As the snow melts and the weather warms, and trees begin to bud, and tourist season begins, chances are that you are looking for some ways to get out of the house – and out of town!- here in the Branson/Tri-Lakes area. You are in luck! Not only is Branson full of great shows, unparalleled shopping, fantastic food and unique attractions, there are also some stellar Branson hiking options for you to explore and enjoy. So just where are some of these hiking trails hidden? Read on to find out, and then grab your hiking boots and head out for a trek!
Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area: For some of the best that the Ozarks have to offer, plan a hike at the Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area. It is rugged, challenging, rocky, and, quite frankly, beautiful! Featuring more than a dozen miles of trails that interchange and loop back into each other, you can spend all day wandering this park. Each trail is well marked and has varying degrees of difficulty. Busiek offers two creeks to admire and splash in – Bull Creek and Woodsfork – and numerous opportunities to see an 1880s cemetery and wildlife, such as native songbirds, whitetail deer, squirrels and more. Be sure to watch out for mountain bikers and horseback riders on the trails as well!
Roaring River State Park: If you like fish and hiking together, head about three quarters of an hour south of Branson for a hiking experience you won’t forget! Experience a beautiful natural spring, intense rock formations, and panoramic views that will take your breath away! After a long hike, cool down by admiring the on-site fish hatchery, and maybe casting in a line or two! You will share the steep, wooded trails of Roaring River State Park with turtles, woodpeckers and other classic Missouri wildlife – be sure to bring a bottle of water and a camera!
Table Rock Lakeshore Trail: For a trail of relative ease that still showcases some of the beauty near Branson, take a stroll along the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail! This paved 2.25 mile trail is situated right on the shores of the famous lake – you will have a view of the waters at all times! Glades, forests and 200 year old oaks are some of the unique landscapes and wildlife habitat you will find along this path. Hikers here often see eagles, hawks and ospreys during their treks!
These are just a few of the great Branson hiking options near the entertainment capital of the Midwest. Any time you hike, be sure to practice a few safety rules that will improve the quality of your hike, as well as your piece of mind: Always inform someone of where you are going and when you will be back, especially if you are hiking alone. Always carry water, a first aid kit, and a cell phone in case of an emergency (if you get service). Always use proper sun protection, whether it is sunscreen, a hat or both. And lastly, always enjoy yourself! Take time to stop and smell the wildflowers and enjoy the great outdoors.
