Posted in Missouri Hiking, Nature January 06, 2023 by Beth Price-Williams

The Magnificent Bridge Trail In Missouri That Will Lead You To A Hidden Overlook

Missouri boasts a sensational network of hiking trails that give us a peek at parts of the state that we’d probably not see otherwise. Even those who aren’t avid hikers can find trails to meet our needs and our interests. If you’re looking for a quick out-and-back trail that boasts an abundance of natural and man-made beauty, set off on this trail in Missouri’s Roaring River State Park.

Tucked in Roaring River State Park in Eagle Rock, Deer Leap Trail spans just .06 miles, which makes for a quick or a leisurely hike depending on your mood.

Deer Leap Trail is considered moderate since you'll be climbing a series of stone stairs. (Take precautions if you're hiking after a rainfall or a snowfall as the stairs can become slippery.)

However, the natural beauty makes the effort worth it. Deer Leap Trail is surrounded by lush forest trees, making it especially pretty during fall foliage.

Stop to admire the views as you stroll along the wooden bridge that provides a glimpse of the...

...shimmering blue spring that gushes into the Roaring River. You'll also get a glimpse of the hatchery near the spring.

If you're up for more hiking, use the Deer Leap Trail to take you to the Roaring River Fire Tower Trail. The four-mile trail leads to a fire tower and more sensational views.

While you're here, do a little more exploring. The park offers hiking, fishing, swimming, and picnicking.

The Roaring River State Park has more than enough unique natural areas to keep coming back for more each season. From cool hiking trails, to fish spotting, and even "roaring river views".

There are many more wonderful hiking trails at Roaring River State Park like the Deer Leap Trail. Do you know of more hiking trails in Missouri that lead to scenic overlooks? Let us know in the comments!

Have you ever hiked the Eagles Bluff Overlook Trail in Columbia? If not, it’s definitely worth a visit for the sensational views.

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Address: State Hwy P, Eagle Rock, MO 65641, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

More scenic hiking trails in Missouri

January 11, 2023

Chris Muras

What are the best places to go hiking in Missouri?

Missouri has around 92 state parks and six national parks, so there are plenty of places to find hiking trails. If you want to find the most scenic hiking trails in Missouri, it's a pretty good bet that you'll find a few in those areas. Here is a list of some of the most scenic MO hiking trails:

Mina Sauk Falls Trail, Middle Brook, MO
Interpretive Loop Trail, Koshkonong, MO
Greer Spring Trail, Woodside Township, MO
Wilderness Trail, Sullivan, MO
Shut-In Trail, Patterson, MO
Rocky Falls Shut-In Trail, Winona Township, MO
Mooner’s Hollow Trail, Bonne Terre, MO

Read more about these beautiful Missouri hikes and view photos that will inspire you to lace up those hiking boots and hit the trails. There are 12 of them - one for each month of the year.

What state parks in Missouri can you camp in?

Many of the state parks in Missouri offer official campgrounds, others allow dispersed camping where you can essentially hike in and set up camp in non-official locations. The following state parks in Missouri have designated campgrounds that offer a wonderful outdoor adventure experience:

Sam A. Baker State Park
Arrow Rock State Historic Site
Babler State Park
Bennett Spring State Park
Big Lake State Park
Finger Lakes State Park
Echo Bluff State Park
Crowder State Park

Check out more information about five excellent campgrounds in Missouri in this article. Whether you enjoy RV camping or tent camping these scenic campgrounds are a nice way to enjoy the wilds of Missouri.