Most people have a love-hate relationship with winter. The bitterly cold temperatures, scraping our car windows on a freezing morning, and dressing in layers before maneuvering our way along slick roads isn’t exactly fun. However, – yep, there’s a however – there’s just something so breathtakingly beautiful about the landscape when it’s dusted in snow. And a frozen waterfall? Awe-inspiring. Step into a virtual ice palace when you visit this natural area in Missouri.

Bundle up for an enchanting adventure that will lead you through a beautiful wonderland of snow and ice this winter at Hickory Canyons Natural Area in New Offensburg.

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A fun, family-friendly destination all year round, the Missouri natural area is particularly pretty during the coldest season of the year.

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Spanning more than 1,090 acres, the natural area features everything you’d want in a nature experience - flowing streams, towering trees, and even wet-weather waterfalls.

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Those wet-weather waterfalls, in fact, transform into icy masterpieces when the temperatures plummet.

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If you’ve never seen a waterfall become a sheet of ice, you’re in for a treat.

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For an even more unique experience, walk behind the frozen waterfall. You’ll discover an abundance of photo-worthy moments during your adventure at this Missouri natural area.

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To get the most out of your experience, follow one (or both) of the two hiking trails - the Western Trail and the Eastern Trail. Both are considered moderate.

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However, the challenge is worth it to catch a glimpse of the sandstone cliffs encased in ice and the waterfalls frozen in mid-tumble.

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Learn more about this natural area on the Hickory Canyons Natural Area website.

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Have you been to this natural area in Missouri during the winter? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! For more wintertime fun, how about going on a scenic hike? Here are seven of the best winter hikes in Missouri.

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Address: Hickory Canyons Natural Area, New Offenburg, MO 63670, USA