Location: Approximately 8 miles east of Fredericktown. From Fredericktown court square. go east 1 block, turn left on Lincoln Dr. go 1 mile to 00/72 junction . Turn right (east) on 72, follow 72 to "J" (approx 2 miles), turn left on "J", go 4.4 miles to "W" turn right on "W". "W" will turn from blacktop to gravel at this point you are now on Madison county rd 208. (From "J" & "W" intersection to the Conservation area sign is 2.3 miles.) At the fork in the road turn left go .9 miles to parking area.  Click Here for Map

Distance: 1 mile loop

Difficulty: Fairly Easy

Details: This trail is located on the Castor River. There are many easy access points to the shut-ins, with beautiful scenery. The last half of the trail takes you through some very nice wooded areas. Parents should use care when taking children on this trail because some areas of the shut-ins are very steep. The trail is also somewhat hard to follow. With close supervision would be a good family trail and a nice leisurely day hike.

Please be aware that hunting is allowed in this area!

More Information: Missouri Dept. of Conservation Atlas, LocalHikes Review, OzarkBackpacking.com Review