Warmer weather is finally here and if you are anything like me, you are sick of being cooped up inside and are ready to get outside and explore. Our family loves to hike and we have visited several trails in the Ozarks. We have loved some more than others and have learned some tips along the way. Here’s my guide to some of our favorite friendly hikes in southwest Missouri and northern Arkansas.
Ha Ha Tonka State Park is located in Camdenton, MO and features the ruins of a stone castle and a beautiful natural spring. There are multiple trails and picnic areas as well as a playground. Check in at the visitor center for a potty break and a trail map but be warned there are enticing toys and treats that your kiddos will beg you to buy. We purchased some stuffed birds that make their unique call when squeezed. These are not my favorite souvenir (I generally try to avoid toys that make noise) but at least they are somewhat educational. The Castle Trail is a 0.7 mile out and back trail that is labeled as easy and allows your kids to get pretty close to the ruins. The Natural Bridge is a must see. Learn more here.
Busiek State Forest is in Highlandville, MO between Springfield and Branson. Woods Fork Creek runs through the forest and is very enticing for littles to play and splash in. You might pack water shoes and maybe even a dry change of clothes. The Red Trail is a 3 mile loop trail of fairly easy terrain. Overnight camping is allowed if you’re brave enough. No bathrooms, so be prepared! Learn more here.
Elephant Rocks State Park in Bellview, MO and is known as the Braille trail as it was the first of the MO state parks specifically designed for those who are physically and/or visually impaired. The trail is paved, making it easy for wheelchairs and strollers. It is a one mile loop trail that includes an old engine house built to repair train engines and cars in the 1890s. It also features some fantastically huge granite boulders that resemble a herd of elephants. Bathrooms are available at the entrance. Learn more here.
Echo Bluff State Park is in Eminence, MO and is named after the incredible Echo Bluff, a huge rock wall that is pretty breathtaking. There are cabins and campgrounds in the park as well as a lodge that features a very tasty breakfast buffet (I planned poorly and didn’t hit a McDonald’s on the way…we needed sustenance before hiking). There is a really cool playground as well as a picnic area. We did the Painter Ridge trail and got mixed up with the red and blue trail markers but we survived and made our way out. After hiking, the kids will likely enjoy a dip in Sinking Creek so bring swimsuits (there are bathrooms available to change in). Learn more here.
Lost Valley Hiking Trail is in Ponca, AR. Full disclosure: they are currently closed for a big renovation but should re-open any day now. Obviously, I haven’t visited since the closure and can only speak of the trail pre-renovation, but I definitely think it needs to be on your “to visit” list. This is a 2 mile out and back trail that features a cave and waterfalls. The trail begins very flat but don’t let that fool you, there will be plenty of opportunities to climb and hike before you’re done. The trail ends at a cave that you can climb in/through to see a really cool waterfall. I must admit that I got a little claustrophobic navigating the cave but the payoff of the waterfall at the end was worth it. Please excuse the crummy photo. It’s really difficult to capture a waterfall inside a dark cave!! Learn more here.
Triple Falls Trail is a short, easy hike near Jasper, AR. The trickiest part of this hike is getting to it. The gravel road to the trailhead is steep. I wouldn’t recommend making the drive in a car or van. This is definitely a trip for a truck or SUV. While the trail itself isn’t long, just about a quarter of a mile, there is plenty of space for climbing and adventuring. The falls themselves are a wonder to marvel at and when you’re done admiring them, it’s fun to dip your feet in the water or climb the hills. We visited Triple Falls after a big rain so the falls were especially impressive and the hills were especially muddy. We slid down the hills trying to climb down and had to ride home with muddy bottoms. It has ended up being a pretty fun memory! This is a trip for rainy months, if you go during a dry season be prepared for the falls not to be falling. No bathrooms available. Learn more here.
Now get out there and go on adventure! What are your favorite outdoor places to visit?
Read more of Abbie Mabary’s contributions to allmomdoes here.
