Scenic trails, starlit camping, Bigfoot, and Homecoming
Day Trips for Southeast Missourians
Events, trails, shops, restaurants, museums. All an easy drive away. In your inbox, every Thursday.
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People often ask, "Aren't you afraid you're going to run out of stuff to write about?"
I've been doing this every week for 14 months and I've barely scratched the surface.
The day-trip possibilities for the Se/MO-based just go on and on.
Connecting Three Big Spring Trails
Last weekend, naturalists, astronomers, and hardcore hobby stargazers shared their telescopes and dazzled onlookers with star clusters, Saturn's rings, nebulas, constellation mythology, Russian spy satellites, and the Andromeda galaxy. It was the DarkSky Missouri Festival at Big Spring in Van Buren, MO.
In the morning, we washed away the feeling of awe and insignificance with a stout cup of campfire coffee and checked out some of the trails.
I'm going to share 3 that connect and form a loop.
Big Spring, October 2026
Connect 3 trails to loop behind, up, and over the spring:
Spring Branch Trail ➡️ Stone Ridge Trail ➡️ Slough Trail, for a total of about 2.2 miles.
First, park at the spring to take it in. It's gorgeous AND the best parking lot for this walk in the park.
When you arrive at the cerulean waters, walk toward them. There is a stone trail that starts behind the spring, the Spring Branch Trail. Short and rocky, this trail loops behind the spring, past the caves, and follows the base of the limestone cliff. We followed it until it spit us out onto the road. You're not lost when you hit the road. You have to walk around the bend to find the trailhead for the Stone Ridge Trail on the RIGHT side of the road. You don't even need to cross the road.
The Stone Ridge Trail is a workout. You immediately start to ascend the limestone bluff and walk along the ridgeline above Big Spring. After at least a half mile of sweating, I MEAN WALKING...walking uphill, you start to descend through the hollows. This 1.2-mile trail will spit you out onto the Slough Trail.
Now you're standing at a fork in the road. It's the Slough Trail! Turn right to complete your loop and get back to your car at Big Spring. This half-mile portion is flat and easy breezy.
And voila! You have a loop that takes you around the spring, behind it, and up onto the bluff above it.
Here are the three trails that connect to make a loop. Spring Branch is purple. Stone Ridge is brown, and the Slough Trail is red. I put a star on Big Spring just because it's the star of the show. You can find this map at the Big Spring entrance station.
Camping at Big Spring Campground
If you've never seen the Milky Way galaxy with the naked eye, and/or you have something you need to manifest with a wish on a shooting star, camp at the Big Spring campground.
For stargazing though, I suggest leaving your campsite after dark and going to the spring. There is a large, open field there, perfect for night sky viewing.
We stayed in a tent at a non-electric site which we found to be well-kept and patrolled by park rangers. It was a little people-y. I didn't come all the way out here to listen to your generator, Stan. But some of the sites on the tree line offer a little more space and privacy.
All October, we're running local lore for your unearthly enjoyment. This week, I'm pulling a write-up from the Backroad Weekly archives because it's one of my favorites from last year.
Something Hairy This Way Comes
Last year, a trail-cam on private land west of Poplar Bluff captured a large dark figure, upright, standing mid-creek. The landowner reported the sighting to the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (BFRO), and the story is now logged under “Class A” sightings for the county.
Missouri’s folklore paints a long pattern of Bigfoot-esque sightings that refuse to stop. As of today, the Show-Me State has logged 166 reports statewide just since the BFRO started keeping records. The most famous was in 1972, when a teenager in Louisiana, MO, swore she saw a hairy 7-foot creature clutching a dead dog - an encounter that became national news as the legend of Mo Mo, the Missouri Monster. And just across the river, Southern Illinois has its own folk icon, the Big Muddy Monster of Murphysboro, complete with case files from the 70s.
