MDC to host 32nd annual Poosey Conservation Area fall tour Sunday

The 32nd annual Poosey Conservation Area fall tour gives visitors a chance to drive on roads not normally open to the public. The tour road winds up and down hills and includes some creek crossings. Photo courtesy Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation.

Chillicothe, Mo. – Trees turning crimson or gold and roads winding uphill and down will be featured at the 32nd annual Poosey Conservation Area fall tour on Sunday.

Visitors can also fish, paddle a kayak, spot some birds, or scout hunting sites. ‘Recreational Opportunities’ is the theme for this year’s tour at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) area northwest of Chillicothe in Livingston County.

The Poosey area has trails, lakes, and ponds. Hikers can follow a trail to the Panther’s Den along the tour route. Anglers can try their luck at Pike’s Lake or Indian Creek Community Lake or one of the area’s ponds.

Besides autumn scenery, visitors can stop at conservation exhibits along the route. Photo courtesy Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation.

According to a press release, tour visitors can drive on roads not normally open to the public for vehicles. The fall tour leads through rugged hills and a historical site once known as the Poosey community. MDC will have conservation education stations along the route. Visitors can talk with staff about forest and grassland management, wildlife habitat, and tips for improving fishing in ponds and lakes.

The tour begins at Pike’s Lake. An entrance to the lake is reached off Route W and County Road 502. Gates open at noon and the last vehicle will be allowed to begin at 4 p.m. on Sunday. Gravel roads are graded but the route involves steep slopes and crossings in low areas. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.

For tour information, contact MDC Resource Forester Samantha Anderson, (660) 646-6122.

Click here for maps and information about Poosey Conservation Area.