Everyone In Missouri Must Visit This Epic Waterfall As Soon As Possible
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Stephanie Butler
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Grand Falls is Missouri’s largest natural, continually flowing waterfall. It has been referred to as a miniature Niagra Falls. It is located on Shoal Creek, just south of Joplin. It is truly an experience. If it’s a breezy day, you’ll feel the mist from the falls hit your face.
Although not Missouri’s highest waterfall (that honor belongs to Mina Sauk Falls), it is special because unlike some of the higher falls, Grand Falls flows all year long.
During times of high water, the height of the falls is about 25 feet, with water plunging to a solid ledge before flowing southward. Above the falls is a manmade dam, installed to form a reservoir that supplies water to Joplin residents.
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As you approach the falls, you can climb down some umber-colored chert, also known as flint. The chert often creates small pools of water, where you might find frogs or small plants. The unusually thick layers of this chert rock create a ledge measuring 163 feet across and is what creates the falls.
With the uneven terrain of rocks, you will want to make sure to wear appropriate shoes. For playing in the water, rubber aqua socks are also a good choice to avoid slipping.
The falls are relatively easy to find.
Take exit 6 off I-44. Go south on Route 86 two blocks, then west on Glendale Road 1.5 miles. Go south on Jackson across the low-water bridge, then immediately west on Riverside Drive for two miles. Grand Falls will be on the right.
To reach the falls from the junction of Interstate 44 and Highway 86, go south one mile, cross Shoal Creek and turn right immediately after crossing the bridge. Follow the drive along the south bank of Shoal Creek for three more miles. Be on the lookout for the falls on your right.
Grand Falls is accessible from Riverside Drive, and there’s a small gravel lot where you can park your car. You will be able to admire the falls from there, or you can walk the path from the parking lot down to the creek.
Check out this great video by creekdalton:
Take exit 6 off I-44. Go south on Route 86 two blocks, then west on Glendale Road 1.5 miles. Go south on Jackson across the low-water bridge, then immediately west on Riverside Drive for two miles. Grand Falls will be on the right.
To reach the falls from the junction of Interstate 44 and Highway 86, go south one mile, cross Shoal Creek and turn right immediately after crossing the bridge. Follow the drive along the south bank of Shoal Creek for three more miles. Be on the lookout for the falls on your right.
Grand Falls is accessible from Riverside Drive, and there’s a small gravel lot where you can park your car. You will be able to admire the falls from there, or you can walk the path from the parking lot down to the creek.
Check out this great video by creekdalton:
Have you been to Grand Falls and Shoal Creek? What was your experience? Share in the comments below.
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