DNR
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Van Meter State Park offers many recreational opportunities and historical interests. While enjoying the pleasing scenery and relaxed setting, visitors can get a closer look by taking a hike on one of six trails.
Lakeview Trail
This .6-mile trail follows along the west shore of Lake
Wooldridge.
Loess Hills Trail
As this two-mile trail circles the lake, it passes through
prairielike areas and dunelike loess soil of the
Pinnacles.
Earthworks Trail
Beginning in the day-use area, this 1.4-mile trail leads to
Native American sites known as the Old Fort and Mound Field.
It also winds up the Pinnacles and through the forested part
of Oumessourit Natural Area.
Cemetery Trail
This .25-mile trail takes visitors to the Vanmeter
(historical spelling) family cemetery, which sits atop a hill
alongside ancient Indian burial mounds.
Oumessourit Wetland Boardwalk Trail
NOTE: A portion of this trail is temporarily closed for repairs. It can be accessed in part from either end but is not a loop. This .75-mile trail allows visitors to experience the wetland
and bottomland forested areas of the Oumessourit Natural
Area.
View comments from hikers of this trail during 2007
Missouri River Overlook
This short trail (.16-mile) follows the ridge of a pinnacle
and ends with a vista of the Missouri River bottoms, the
river’s forested edge, crop fields and oxbow lakes.
- The trails are for foot traffic only.
- Bicycles, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and horses are prohibited on the trails.
- The hiking trails close at sunset.
- Collecting or digging for Indian artifacts is strictly prohibited and enforced.
- Please do not pick the wildflowers.
- Pets must be on leashes at all times.
- Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in parking areas.
