Bothwell Lodge State Historical Site
About 6 miles north of Sedalia just off of Route 65 sits a circa 1900 castle on top of a hill. What used to be the private recreational retreat of lawyer John Homer Bothwell is now a public park for everyone to enjoy. Today, visitors can tour the 31-room lodge and explore the surrounding grounds at the Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site. Fido is welcome to sniff around in the outdoor areas of this 247-acre property, so bring your best friend along for a pleasant walk in the woods!
Constructed with native rock from the estate grounds, the lodge is a great example of extravagant living in the Midwest during the early 20th century. Except for service animals, four-legged visitors are not allowed inside historic site buildings, so someone from your pawty needs to watch Fido if you're going to check out the lodge. Otherwise, skip the tour and head straight to the trails.
The Stonyridge Trail, which follows the original driveway built by Bothwell, passes by a rock quarry, a stone gazebo, and a three-sided stone shelter. If you and your pooch venture onto the trail spurs, you'll cross two small footbridges as well. Though the Stonyridge Trail is only half a mile long, the surface is rugged, so you and Fido may encounter rocks, roots, and occasional water.
The park's newest path, the Radiant Trail, was completed in 2006 by volunteers. Stretching 3.2 miles, it loops around the eastern half of the site and intersects the park road twice. Halfway along the trail, you and your pup will find a bench next to a tranquil pond—a furrific spot for resting and taking in your surroundings.
Wherever you go in the park, always keep your furry friend on a 10-foot leash and clean up after them. Don't forget to bring your own plastic bags and pack a lunch to enjoy in the picnic area. A woofderful time awaits at the Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site!
