Sugar Loaf Rock

Sugar Loaf Rock, historically located adjacent to the Missouri River, is a significant landmark with ties to the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The rock is described in William Clark’s journals from June 1804, where he noted a “hill of about 170 feet” in height. Clark also mentioned the French traders’ reports of lead ore in the area, though no lead was actually found at this location.

Over time, the Missouri River’s course shifted nearly a mile to the north, which moved the river away from Sugar Loaf Rock. The surrounding bottomland is now owned by the Central Missouri Correctional Center, which limits public access. The summit of Sugar Loaf Rock still offers expansive views of the river valley, much as it did in Clark’s time. However, the rock itself  is situated on private property and is not visible from the river or public areas. Despite its restricted access, Sugar Loaf Rock remains an important historical and natural feature of the region.