Hike to Bennett Spring Natural Tunnel

Hike to the Bennett Spring Natural Tunnel
Join park staff at the Natural Tunnel Trail head at 8:00 a.m. for a 7.5 mile hke on the first day of the year. The trail begins at the trailhead which is just past park cabins and the 100 million gallon ice cold Bennett Spring. The Natural Tunnel is a 296 feet long tunnel forming an S through a hill. Formed from Gasconade dolomite, the tunnel contains a large gravel creek bed. This adventure will take several hours but will pass through many wildlife habitats, bluffs, streams, and old farm fields. The trail was used by people living in the area from the 1840's to the present. Several bluffs have interesting features, tiny caves, and over hangs that early Native Americans and settler's may have used for shelter. Deer, squirrels, chipmunks, birds, and other wildlife call this park home. All are welcome to participate. This trail consists of natural surfaces including dirt, mud, gravel, shifting rocks, slippery surfaces, exposed roots, and/or down vegetation on the trail. There are step grades/inclines over 10% and water/stream crossings without bridges. It is suggested that participants wear shoes that fit well, dress appropriate for weather, and bring water.