Bloody Hill Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Spring · Views · Wildflowers

The primary purpose of Wilson's Creek National Battlefield is to preserve the history of a Civil War battle. While it is a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors, it is important to remember that numerous people suffered brutal wounds and died horrible deaths in this location. Take time to learn a bit about the history of this place while enjoying it.

The east part of the trail runs along a meadow and is essentially mowed grass. At times, the grass can get ankle or calf high.

This trail is used by both runners and others interested in Civil War history—expect some visitors to not know trail etiquette.

This trail connects the Bloody Hill historic site with the old Wire Road Trail. The trail is relatively easy to run, with one mildly steep climb/descent on the east that will be difficult for those not used to running (this is the reason for the easy/intermediate rating—it is otherwise an easy trail to run). The trail winds through the location that was the heart of the Battle of Wilson's Creek, one of the highest-casualty Civil War battles west of the Mississippi. Interpretive signs offer information about the battle along the way. There are a couple of displays of cannons off to the side of the trail and a couple of scenic vistas.

The area is a mix of forest and meadows. There are some wildflowers in spring through summer. Expect turtles in the spring and lots of squirrels in the fall. Deer are common. Watch for snakes and lizards.

The branch off of the trail toward the middle takes you to a marker where General Lyon was killed on a glade. This used to loop back around to the rest of the trail, but is now blocked off to protect the habitat of the Missouri Bladderpod.