But closer to home, Southeast Missouri has logged mysterious critter sightings for decades. For example:
Could be a bear. 🤷♀️ Could be nerves, shadows, or stories getting taller each time they're told. Either way, this campfire legend keeps turning up right here at home, not just in old tales, but in contemporary times, too.
If you're bored on Halloween night and need an internet rabbit hole to dive down while you're waiting on trick or treaters, comb through the Missouri Bigfoot Field Researchers' reports.
SIGHTING: Tiny, round, big head-ed, and adorable. I'm not talking about Danny Devito. Ladies and gentlemen, it's the Carolina Chickadee. Spotted flitting around the Big Spring campground last Saturday.
TRAVEL RADIO: Last Friday, KRCU Public Radio let me preach to the masses about the land of pink boulders: Castor River Shut-ins.
VIDEO SHORT: The video is from summer, but Castor River Shut-ins is even more gorgeous in the fall.
REVEALING MY SOURCES: History lovers should keep an eye on the Stars and Stripes Museum's events page. Today, for example, they're hosting a talk on Civil War guerilla warfare.
Big Ol' Block Party
Wikipedia is trying to tell me that homecoming is a tradition of welcoming back alumni to celebrate an organization through a week/weekend of events.
But I've been asking local folks what homecoming is to them (I genuinely did not know its origins or meaning) and the majority responded, "It's a party!," or "It's a parade!" In third place: "It's a football game and tailgating!"
Alumni or not, football fan or not, SEMO Homecoming has evolved into a community block party.
Everyone's invited to head to Cape to soak in the atmosphere of electric homecoming happenings:
Homecoming Parade - Line up down Broadway from the West End intersection down to the Main St intersection. See elaborate floats and experience the power of the SEMO Marching Band. 9:30am, Saturday, Oct 17
Tailgating - Ok, so it's way too late to try to reserve a spot to tailgate with your own tailgate. But you can stop by the Whelking Alumni Center parking lot after the parade and ride that big, communal tailgate wave.
The football game! - There's a game, too! SEMO vs WIU (Western Illinois University). Kick off at 2pm on Saturday, October 17.
SEMO Women's Soccer Match - The weekend wraps with a SEMO Women's Soccer match vs Lindenwood at Houck Field at 1pm on Sunday, October 18.
Saturday will be an exhilarating day to be in Cape, when the streets are lined with people in celebration mode. Even if you're not a tailgate/party kind of person, it's a great day to hit up Cape's downtown, check out the Riverfront Market, and bop around the shops and restaurants, soaking in the atmosphere.
Broadway Blues
Before there was I-55, there was U.S. Route 61, the Blues Highway...the road that carried American music traditions from southern stages to northern ears. We're proud to say Cape Girardeau was a crossroads in this great music migration. Many talented bands have graced our stages.
VisitCape has partnered with Scout Hall to remind us of our place in music history and keep the tradition alive. St. Louis' Kingdom Brothers will perform on Cape's historic Broadway Street Friday, October 23.
Want to share an upcoming event with 2,300+ Southeast Missourians looking for things to do? Read more about how to add an event to Backroad Weekly's 'This Weekend's Happenings'.
This Weekend’s Happenings
Fri, Oct 16
Tribute to Fleetwood Mac, Jackson, MO - All the hits. Food & drink vendors serving up the goods. Family & pet friendly. Clean bathrooms on site. Bring your chair, your blanket, and your cooler to this free show.
Book Bingo, Jackson, MO - Think you know your books? Test your knowledge at the Jackson Library's book bingo. 3-4pm
Night of Flute and Guitar, Cape Girardeau, MO - Shuffle into Shuck Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Free Event. An evening of music featuring the flute and guitar.
Masquerade Ball and Waltz Lesson, Cape Girardeau, MO - Cape Ballroom is turning 11 years old and they're celebrating with a masquerade ball and dance lesson. Masks and formal attire are encouraged. Dress up and learn to waltz! $5 cash.
