Hiking Busiek State Park in the Snow: Southwest Missouri Forest Comes Alive in Winter with Eagles and Snow


Winter may be the dullest season to hike Busiek. However, give it a little snow, and the hike suddenly becomes magical. Not to mention, Missouri eagle watchers can rejoice that eagles have been spotted soaring around the boundaries of Busiek and I spotted one just a half mile north of Busiek on my drive to the state conservation area. It makes you proud to see an eagle soaring high.

As the first snows came, I hiked the entire western side of Busiek, which includes the purple trail with its many switchbacks, the red trail at the rear of the park, and the white trail with its long climb. It's important to note, if you decide to hike Busiek in the winter, be sure to bring your waterproof hiking boots. There are numerous stream crossings in the park on the West side that are shallow enough not to cause your toes any pain.

Snow brings a different challenge. Busiek's steep climbs are tough in the snow. As well, small streams of water running off the old knobs create icy rocks that often are covered in snow. I know I don't have to tell you what that means, so just be careful. I recommend a walking stick to help you maintain your balance and help you trek up the steep climbs. The stick will give you something solid to help you ascend to the top of the knobs. I use a Bass Pro Shops Mountaineer Trekking pole, which is a quality pole that has inner springs in it to help absorb shock and missteps.

If you have cabin fever and have some very warm clothes and waterproof hiking boots, give Busiek a try. The snow really highlights the beauty of the area. Monday's hike totaled just over eight miles. The following is the elevation profile of the three climbs on the western side of Busiek. The eight miles total approximately 1500 feet of vertical climb.