DOWNLOAD PDF MISSOURI HIKING TRAILS

Transcription

1 Chapter 1 : Ozark Trail Missouri Hiking Trails Midwest Hiking Trails Offering more than 6, acres of camping, fishing and trails, Cuivre River State Park is perfect for hikers looking to devote a few days to exploring Missouri's natural treasures. Scour Trail at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park gives visitors a chance to hike through billion years of geologic history. Chief among trails in Missouri and the Midwest is the Ozark Trail which meanders through our richly beautiful region of the Missouri Ozarks. Hike the highest mountains in Missouri in our St. Francois Mountain sections of the Ozark Trail. In the s work began on a vision to build a scenic and varied route in the Missouri Ozarks, from just outside St. Louis southwest to the Arkansas border, to eventually connect with the Ozark Highlands Trail, creating a mile through-trail. Governmental agencies, environmental groups and dedicated bands of volunteers have now completed over miles of the Missouri section of the Ozark Trail. These Ozark Trail Sections in the St. Francois Mountain region of the Ozarks are are located near St. Come for a day hike near St. Louis or come for a weekend or week long hiking trip if you have more time. Hiking the Trace Creek Section of the Ozark Trail â Located just southwest of Potosi, this beautifully simple trail wanders through dense Hickory, Oak and Pine forests with deep, shady hollows and windswept ridges. The Trace Creek Section of the Ozark Trail crosses several small, mostly wet weather streams, as well as Hazel Creek and several state highways. The northern 18 miles of trail were created in, and the last 6 miles were added in There are two official trailheads on this mile moderately difficult section: Camping is available at Hazel Creek Campground and feet from the trail. It also passes near seeps and fens, such as the Barton Fenâ a breeding grounds and habitat for the endangered Hines Emerald Dragonfly. This is the newest section of the Ozark Trail, having only been finished since This mile moderate to easy trail also provides some of the best single-track mountain bicycling in Missouri. There are two official trailheads on this section: Camping is available feet from the trail. Hiking the Karkaghne Section of the Ozark Trail â The Karkaghne Section of the Ozark Trail is the only section not named after a natural featureâ by one account the name comes from a mythical creature in forest folklore! This side-slope trail runs just below the ridge tops from Oates to Highway 72 and offers great swimming opportunities when lowering to cross the West Fork of the Black River and Bee Fork with a large gap of no water until Grasshopper Hollow the largest fen complex in un-glaciated North America near the southern end of the trail. In the s, the lower 18 miles were constructed, running from Sutton Bluff to Highway 72, with the final miles from Oates added in This moderately difficult mile section has three official trailheads: Camping is available at Sutton Bluff Campground and feet from the trail. For six miles the trail follows a major ridge line dividing Big Creek and Blair Creek. Scattered along this moderately difficult mile trail, there are glades which hold heat-retaining rocks and make it a pleasant hike even in the colder months. There are three official trailheads on this section: Camping is available at Owls Bend Campground and feet from the trail. At only nine miles, this trail offers opportunities for an enjoyable day hike or a great mountain bike trip. An additional loop is available around Crane Lakeâ featuring spectacular rock formations at the shut-ins below the dam. Camping is not allowed at Crane Lake, but is available at Marble Creek Campground and feet from the trail. A timber sale is in progress along a two-mile section of the trail, beginning about three miles from Marble Creek Campground. A portion of the trail has been destroyed by logging vehicles and may be difficult to follow at times. If you are unfamiliar with the trail, you should bring a topographical map and compass. Four official trailheads provide access to this section: Or, for other businesses and services near these hiking trails, see the Chamber of Commerce websites at www. Page 1

