A few miles east of Columbia Regional Airport, Cedar Creek makes a hairpin turn on its way to join the Missouri River. Within that narrow curve, a ridge of Mississippian limestone, known as the Devil's Backbone, offers spectacular views of the Creek Valley.
Having never visited the site ourselves, we headed east on Englewood Road from the northeast corner of the Airport. After passing through the town of Englewood, we continued another mile or so to Backbone Road which leads southward to the ridge.
Once there, we enjoyed broad views of Cedar Creek Valley and watched as a flock of turkey vultures, joined by a lone bald eagle, soared along the cliffs. As spectacular as the views were today they are no doubt more expansive during the winter months when the deciduous leaves have fallen. We will certainly return to find out!
