Are dogs allowed on Swimming Deer Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Swimming Deer Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Swimming Deer Trail?

No, Swimming Deer Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Swimming Deer Trail?

Swimming Deer Trail is rated moderate. It is 3.4 miles long with 535 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Missouri trail conditions

ModerateLoop

Missouri

Swimming Deer Trail

Bonne Terre, Missouri

3.4 mi

Distance

535 ft

Elev. Gain

Loop

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

This trail has a steep climb at the beginning, but is fairly level overall. There are rocks in the trail that can be difficult to navigate. There are two wooden bridges to cross. There is a deep sink hole along the trail. The Swimming Deer Trail follows the Big River for one mile. Hikers will be able to see outstanding bluff overlooks along the Big River. There are scars left on the land from when settlers dug shallow surface mines to look for lead. This area was so heavily logging that hardly any trees were left standing.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:202 ft

Max:238 ft

163 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.