Pond Trail

Pond Trail is a short, easy hike in Missouri, about half a mile from Saint Joseph. It is an out-and-back route of roughly 1.1 miles, with a total elevation gain of about 71 feet, so the climb is gentle and the trail stays close to the same level for most of the way. The trail starts at about 988 feet and reaches a high point of 1008 feet before returning to the start. The steepest stretch comes early on, around 0.14 miles in, with a grade of about 5 percent. Bikes and horses are not allowed on this trail. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station in Saint Joseph show October highs around 68°F with lows near 43°F, and May highs around 76°F. That station sits about 190 feet lower than the trail, so temperatures on the trail run a little cooler. The Marsh Trail is just 0.1 mile away, and the Ridge Trail is about 0.3 mile off. For time on the water, Mace Creek, a canoeing spot, is about 9.4 miles away.