Fall Hiking Series 2022

Take a hike!

NPS Photo

Now is the time to start planning fall and winter hiking adventures. Ozark National Scenic Riverways has a variety of great trails for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can explore trails independently or can participate in several ranger-led hiking events planned throughout the fall. Social distancing will be encouraged during ranger-led hikes.

Plan accordingly when hiking or participating in any outdoor recreational activity. Hikers should take weather conditions into consideration and be prepared during all seasons. Drinking water, rain gear, map, snacks, flashlight, sturdy hiking shoes, clothing appropriate for the weather and terrain, and emergency campfire supplies are recommended. Always remember to inform someone of your plans.

September

September 17: Fall Hiking Season Kickoff

The fall hiking season will kick off with a hike from Round Spring to Echo Bluff State Park. Complete the first leg of the Current River Challenge hike/float adventure and learn about other trail opportunities throughout the park. This 4.25-mile hike begins at 10 a.m. at the Round Spring pavilion parking lot. At the conclusion of the hike the Ozark Riverways Foundation (ORF), the official Friends Group for Ozark National Scenic Riverways, will host a celebration for hikers at Echo Bluff State Park with food, refreshment, and games. A shuttle back to Round Spring will also be provided by ORF.

September 24: Chubb Hollow, Lookout and CCC Trails near Big Spring

This 4.3-mile hike will explore three trail loops south of Big Spring, where you’ll experience beautiful scenery while learning about the cultural history of the original Big Spring State Park. Meet at Big Spring parking area.

October

October 1: B.A.R.K. Ranger hike at Big Spring

Bring your furry, four-legged friends and join a Park Ranger for a short hike around Big Spring beginning at 10 a.m. Following the hike, all dogs will be officially sworn in as Ozark National Scenic Riverways B.A.R.K. Rangers and given an exclusive Riverways B.A.R.K. Ranger bandana. Dogs must be on a six-foot leash at all times.

October 1: Cedar Grove to Susie Nichols Cabin

John and Susie Nichols built their home in 1910, where Susie lived until her passing in 1959. Today the park has stabilized the structures to preserve the sixty-year history of the Nichols Farm. Meet at 10 a.m. at Cedar Grove, near the restroom and parking area east of the bridge. This hike is 4 miles, round trip.

October 8: Rocky Falls to Klepzig Mill

Meet at 10 a.m. at Rocky Falls to hike Rocky Falls to Klepzig Mill. This moderately strenuous 3.1 mile hike will take hikers through the scenic mill mountain area. Shuttle Provided. Meet at Rocky Falls.

October 15: Middle Current River Discovery

Powder Mill Ozark Trailhead to Blue Spring Ozark Trailhead 5-mile round trip hike along the Ozark Trail. Ranger discussions about the history of elk in the Missouri Ozarks using Henry Rowe Schoolcraft’s journal entries. Followed by the reintroduction and current herd health and habits. Historic building discussions of the Owls Bend community. Possible opportunity to spot elk in the wild in open fields. Hike will pass by historic Owls Bend School and Ramsey Barn. Meet at the Powder Mill trailhead.

October 29: Howl-o-Ween B.A.R.K Ranger (2 p.m.)

Bring Fido and Fluffy for a special Bark Ranger Costume Hike around Alley Spring. Participants are encouraged to bring their dog all dressed up for Halloween. Participants will receive a B.A.R.K. Ranger Certificate and prizes for different categories. Meet at Alley Mill at 2 p.m.

October 22: Autumn Colors Hike

Enjoy spectacular fall colors along the Cave Spring Trail. Meet at Devils Well at 10 a.m. to hike 2.2 miles to Cave Spring and then return using the loop trail (2.7 miles) for a total of approximately five miles.

November

November 5: Hike to Honor Veterans

This hike will begin with a brief flag ceremony at 10 a.m. at Rocky Falls in honor of our veterans. Pack a lunch and hike 2.5 miles on the Ozark Trail to the top of Stegall Mountain. Following lunch, participants will hike back to Rocky Falls, for a total distance of five miles. Bring your favorite veteran or just come show appreciation for others. ORF will provide special recognition for all veterans in attendance.

Trails are a major attraction for visitors to the area. Many come to float and paddle on the river trails. Horse enthusiasts travel from great distances to participate in area trail rides. The Ozark Trail passes through the park and local communities. Volunteer groups attract hundreds of people to build and maintain trails. Trails are an important part of the local heritage and of the recreational opportunities available in the Ozarks today. Fall is the perfect time to enjoy all that the area trails have to offer.