Hiking in the Ozarks

The hills and forests of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways area invite the hiker. The park only maintains a few trails, we hope to increase the number in the future. In addition, all dirt roads and old traces are open to hiking, and except for horseback riders, there won't be much traffic. 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. Please respect others' rights.

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.

In the warmer months the hot and humid Ozark weather can be dangerous! Take plenty of water with you. A good first aid kit is wise as well. Cell phones do not work in many areas. Wear sturdy shoes as the Ozarks are known for rocky terrain.

TRAILS IN THE OZARK RIVERWAYS AREA

Interpretive Trails (with Exhibits) The Slough Trail 0.5 miles - located near the Big Spring. This short trail is accessible for wheelchairs. It leads from Big Spring to the Peavine Picnic Shelter. Exhibits along the trail explain the history and pre-history of the Big Spring area. One way trail. The Pulltite Trail 1.5 miles - located near the Group Camping Area at Pulltite Campground. Follow the service road behind the restroom and turn left onto the footpath. This trail has exhibits about the ecology of the Ozark forests. Loop trail. Short Trails Alley Overlook Trail 1.5 miles - begins right outside the door of the Alley Mill. This steep trail takes you to an overlook where you can look down into the Alley Spring. Can be combined with the Spring Branch Trail for a nice nearly one mile loop. One way trail. Alley Spring Branch Trail 0.3 miles - begins with a nice walk around the Alley Spring, follows the spring branch back to the parking lot. One way trail. Big Spring Branch Trail 0.3 miles - begins with a loop around the Big Spring and follows the spring branch to the bridge. One way trail, moderately rocky. Connects to the Big Spring Overlook Trail. Blue Spring Trail 0.5 miles - begins at the Powder Mill campground and leads to the beautiful Blue Spring. Powder Mill is about 14 miles east of Eminence on Route 106. One way.

More Short Trails Chubb Hollow Trail 0.5 miles - located right behind the Big Spring Lodge, this trail hugs the bluff, providing scenic views of the Current River. One way trail. Big Spring Overlook Trail 1 mile - This trail connects with the Slough Trail to make a loop around the Big Spring. It is very steep and strenuous. Located across the main park road from the Big Spring Lodge. Virgin Pines Interpretive Trail 0.5 miles - located 2 miles south of Round Spring on Route 19. Privately owned by the Pioneer Forest Products Company, you are welcome to enjoy this walk through towering virgin pines. Pick up a trail guide at the parking lot. Loop Trail. Lick Log Trail 1 mile - located on Fox Pen Road (County Road 205) about two miles north of Eminence on Route 19. Stay to the right on Fox Pen Road. A nice loop trail maintained by the Missouri Conservation Department. Longer Trails The Ozark Trail - This is the only truly long foot trail in the area. It extends from St Louis into Arkansas and will be over 500 miles long when all portions are completed. It can be located where it crosses Route 106 about 14 miles east of Eminence, right at the Current River Bridge. Southbound is on the west side of the bridge, northbound on the east. The trail also crosses US Route 60 about 4 miles west of Van Buren. Sections through Peck Ranch may be closed during hunting seasons. One way trail. Old Dirt Roads, some still in use, others abandoned since the end of the logging era wind throughout the area. They can provide a pleasant walking experience. They can be "maze-like" as they cross and recross each other, and a good topographic map is recommended.   Definitions Loop Trail - The trail will return you to, or near, your starting point. One Way Trail - trail ends at a distant point. To return to the beginning you will need to turn around and backtrack. Interpretive Trail - trail with exhibits along it to explain various aspects of nature or history.

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