2 Chapter 2 : Visit Missouri Filtered Search Explore the most popular trails in Missouri with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. hiking dogs on leash. The park only maintains a few trails, we hope to increase the number in the future. The National Park Service is in the process of marking some of the trails, but a good topographical map will help. Many trails leave the park and cross private or state lands. A few common sense rules will help you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Ticks are abundant in the spring, summer and fall, and may even be picked up during the coldest months. Check yourself regularly, wear light colored clothing and stay away from high grass if possible. A good insect repellent sprayed on your pants legs may help. Poisonous snakes are found in the area, but are seldom a problem. Most snakebites occur when people try to catch, kill, or otherwise interact with the snake. If you see a snake, simply make a wide circle around him and go on your way and let the snake go on his. Killing snakes is prohibited in Missouri. The route traverses a stand of cane and riparian forest along the slough with impoundments constructed by the CCC. Interpretive exhibits explain history, pre-history, and natural habitat of the immediate area. This easy meandering trail, much of it through a stand of cane, provides a connection between Big Spring Campground and Peavine Picnic Shelter where one can catch the Slough Trail which leads to the Big Spring. Offers intimate views of the river. This moderate to mildly strenuous hike ascends the limestone bluff to the ridgeline above the Big Spring, then descends through swales and hollows down to link up with the Slough Trail. The trail travels through dry upland oak woods with numerous limestone outcroppings and several opportunities for scenic views. Spring wildflowers, lichens, mosses, and ferns cling to the cliff-side. It intersects the Stone Ridge Trail before crossing the paved road then proceeds south to the Dining Lodge. This trail offers a wide range of experiences. Midway along the ridgetop visitors encounter the Big Spring Lookout Tower used during the midth century as part of a regional fire protection system. Excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing turkey, deer, numerous song birds and raptors exist as the trail nears the Current River floodplain and passes by open fields. Three fourths of the trail winds along a stream bed until ascending the ridge up to the Big Spring Lookout Tower. This moderate trail parallels Chilton Creek as it travels up McSpadden Hollow before ascending a ridgetop. The trail follows an old trace much of the way, with hand laid stone crib walls constructed years ago where intermittent streams descend the ridge. Dipping into a second stream bed which drains into Water Hollow, the trail loops back to the north where it intersects Hwy. At this point one can cross the road, catching the Partney Ridge Trail, or turn north along side Hwy. Z to complete the Chilton Creek loop. Hikers can park near the museum. The trail is moderate, but longand will intersect the Kinnard Trail, which in turn will intersect the Chubb Hollow Trail, taking one back to the parking lot. A portion of this trail lies within the Big Spring Pines State Natural Areaâ containing one of the most outstanding pine-oak forests in the Lower Ozarks. Cave Spring River Trail: This easy trail begins at the day-use picnic area near Cave Spring on the Lower Current located west of the small community of Hunter take Hwy 21 south and Hwy E west out of Hunter. Cave Spring River Trail passes through dense riparian habitat along the banks of the spring branch fed by waters issuing from the large vaulted entrance of the cave. This trail follows the spring branch east to the Current River. This easy walk leads from the gate at the parking area up the old "home place" road to the farmstead of Susie Nichols, who up until her death in chose to keep "the old ways". The trail is located off Hwy. K north of Akers. An old impoundment contains the flow, then water tumbles into the Current River over rock debris. Of interestthe stone ruins of an old hospital can be seen across the containment pondwhere tuberculosis "cures" were soughtwith convalescing patients breathing in the thick, cold, damp vapors which welled up from the cave. Cave Spring Trail 4. Follow signs on KK east of Akers where a gravel access road leads to Devils Well an ancient sinkholeat the bottom of which lies an underground lake the size of a football field. The loop trail, beginning at the Devils Welltraverses oak-pine forest ridges, a limestone glade, winds through hollows and crosses intermittent streams as it brings hikers down to the mouth of Cave Spring on the Current River. This trail presents a moderate challenge. The trailhead is located near the terminus of the campground road near the Group Page 2

