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Dogwood Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

Dogwood Trail

Easy

4.7

(7313)

19,025

hikers

Dogwood Trail

Q: Where can I park for the Dogwood Trail?

Parking is available within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park . Look for designated parking areas near the trailhead for convenient access to the route.

Q: Is the Dogwood Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on this trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

Q: When is the best time to hike this trail?

The best time to hike this trail is in the spring, typically April to May, when the dogwood trees are in full bloom, offering a spectacular display of white flowers. Fall also provides beautiful foliage. The trail is accessible year-round, but spring offers the most iconic scenery.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to access Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park?

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park or hike the Dogwood Trail.

Q: Is this trail suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, with its easy difficulty rating, gradual elevation changes (around 58 meters up and down), and relatively short distance of about 3.5 kilometers, this trail is very suitable for beginners and families with children. It's a great option for a relaxed outdoor experience.

Q: What is the terrain like on the Dogwood Trail?

The trail features natural surfaces, including dirt and potentially some gravel or shifting rock. You can expect undulating ground with gradual elevation changes, characteristic of a peaceful forest setting within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park .

Q: What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see?

As its name suggests, the trail is known for its abundance of dogwood trees, especially beautiful when in bloom. You'll hike through diverse forest habitats, enjoying the natural beauty of Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park .

Q: What kind of wildlife or plants might I encounter?

You'll be walking through a rich forest environment, so keep an eye out for various bird species, including soaring birds. The flora includes the namesake dogwood trees, and other native plants typical of oak-hickory woodlands.

Q: Does the trail connect with other paths?

Yes, the route intersects with other trails within the park. You'll find sections that overlap with the Equestrian Trail, White Connector 1, and the Woodbine Trail, offering opportunities to extend or vary your hike.

Q: Is the Dogwood Trail a loop?

Yes, the Dogwood Trail is designed as a loop, allowing you to experience the full scenery without retracing your steps. The total loop distance is approximately 3.5 kilometers.

00:58

3.52km

60m

Hiking

The Dogwood Trail in Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park offers a dynamic hiking experience, winding through a rich tapestry of forest habitats. You'll traverse varied terrain, from dry ridge slopes where chert rock is visible to lush, moist valleys and dense woodlands. The route features several steep inclines…

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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284 m

Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park

Highlight • Forest

This public recreation area features a network of walking trails that lead you around well-maintained woodland that features creeks and picnic areas. There is plentiful birdlife in this park, including …

Tip by

1.20 km

Dogwood Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

This is a looped forest trail that explores the Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park in Missouri. It's considered an easy loop and is almost entirely flat, so perfect if you're completing with the family.

Tip by

3.52 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.22 km

239 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.22 km

266 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Wednesday 15 July

34°C

21°C

23 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park for the Dogwood Trail?

Parking is available within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park. Look for designated parking areas near the trailhead for convenient access to the route.

Is the Dogwood Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on this trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

When is the best time to hike this trail?

The best time to hike this trail is in the spring, typically April to May, when the dogwood trees are in full bloom, offering a spectacular display of white flowers. Fall also provides beautiful foliage. The trail is accessible year-round, but spring offers the most iconic scenery.

Are there any fees or permits required to access Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park?

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park or hike the Dogwood Trail.

Is this trail suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, with its easy difficulty rating, gradual elevation changes (around 58 meters up and down), and relatively short distance of about 3.5 kilometers, this trail is very suitable for beginners and families with children. It's a great option for a relaxed outdoor experience.

What is the terrain like on the Dogwood Trail?

The trail features natural surfaces, including dirt and potentially some gravel or shifting rock. You can expect undulating ground with gradual elevation changes, characteristic of a peaceful forest setting within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park.

What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see?

As its name suggests, the trail is known for its abundance of dogwood trees, especially beautiful when in bloom. You'll hike through diverse forest habitats, enjoying the natural beauty of Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park.

What kind of wildlife or plants might I encounter?

You'll be walking through a rich forest environment, so keep an eye out for various bird species, including soaring birds. The flora includes the namesake dogwood trees, and other native plants typical of oak-hickory woodlands.

Does the trail connect with other paths?

Yes, the route intersects with other trails within the park. You'll find sections that overlap with the Equestrian Trail, White Connector 1, and the Woodbine Trail, offering opportunities to extend or vary your hike.

Is the Dogwood Trail a loop?

Yes, the Dogwood Trail is designed as a loop, allowing you to experience the full scenery without retracing your steps. The total loop distance is approximately 3.5 kilometers.

What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

For this easy, relatively short hike, comfortable walking shoes, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather are recommended. Don't forget your camera, especially if visiting during spring bloom!