Opossum Track Trail

Opossum Track Trail traverses a section of the 68-acre Washington State Park Hardwood Natural Area, an area of land set aside for protection because of its natural beauty. Along sections of the trail, you may notice depressions in the earth which seem un-natural. Prior to the park’s construction, this area was prospected for a mineral called barite, locally known as tiff. The depressions are the remains of those prospecting operations. Barite is used in the production of drilling mud and paint. As you hike along this scenic trail, you may also enjoy several breath-taking views of the Big River valley, particularly near the Civilian Conservation Corps overlook. The trail meanders through a typical Missouri oak-hickory hardwood forest, abounding with wildflowers, songbirds, native wildlife, majestic trees and trickling water winding its way along an ancient creek bed. This trail is moderately difficult. Along the trail, you may encounter slippery conditions, rocks and roots sticking up in the trail’s natural surface, steep grades and creek crossings without bridges.