Outdoors

Closely nuzzled against the Katy Trail in Rocheport, Meriwether Café & Bike Shop provides a quietly colorful experience. Managers Brandon and Whitney Vair transformed the building that used to house the Trailside Café into a bright spot set against the green-covered hills of Rocheport.

The Ozarks and Missouri River wilderness regions are particularly captivating. One of the best ways to experience hidden bluffs, elusive creeks, and historic cabins is by horseback.

Life on the river carries its own unique lessons. Here, the senses are on overload in this peaceful environment. There were times when the only sound was of the paddles dipping and lifting in the current.

The Rock Island Trail, connecting the greater Kansas City area to Missouri’s Katy Trail system, is an experience to savor whether you are walking, cycling, or on horseback.

the Missouri Cattleman's Association are supportive, collaborative members of the Missourians for Monarchs. Leslie says Missouri's efforts are among the best collaborations of agricultural and conservationist groups in the nation.

After some investigating, I found Karen Daniels, senior historic preservation specialist for the Missouri Department of Transportation. She’s the expert on the state’s roadside parks.

The Holy Trinity of Conservation takes place at Prairie Star Restoration Farm in Bland on Saturday, June 3. Tickets are $20 for adults, and $10 for students. There is a special reserved evening dinner on June 2 for $100 per person.