3 Camping Area at Pulltite. On decent from the ridgetop the trail parallels the Current. Page 3

4 Chapter 3 : 45 Southwest Missouri Hiking and Biking Trails Missouri has approximately trails, including hiking trails, for walking and for other activities. These trails range from 0 to miles in length. The most popular trails are Matson Hill Park, Chubb Trail and Columbia Bottom Conservation Area. November 10, Best Vacation Ideas It was on March,, that some 26, soldiers fought here to decide the fate of Missouri. Over miles of shoreline and acres famous for Bass fishing and many other species of fish, water sports, family hospitality, swimming, diving, sailing, boating, hiking, nature trails and all fun activities to create lake memories. Austin to San Antonio. Drive an hour south to San Antonio for historic family fun. Nov 4, â View the Best cabins with Prices in Branson. As an alternative, Tantone Industries will accept recyclables for Branson residents at Missouri 76, Branson. Hiking trails may have. Laguna Niguel Vacation Rentals Place in Paradise â Kailua offers casual oceanfront accommodations on one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii. Kailua Beach has been voted "Best Beach in. Valley Water Mill Park, 70 acres, with a one-mile hiking trail around the lake. The park has trash cans for fis. Find useful information, the address and the phone number of the local business you are looking for. Jobs 1 â 20 of You can find listings for Vancouver travel agents right here. Book vacations, cruises and airfare with the help of the finest travel gurus in Vancouver. The insurance innovation craze of will be a bust in Grounds Unlike many resorts in this very hilly area, Wing and Fin is located atop a relatively flat plateau. We have large, fairly flat, grassy play areas for kids of all ages to play outdoor games of all kinds. Welcome to Crystal Cove, a Branson bed and breakfast. And I was pleasantly surprised to learn that this resort, which features two golf courses, retail shopping and dining, time shares, a fishing pond and hiking trails. Highway 65 at Springfield, Mo. Trinidad and Tobago boosts food-processing capacity. There are plenty of places to choose from, and all will adequately supply you with wonderful food. Here are five of the best buffets in Bransonâ State Parks From hiking along the beautiful trails to gathering around a campfire with your loved ones, the possibilities are endless for your next adventure at our numerous state parks in and around Springfield. In Branson, visitors can have fun without spending a fortune to do so. Check out these free things to do in Branson, MO for affordable fun. Today, he works with Sir Richard Branson on big-idea projects. Adjacent Kennedy Park has miles of trails, perfect for foliage hiking and biking. Fifteen minutes from Branson, the romantic guestrooms offer colorful degree views. Some travelers, this one included, sometimes prefer to explore the undiscovered places, the forgotten destinations, the off-the-beaten-trail getaways. Musical families can plan a drive that includes Nashville, Memphis and Branson, Mo. The Midwest region includes: Hikers who climb nearby Taum Sauk mountain are rewarded with a waterfall at the very top that can be very impressive in rainy weather. Fall is a beautiful time to walk through the woods in the Ozarks. Several hiking trails ranging from short easy trails to long more difficult trails are available. Page 4

5 Chapter 4 : Missouri (MO) Hiking Trails blog.quintoapp.com Camping & Hiking If you are looking for Missouri hiking trails, mountain biking trails or love to go backpacking among some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere in the United States, these Missouri Trails fit the bill. Rivaled only by Colorado or the Appalachian Trail, you will be greatly impressed by the hundreds of miles of trails in the St. Francois Mountain Region in the Missouri Ozarks. If you want to see and experience a landscape unique on the earth, visit Iron and Reynolds County Missouri. Come to Missouri where hundreds of miles of trails await your exploration! Famous for the Ozark Trail, there are many other trails to explore in this region of Missouri. These Missouri hiking trails and biking trails are located near St. Come for a day hike near St. Louis, or come for a weekend hike or week long hiking trip if you have more time. Francois Mountains were formed through volcanic and intrusive activity nearly 1. By comparison, the Appalachians started forming about million years ago and the Rockies a mere 70 million years ago. When the Appalachian Mountains started forming, the St. Francois range was already twice as old as the Appalachians are today. This range is one of the oldest exposures of igneous rock in North America. Geologists believe that the volcanic activity that formed this mountain range is also thought to be the geological cause of the uplift of the entire Ozark Plateau. It is believed that the peaks of the St. Francois Mountains may be the only area in the American Midwest never to have been submerged in the Paleozoic seas. Around the peaks, in the areas that were submerged, fossilized coral and the remains of ancient reef complexes can be found. These resulted in rich ore deposits of iron, lead, barite, zinc, silver, manganese, cobalt, and nickel, as well as granite and limestone. Geo Map of St. In the s work began on a vision to build a scenic and varied route in the Missouri Ozarks, from just outside St. Louis southwest to the Arkansas border, to eventually connect with the Ozark Highlands Trail, creating a mile through-trail. Governmental agencies, environmental groups and dedicated bands of volunteers have now completed over miles of the Missouri section of the Ozark Trail. Read more information about the Ozark Trail. There are unlimited hiking and mountain biking opportunities in our region. See the many recreational opportunities below and we think you will agree that this is the best place in Missouri to find hiking and biking trails. For more detailed information on the trails in our region, please see the following: Page 5

