Missouri · Hiking

Red Trail

7.7 mi
round trip
1,763 ft
climb
1,105 ft
high point
Out and back
route
Mar–Jun, Sep–Nov
best months

Red Trail is a 7.7-mile out-and-back hike in Missouri, about a mile from the town of Westfield. The route climbs from a low point of 514 feet to a high of 1,105 feet, with a total elevation gain of 1,763 feet over the round trip. The trail is rated expert, and the steepest stretch comes at about 6.3 miles in, where the grade reaches 37 percent. The trail is long and steep, and the climb is roughly double the one-way gain of 880 feet. Plan for about six hours on foot, and know that the route is open to horses. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station show October highs around 70°F with lows near 43°F, while July highs reach about 89°F. Mill Pond Trail lies about 1.7 miles away. Paddlers can head to the Little Niangua River, about 4.5 miles off, or Thomas Creek and Mountain Creek, both within about 10 miles.