MPF Field Trip: Valley View Glades Natural Area Hike — Registration Full

Registration for this event is full. Please email outreach@moprairie.org to be added to our waiting list.

Join Mike Leahy with the Missouri Department of Conservation for a special MPF field trip exploration of Ozark dolomite glades at Valley View Glades Natural Area near Hillsboro. Described by some biologists as xeric prairies, we will explore the natural history of the glades and what makes them both similar and unique from tallgrass prairie. 

Participants will learn about how geology, soils, past climates, topography, and human land uses have shaped these unique Ozark natural communities. Participants will also learn about glade indicator plant species and some species common to both glades and Missouri prairies in addition to some interesting fauna associated with these sites. 

Cost: Free

Where: Meet at the Valley View Glades Natural Area parking lot. Parking is limited so please try to carpool. The area is approximately one mile east of Morse Mill on Highway B. See the links below for maps and directions:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/3f9yUrvmQo9xxwR38

https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/valley-view-glades-natural-area

What to expect: heat, sun, rocky ground, hike about 3.5 miles (moderately steep, rocky), possibly annoying invertebrates (e.g., gnats, ticks, chiggers).

What to bring: hiking boots, hiking stick, sun protection, water and hydration supplies, food/snacks, outdoor clothes, and insect repellent.

Minimum of 10 participants, maximum of 25 participants

For those who are part of the Grow Native! Professional Certification Program (GNPCP), this event counts as 3 CEUs. See details about earning GNPCP CEUs here.

Photo by Edgar Denison of Fremont’s leatherflower (Clematis fremontii).