6 Chapter 5 : Missouri - Hiking Information Offering eight fantastic hiking trails, Rock Bridge State Park is one of the true Missouri destinations. Offering forests, bluffs, prairies, and caves, this is the ideal destination to get the feel for everything the Show-Me-State has to offer. Beauty surrounds us in land, and the best way to enjoy it is to hop right in. The best time to do it is nowâ fall provides the perfect weather for exploring the thousands of miles of hiking and mountain biking trails that snake their way through the rolling Ozark Mountains. And the best part? Ready to trek your way through acres of lush green forest and miles of rolling hills and take in million-dollar views of flowing rivers, towering bluffs and bright blue skies? Get out, and start exploring. If you want to take your little ones on your next outdoor adventure, try out one of these family-friendly trails. Bikers on the Frisco Highline Trail enjoy many great views, including La Petite Gemme prairie, located at mile marker The spot is especially beautiful in the spring. Frisco Highline Trail Stretching from Springfield to Bolivar, the Frisco Highline Trail is the longest rail trail in southwest Missouri and the second longest rail trail in the state. The Frisco runs a total of 35 miles, including 12 paved miles and 23 miles of crushed gravel. The complete trail runs over 16 railroad bridges that have been retrofitted for trail use, including the longest foot Highline Bridge at mile marker If you want to tackle a small section of the trail, we suggest traveling the northern portion heading south from Bolivar to Wishart. The ride will take 2 to 4 hours. Get the Million-Dollar Shot: Find La Petite Gemme prairie in spring, when all the wildflowers are in bloom. From Springfield, take Highway 13 north to Bolivar. Exit on Highway 32 and turn east, then make a right into the trailhead parking area. The popular paved trail at this breathtaking nature park covers 6. It follows creeks and offers views of limestone bluffs, tumbling waterfalls, native stone, wrought-iron bridges and more, all perfect for your next adventure on bike or on foot. Because the spot is a wilderness park, you also have a chance to spot native wildlife. Wishbowl Falls, which features a double waterfall. Turn right on EE, then left on MO When you get to MO west, go right. For a quick, easy lap around the place, check out the half-mile Woodland loop. The well-maintained and manicured trail starts just down the hill from the Audubon Center, and it gives hikers a chance to see a variety of wildlife and spot lichens and lichen grasshoppers that live in the park. If you have enough energy to explore other trails, we recommend the bluff trail that overlooks Shoal Creek. Woodland Loop is dotted with learning stations. It is used by heron and water fowl, and the giant boulder provides an awesome photo opportunity! From Springfield, take I West to exit 6 in Joplin. Turn south on Highway The center is located on the right side of the road just past the round-about. In the summer, you may even spot boaters out and about. Snap a shot of the castle ruins. Parking for the trailhead is located along Castle Ruins Road. Lost Hill Park Trail Lost Hill Park is a great place for hiking and exploring, and it offers a chance to take in a variety of one-of-a-kind sights. There are fossils, bluffs, caves and other geological features that are the result of a shallow sea that occupied the area millions of years ago. If you feel like spending even more time in the great outdoors after your Lost Hill Park adventure, you can easily hop on the neighboring South Creek Greenway trail and get in another 1. There are natural caves and bridges along the way. Travel north on Grant, which turns into Farm Road Travel past Farm Road 96 and you will reach the park and trailhead on the left side of the road. Cotton is not your friend. Cotton clothing holds moisture and dries slowly and is not effective as a base layer or for socks in the outdoors. Try synthetic or merino wool clothing and socks. If you want to make a weekend of your next adventure, check out these hiking and biking destinations in Northwest and Northern Arkansas and throughout Missouri. With an elevation of 2, feet, Mount Magazine is the highest point in Arkansas and offers many scenic hiking trails. Located about four hours from Springfield with an elevation of 2, feet, the massive mountain is a popular destination for hikers, horseback riders and other visitors who stay at the luxurious lodge that overlooks the Petit Jean River Valley and Blue Mountain Lake. Those looking to hike this monstrous mountain can choose from trails that range from a simple 2-mile loop with views of wildflowers, plant life and breathtaking scenery to the much more strenuous 9. To reach the high point a must on your trip, hike the Signal Hill Trail. If your whole goal is a good view, start with the easy Benefield Loop trail, then try the North Rim Trail. While the North Rim is a moderate to strenuous hike, the 2. This is one hike that will definitely be worth the workâ we Page 6

