Water views just add an extra touch of magic to any hike. Whether you’re passing flowing creeks, babbling brooks, or shimmering waterfalls, you just can’t beat those water views. Hercules Glade Backpacking Loop Trail in Missouri offers a little bit of everything — beautiful creeks, tumbling waterfalls, and an abundance of peace and quiet. It’s perfect for a day trip or an overnighter.

Hercules Glade Wilderness Area, in Mark Twain National Forest, is the perfect destination if you're looking for jaw-dropping natural beauty and tranquility. It also offers several stunning hiking trails.
All Trails/James Gerlach
If you're up for an overnighter, pack your backpack for your journey along the 9.9-mile Hercules Glade Backpacking Loop Trail. You can also complete the trail in a single day.
All Trails/James Gerlach
Whatever you do, make sure you wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots, and pack a sufficient supply of water. Those who have hiked the trail, particularly in the warmer months, recommend...
All Trails/Brian Hays
...lathering on the bug spray and bringing it along, too. The trail is considered moderate, although it's well worth the effort if you're looking for peace and quiet.
All Trails/Michael Scharpf
Expect different types of terrain — rocky and flat, for example — along the trail. Your best bet for catching the creek and the falls at their finest is to go after a recent rainfall.
All Trails/James Gerlach

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However, if you do that, just be ready to traverse a muddy path. Keep an eye out for the small wooden sign that will alert you to the upcoming...
All Trails/James Gerlach
...waterfalls. You'll find, in fact, several cascading waterfalls along the trail. If you're backpacking, you'll run across one of the camping spots not too far from a waterfall.
All Trails/Nathanael Parnell
Bring your camera along, so you can snap photos of the waterfall.
All Trails/Brandon McNeal
Don't expect much foot traffic on the trail. As it's in a remote spot in Mark Twain National Forest, the trail is often quiet.
All Trails/Nathanael Parnell
Learn more about the Hercules Glade Wilderness Area. You can also find a map of the trail at All Trails.
All Trails/Michael Scharpf

What’s your favorite hiking trail in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! For a simple trek that leads to 500-year-old trees, head over to Allred Lake near Neelyville.

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Hercules-Glades Wilderness, Bradleyville, MO 65614, USA