Fall Market, Du Quoin, IL - "Boutique Clothing, Children's Clothing, shoes, hats, purses, accessories, soap, candles, hand picked craft vendors and so much more..." 4-8pm. $5. Kids free.
River City Ghost Tours, Paducah, KY - "Unmask the chilling tales that lie beneath the surface of this historic land."
Sat, Oct 17
Underground Comedy, Cape Girardeau, MO - Award-winning comedians grace (disgrace?) the stage at Cape G's Scout Hall.
Cape Riverfront Market, Cape Girardeau, MO - Shop locally grown, homemade, and handmade goods. 8am-12pm.
Dresses to Die For, Cape Girardeau, MO - Learn the customs and traditions of the Victorian-era funeral and mourning experience at Cape's historic Glenn House. $5 donation recommended. 1-4pm.
Homecoming Parade, Cape Girardeau, MO - Line up down Broadway from the West End intersection down to the Main St intersection. See elaborate floats and experience the power of the SEMO Marching Band. 9:30am
All-request Piano Show feat. Joy Brooker, Cape Girardeau, MO - All songs are requested by the audience, and viral sensation, Joy Brooker, passes out her comedic entertainment and maybe even some prizes.
Sikeston Downtown Farmers' Market, Sikeston, MO - Every Saturday until October 24 from 7:30am to sellout (usually around 11am or earlier).
Old-Fashioned Fall Festival, Bloomfield, MO - Civil War-era demonstrations, hands-on crafts, and living history at the museum.
Ozark Heritage Festival, Piedmont, MO - Craft vendors, food, parade, carnival, car show, dog show, bb gun competition, antique tractor display and a rock, paper, scissors championship.
Boco Saves Fun Day Fundraiser, Marble Hill, MO - Vendors, kayak races, chili, and good times to raise funds for local animal rescue.
Harvest Season Winery Tour, Ste. Genevieve, MO - "Chateau Sainte Genevieve opens its doors for free tours during harvest season, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at their grape-growing and winemaking process. 21+."
1860s Children's Day, Charleston, MO - "Learn what life was like in the 1860s. This free event will feature interactive activities for kids, as well as self-guided tours of the Hunter-Dawson House. Everyone is welcome. No need to register."
Guided Hike along the Ozark Trail's Rocky Creek, Winona, MO- Join the National Park crew for a3-mile fall hike! The path will take us through a variety of Ozark ecosystems, with opportunities to see some unique wildlife. Hikers will learn about the history of Klepzig Mill, the ancient geology along Rocky Creek, and some native plants and their practical uses.
Vulture Fest, Makanda, IL - Live music, local art, food, and shopping.
Fall Market, Du Quoin, IL - "Boutique Clothing, Children's Clothing, shoes, hats, purses, accessories, soap, candles, handpicked craft vendors and so much more..." 10am-3pm. $5. Kids free.
Fort Massac Encampment, Metropolis, IL - This is my FAVORITE historic event in the area. It's like our own little Renaissance fair, except it's 1700s U.S. history instead of medieval Europe.
Guided Hike at Ferne Clyffe State Park, Johnson County, IL - This hike is free and open to the public. This will be a moderately difficult hike, approximately 4 miles in length, 3-4 hours hiking time. Beautiful park. Good time guaranteed.
Chester Fall Festival, Chester, IL - Saturday has the staples: live music, food, drinks, and carnival rides, plus a market, a parade at 11am, and a burger eating contest.
River City Ghost Tours, Paducah, KY - "Venture, if you dare, into the shadowy heart of Paducah"
Sun, Oct 18
Haunted History of Cape, Cape Girardeau, MO - This walking tour sees the oldest side of Cape: Water, Main, and Spanish Streets. 7pm. $30 per person or $50 per couple.
Dresses to Die For, Cape Girardeau, MO - Learn the customs and traditions of the Victorian-era funeral and mourning experience at Cape's historic Glenn House. $5 donation recommended. 1-4pm.