7 promise. If you decide to go on the bluff, you will be standing on the tallest sheer bluff face between the Rocky and Appalachian mountains. Ponca and Jasper Area To explore some of the most photographed spots in Arkansas, plan a hiking adventure in the small-yet-hopping towns of Ponca and Jasper. While the area is fully loaded with trails that offer truly breathtaking scenery, there are a few that are visited a bit more than the rest. The trail leads explorers to Hawksbill Crag, a rock outcrop that jets out from a tall bluff. The crag offers a spectacular view of the surrounding upper Buffalo Wilderness area. Those who are up for a bit of a longer, more strenuous hike should check out the Centerpoint trail to Big Bluff. At 6 miles round-trip, this trail leads hikers through the woods for a couple of miles before taking a sharp right turn that leads to Big Bluff spur. On average, people take a break on the trail about every hour. This makes a great opportunity for snacks throughout the day that will help with your muscle recovery and energy levels. While there are many scenic areas here, Dan Nash of Hiking the Ozarks recommends hiking the Hurricane Creek section, which can be reached from Pelsor, Arkansas, by traveling west on Arkansas until you cross the Big Piney Bridge. You can park at the old school just west of the bridge on the south side of To access the trail, walk east across the bridge and down the gravel road to the north. The trail is marked and runs east from the road. Also, this area of the trail runs along Hurricane Creek. Adventure enthusiasts have their choice of some 64 miles among 7 trails, including the 4. The park has 14 miles of trails, many that offer fabulous terrain and views for hikers. Mountain bikers are allowed on the bench trail, which is 4. If you only have time for one hike, try the rim trail, but be warned: Hiking in wet socks is the worst and bad for your feet, so keep an extra pair of socks in your bag. Katy Trail Especially popular for cyclists, the Katy Trail is the longest rail-trail project in Missouri and one of the largest rail-trail projects in the nation. The trail is miles long and stretches east to west across the northern part of Missouri, occupying a segment of rail corridor that once carried trains of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad a. Built and maintained by the Bull Shoals-Lakeview Rotary Club, the trail traverses an oak-hickory upland forest and includes creek crossings, dirt roads, open meadows, long downhills and taxing uphills. The challenging trail snakes its way through a beautiful section of Mark Twain National Forest and offers a challenging ride along with its amazing scenery. For a brochure about the trail and directions to trailheads, contact the Potosi Ranger District Office at Chocolate milk does wonders to prevent muscle ache after a long ride. That and plenty of stretching are my recovery routine. There are plenty of scenic stops along this 8-mile trail as it weaves through the heart of Springfield. Stop Along the Way: There are plenty of picnic spots. Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is a must-see, so be sure to bring your camera. There are five walking trails that range from one-quarter of a mile to three-quarters of a mile. Bikes are only allowed on the paved tour road. Make a pit-stop at the Visitor Center to pick up a map and see the many Civil War exhibits. Mixing history and fitness! Even though this mile single-track route is great for beginners, it dips through a few streams and promises to get you nice and dirty. The trail is littered with roots, small rocks, challenging uphills and speedy descents. See if you can spot it. There are a few jumps scattered along this ride. In the heart of Joplin; find the trailhead at Zora Street and St. As the trail winds around the nature center, ramblers get to see different habitats including a woodland area, a restored bottomland prairie, a glade and an upland and bottomland forest. Remember to leave your pets at home when planning your visit. Your furry, four-legged pals are a no, no here. Stop Along The Way: Stop and peer off the three observation decks that are peppered along The Long Trail. One overlooks the forest, and the others offer a great view of Galloway creek. This is a great place to unwind and get back in touch with nature. Running 6 miles northâ south, this paved recreation trail is the perfect roadway for that dusty Schwinn. Pack a light lunch, and cruise on over to the Nature Center for a mid-day picnic. Chapter 6 : Hiking Information for The Ozarks, Missouri Find the top rated hiking trails in Missouri, whether you're looking for an easy short hiking trail or a long hiking trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a hiking trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews. Chapter 7 : Best Hiking Trails in Missouri AllTrails Page 7

8 Trails, Parks, Hiking Guides, Outfitters, Presented below are Tour Companies that offer guided hiking trips and/or the gear you need in Missouri. Click on any name for more detailed information. Chapter 8 : Hiking in the Ozarks - Ozark National Scenic Riverways (U.S. National Park Service) Missouri, located in the Midwest region of the U.S., is mostly comprised of prairie land dotted with rivers and streams. In southern Missouri, the Ozark Plateau rises with hills and low mountains, while the Osage Plains in the west mix prairie land with dispersed woodlands. Chapter 9 : Missouri Trails Missouri Hiking & Biking Trails Missouri Ozarks Trail Guide Midwest Trails Chief among trails in Missouri and the Midwest is the Ozark Trail which meanders through our richly beautiful region of the Missouri Ozarks. Page 8