By:
Submission
Small Park, 592 steps to super scenic overlook. Steps are getting old, close to needing replacement.
Hiked up the approximately 600 step, Riverview Trail. Majestic views! No sticker needed for this rustic park. If you're on the Riverview Trail, I suggest a hiking stick. There are a few rickety steps. Enjoy!
This is a baby state park with exactly two things to do: 1- have a picnic in the very shaded picnic area; 2- ascend 450 vertical feet via an aging wood staircase of many, many stairs.
This hike is strenuous and should not be attempted by those with mobility challenges or balance issues - the stairs are steep going both up and down and they are situated close to a steep side of Mount Charity and there is only railing at certain sections.
That said, the views are amazing and worth the effort of the hike. Seeing the Mississippi River valley from this vantage point is impressive. There are two separate look out points to view the valley - neither have any guard rails at the edge to help prevent falling over the edge.
This is an “add-on stop” state park to visit in conjunction with other state parks in the area (Whitewater, Frontenac) and not a destination on its own.
I went to this park thinking it was an easy hike. I was surprised to read it was level: Difficult! And OMG! The first few steps are not bad it's when you're like 5 minutes before getting to the top that hurt! Lol My 7 year old son did awesome! I would recommend using hiking poles. I shared one pole with my son, and he was ahead of us the entire time. He enjoyed the hike. Bring water, hiking pikes, comfortable hiking shoes, and your camera. The view was awesome. We hiked this in 30-degree overcast weather. It took us 35 minutes to get to the top and 17 minutes to descend. Watch out for some loose and wobbly steps. Overall! It was fun. Will be visiting again. The outhouse restroom was locked.
The sweeping views of the Mississippi River from the top of the bluff are well worth the climb. It is a moderately difficult climb of about 550 steps to the top but is very doable if you are in ok health. The view makes this park. Some of wooded steps are beginning to age and lean. The park is just a one trail climb with a parking area with a few picnic tables. A better day use/picnic area at the bottom parking area would help. It would be better suited as a State wayside rest or recreation area designation than a Park. It is a very similar set up to Inspiration Peak but has better views.
