Smith's Island Nature Trail

When you stumble upon Smith's Island Nature Trail, you'll find a lush environment with habitats filled with wetlands, river access, forests, and lots of open green space in the Smith Island Recreation Area. The diverse area brings out lots of visitors and accommodates to all thanks to its 5 feet of room on the trail, and well-marked areas to use and enjoy.

The main parking area for the trail and area is on the main island, right on the water edge. With water fountains, restrooms, picnic tables, and trash bins, the area is perfect for resting and picnicking before you walk with your pup. There's even a boat ramp and fishing area to use. Hikers will cross over a small canal over a metal pedestrian bridge, which exits onto the open green island. You will be walking on an asphalt part of the trail for the first third of the mile, where you'll pass by a well maintained open field with extra gazebos and picnic tables. To the right of the trail, hikers can enjoy the sights of the Mississippi River and the sights of a waterfall flowing from the river's dam. 

The trail follows along the northern edge of the island, where it passes by the wetland cove of the northern island, and over a natural gravel bridge. After passing over the bridge, you'll enter vibrant green forests, with a dense area that provides complete shade around the trail. The rest of the island is completely forested, with short access points along the trail to the river along natural beaches. The trail loops and turns around at this point and connect back to the natural bridge. You can return back to the parking area at this point, or stay and enjoy the quiet forest.

The trail is large and offers other activities like jogging, snowshoeing in the winter, and bicycling. No matter what you decide to come and do though, you and Fido will be welcomed with open arms and allowed into a trail where you can hike, walk, or hob in peace, surrounded by nature.