Part of the Black Buffalo Trail runs near the picturesque Missouri River chute that cuts off Pelican Island. The rest of the trail loops through a rich stand of trees.

Where • Sioux Passage Park, 17930 Old Jamestown Road, Florissant, to the northeast tip of the park at the Missouri River.

How long • 2.54 miles with two loops.

Surface • Gravel, rock and dirt.

Can be used for • Hiking, bicycling, horseback riding.

Description • The walk is through a thick stand of trees with three restrooms on the northwest side of the trail. At the northern end of the trial, the Sioux Passage Park Nature Trail runs about a half-mile along the river and includes an overlook of the chute spilling into the Missouri River. The turbulence often creates a cafeteria for diving birds and shore birds that feast on shad that are washed over the rocks. The trail was underwater for much of the first half of the summer, so some of the scenery may be altered, especially the "rapids" at the mouth of the chute. Be wary of the edge of the park, which sits on short bluffs, some rocky, some sandy. There have been no reports of the walls collapsing due to erosion, but you don't want to be the first.

Facilities • The park has restrooms along and away from the trail.

Parking • At the entrance and along the roadway to the river.

Pets • On leash; control them when horses or off-road bicycles pass.

Information • Visit alturl.com/vbnqr or call 314-615-7275.