SEMO Women's Soccer Match, Cape Girardeau, MO - The homecoming weekend wraps with a SEMO Women's Soccer match vs Lindenwood at Houck Field at 1pm
Horsepower Happy Hour - Oktoberfest, Cape Girardeau, MO - Free and open to the public. German cars, food trucks, and beer at PARC Motor Club!
Fort Massac Encampment, Metropolis, IL - It's a little like stepping onto a movie set if they're making a movie about the 18th century. This is my FAVORITE historic event in the area. You don't have to be a big history buff to enjoy it.
Vulture Fest, Makanda, IL - Live music, local art, food, and shopping.
Chester Fall Festival, Chester, IL - Sunday has the staples: live music, food, drinks, and carnival rides, plus it'll close the day with a fireworks display.
Plan Ahead The Fun You Can't Improvise
Spirits of the Parkland, Park Hills, MO - an evening of local folklore, eerie history, and unexplained tales. This is a fundraiser for Cemetery Preservation efforts in St. Francois County. $12. 7pm. Oct 23
Full Moon Kayaking & Canoeing - Hunter's Moon, Ullin, IL - Paddle through an ancient cypress-tupelo swamp by moonlight. One of Southern Illinois' most unique guided tours. Last moonlight tour of the season. $65. Oct 24
First Ascent Day: Discover Climbing with the EMCA, French Village, MO - "This is designed for total beginners, families, local businesses, and anyone curious about climbing. Free. Experienced climbers can help you take your first steps on real rock. No experience necessary. All ages welcome. Oct 24. 11am"
Deja Vu Spirit Reunion, Ste. Genevieve, MO - "Explore Missouri's oldest cemetery (European descent) and experience the stories of early pioneers of Ste. Genevieve by lantern light." Less spooky. More educational. $5-10. Oct 24. 4:30-7pm.
Pucker up for Persimmons, Cape Girardeau, MO - Learn how to identify persimmon trees and harvest the fruit. Finish off with a taste test! Oct 27, 6-7:30pm.
Practical Magic, Cape Girardeau, MO - The Subterranean Film Society selected a supernatural Sandra Bullock for this month's viewing. Oct. 28
Paint it Black, Cape Girardeau, MO - Part of the "Pour Decisions" series put on by SEMO's Continuing Education. Choose a spooky scene to paint by numbers. No experience required. Includes all supplies, a glass of wine or mocktail, and light appetizers. $49. 6-8:30pm. Thursday, Oct 29.
Witches' Night Out in Uptown Jackson,Jackson, MO - Dress in your best witchy getup and enjoy an evening of shopping, treats, and exclusive deals. October 29. 5-8pm.
A Spooky Little Night Hike, Cape Girardeau, MO - "Join us at the Cape Nature Center for a night hike around our trails with headlamps and learn about nocturnal creatures... Participants can expect a 1–2-mile hike on gravel trails with areas of steep up and downhill sections. Participants must be 18+ years old. 7:30pm. Must register to attend. Registration opens tomorrow, Oct 16. Event is Friday, Oct 30.
Run South Cape 5K Run & Walk, Cape Girardeau, MO - Slap on your costume and get active for a good cause. Oct 31.
Tunnel Hill 100/50, Vienna IL - Maybe you're not an ultrarunner but you're fascinated by the women and men of steel who run ultras, and you want to volunteer to witness the spectacle. This race, right across the bridge from us is the home of 5 world records! Nov 14
The Meandering Turkey, Jackson, MO - ~5.5 miles of hilly, rooty single track. $45 if you sign up before Oct. 31. Limited to 100 runners and fills up fast! Nov 22. 1:30pm.
For each event, you’ll find more info at the link. *Because these events are upcoming, they have not been vetted. That would require a time machine, and we don't have the funds. Party at your own discretion.