CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Explore an underground world full of fascinating — and slightly creepy — creatures, and discover why Missouri’s caves are among the most interesting mysteries beneath our feet at Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Trek-N-Treat from 2 to 4 p.m. on Oct. 18 at Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center.

Did you know southeast Missouri has a hidden world of white cavefish, cave salamanders, grotto sculpin, and, of course, bats? This Halloween season, MDC invites families of all ages to explore the Trek-N-Treat trail, featuring educational creature characters, interactive games, and crafts to guide participants through the “darkness” to reveal how cool and important caves really are.

Participants are encouraged to dress in costume and bring a Halloween bucket — MDC’s costumed cave characters will be ready to hand out treats along the trail. While the Trek-N-Treat trail spans about a quarter mile and takes roughly 30 minutes to complete, it is designed to be family-friendly; the terrain may be uneven or grassy but is generally suitable for sport strollers.

“Caves may seem spooky, but they are full of life, wonder, and unique species you won’t see anywhere else,” said Alex Holmes, MDC Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center assistant manager. “We look forward to welcoming families underground, inspiring curiosity, and showing why Missouri’s subsurface wildlife is worth celebrating.”

This event is free to attend, and registration is not required.

Stay Connected

Questions about events can be emailed to MDC Cape Nature Center Manager Laci Prucinsky at Laci.Prucinsky@mdc.mo.gov.

The Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center sends program registration reminders and updates to those who sign up by texting “MDC Nature” to 468311. An online subscription is also available to “sign up for updates” at www.mdc.mo.gov. A variety of updates are available at this option, but Cape Girardeau specific updates are available under facility updates and news for southeast region.

Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center is located at 2289 County Park Dr. in Cape Girardeau, and is open Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. White Oak Trace Trails are open daily, from sunrise to 10 p.m.

MDC is committed to accessibility at all of its nature centers, regional facilities, and conservation areas. To request an ADA accommodation for participation in MDC programs, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/accessibility