Lost Valley Trail Spring

## Overview Lost Valley Trail Spring is a natural spring tucked within the Weldon Spring Conservation Area in Weldon Spring, Missouri. Part of the Missouri Department of Conservation's network of public lands in St. Charles County, this conservation area encompasses rolling terrain, wooded hollows, and seasonal waterways — making it a rewarding destination for hikers, nature lovers, and spring seekers alike. The spring feeds a small stream that flows southward across the Lost Valley Trail, and while the Missouri Conservation website map marks the spring south of the trail, the actual source lies further north — follow the water upstream to find it. The area around the spring is notable for its patches of yellow daffodils, which serve as a natural landmark indicating you're in the right spot. Visitors have historically used the spring as a water source, though water quality can vary with season and conditions. ## Directions 1. Head to the **Weldon Spring Conservation Area** at **1790 State Hwy 94, Defiance, MO 63341**. Park at the **Lost Valley Trail trailhead parking area**. 2. From the trailhead, follow the Lost Valley Trail past a fishing trail spur until you reach the **first major intersection**, where the loop portion of the trail begins. 3. **Cross the river** at the intersection. 4. **Turn left**, continuing along the trail. 5. At the next **fork**, bear **left** again. 6. Continue past **mile marker 1**. Shortly after the marker, look for **yellow daffodils** — they indicate the spring's location. 7. Note: The Missouri Conservation website map shows the spring **south of the trail**, but this marks where the water crosses the path, not the source. To find the actual spring source, **follow the stream north (upstream)** from the trail. ## What to Expect The Lost Valley Trail is a loop trail through the Weldon Spring Conservation Area, offering a moderately easy hike through mixed hardwood forest and creek bottoms. The spring itself is a short detour off the main trail, just past the one-mile mark. The yellow daffodils growing near the spring are a charming and helpful visual cue — especially in early spring when they're in bloom. The spring water flows southward and crosses beneath the trail, but the true source is located to the north. Reaching it requires a brief off-trail walk upstream along the spring's channel. The terrain around the source can be uneven and potentially muddy, particularly after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The conservation area is open year-round and managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation. The trailhead has a designated parking area, and no fees are required. Seasonal hunting may occur in the conservation area, so visitors should check the MDC website for any advisories before heading out. Water flow at the spring may vary depending on recent rainfall and the time of year.