Missouri, located in the midwestern United States, is known for its beautiful landscapes and breathtaking natural scenery. With over 6,000 square miles of forests, rivers, and parks, Missouri is a hiker's paradise. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just starting out, there are plenty of places to explore in Missouri. In this blog, we will discuss some of the best places to hike in Missouri.
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Ozark National Scenic Riverways - This park is a must-visit for hikers, as it boasts over 130 miles of trails that wind through forests, along rivers, and up steep bluffs. The park is home to the Current and Jacks Fork rivers, and hikers can explore the riverbanks, caves, and springs that make up the park's unique landscape.
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Ha Ha Tonka State Park - Located in the heart of the Ozarks, this park offers a variety of hiking trails that wind through forests, over bluffs, and around natural springs. One of the most popular trails is the Castle Trail, which takes hikers through the ruins of a 20th-century castle built on a bluff overlooking the lake.
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Mark Twain National Forest - With over 1.5 million acres of land, this forest offers hikers a wide variety of trails to explore. The forest is home to the Ozark Trail, which runs for over 350 miles through the Ozarks, as well as shorter trails that wind through the forest's hills, valleys, and streams.
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Katy Trail State Park - This 240-mile trail was once a railroad track and is now a popular hiking and biking trail that stretches across the state. The trail takes hikers through small towns, past farmland, and along the Missouri River, and offers stunning views of the state's natural beauty.
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Elephant Rocks State Park - This unique park is named for its massive granite boulders that resemble elephants. The park's hiking trails wind through the boulders, offering hikers stunning views of the surrounding forest and hills.
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Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park - This park is known for its natural water slides, but it also offers some excellent hiking trails. The trails wind through the park's hills and valleys, offering hikers a chance to explore the natural beauty of the park.
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Ozark Trail - The Ozark Trail is a 350-mile trail that winds through the Ozark Mountains. The trail offers hikers stunning views of the mountains and forests, and is divided into sections that range from easy to difficult, so hikers of all levels can enjoy the trail.
In conclusion, Missouri is a beautiful state with a wide variety of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the state's natural beauty. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just starting out, there are plenty of places to explore in Missouri, so grab your hiking boots and hit the trail!