A relatively small but fascinating park in Augusta, Missouri, Klondike Park is centered on an abandoned silica sand quarry. Paved, gravel and earthen trails lead throughout the preserve, offering views of the quarry lake (bordered by white sand beaches and cliffs of silica), leading to rustic campsites, circling a wetland, crossing a forested hillside and climbing to bluffs that offer a sweeping view of the Missouri River Valley.
While the quarry site is especially unique, we encountered a pleasing mix of wildlife as well. Chorus frogs called from the wetland shallows, eastern phoebes, just back from the south, sang their namesake tune from trees near the lake, turkey vultures sailed along the bluffs and a lone bald eagle soared overhead.
Though we chose not to climb a steep path onto the bluffs, we enjoyed our visit on this mild, sunny morning and encourage others to experience the beautiful geology. Also of interest is the Park's Creative Arts Center; call ahead regarding its programs and hours of operation which vary through the seasons.
