JEFFERSON CITY, MO, MARCH 18, 2022 – Team members at Prairie State Park invite the public to join on a Guided Bison Saunter from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 2, starting at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center.
"What is a 'saunter'?" you ask. According to Merriam-Webster, saunter means "to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner: STROLL" (that is, to walk at a slower pace to take in all the surroundings). The public is invited to get outside and experience that prairie feeling from centuries past. Prairie State Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, which once covered 33% of Missouri. Now, less than one-half of 1% remains.
Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. April weather can be unpredictable, so please prepare for it. Participants should bring water and snacks, wear sturdy footwear and dress appropriately.
Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, except for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People trails. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your leashed pet to the park’s campground and picnic area, but must follow Missouri State Parks’ pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.
Registration for this event is required, and there is a limit of 25 participants. Call the park at 417-843-6711 to register and get additional information about this event.
The public is strongly encouraged to follow social-distancing guidelines and be proactive in protecting themselves and others.
Prairie State Park is located at 128 NW 150th Lane in Mindenmines.
For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.