15 Incredible Natural Wonders In Missouri That Defy Explanation
Beth Price-Williams
Author
Adventure and Missouri go hand-in-hand, and there’s little wonder why. Missouri boasts so much to do – from fast-paced thrills like ziplining to chill outings like hiking to scenic overlooks – that we never have to get worried about being bored (unless we want to be, of course). If you’re not sure where to explore next, hop in the car, set the GPS, and head to one of the best natural wonders in Missouri.
Best Gorges & Canyons In Missouri
Some of the best nature spots in Missouri are its gorges and canyons. We don’t have to travel to Arizona to see these spectacular natural wonders. Here are the best gorges and canyons in Missouri that are worthy of a spot on your bucket list.
1. Grand Gulf State Park – Koshkonong
Straddling the Missouri-Arkansas border, Grand Gulf State Park's masterpiece is undoubtedly its gorge, known as The Little Grand Canyon. This breathtaking natural attraction in Missouri is one mile long with 130-foot-tall walls and was formed when a dolomite cave collapsed. But the gorge isn't the only natural wonder at Grand Gulf State Park. The bottom of the gorge features one of the largest natural bridges in Missouri. Set off on the Interpretive Loop Trail, a short but sweet one-mile trail that earns a moderate rating due to some rough terrain. It will lead you through the gorge.
2. Hickory Canyons – New Offenburg
Breathtaking natural beauty will greet you at Hickory Canyons Natural Area, one of the most spellbinding natural attractions in Missouri. Follow the Eastern Trail or the Western Trail to admire the sandstone cliffs, box canyons, and waterfalls. If you're going specifically to see the waterfalls, your best bet is to visit after it has rained. All are wet-weather waterfalls.
3. Royal Gorge – Arcadia Township
Experience the sheer natural beauty of this Missouri natural wonder by hiking or driving. Royal Gorge is a gap that runs through the mountainside and was created by volcanoes. If you're driving, follow Route 72 or 21 in Iron County for stunning views of this natural wonder. Or, set off on the 2.2-mile Royal Gorge Natural Trail. Because it's not well-traveled, the trail is typically quiet and not maintained, which can pose some challenges. If you're up for that challenge, you'll be treated to breathtaking views.
Best Caves In Missouri
It should come as little surprise that some of the best nature spots in Missouri are its caves. The Cave State, after all, lays claim to an estimated 7,500 caves. We can find some of those caves as we’re exploring on a hike while others have become popular tourist attractions. When you’re planning your next outing, consider exploring one of the best caves in Missouri.
4. Meramec Caverns – Sullivan, MO
As the largest commercial cave in Missouri, Meramec Caverns was originally discovered in 1720. Formed as limestone deposits began eroding, this natural wonder in Missouri has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state. Guided tours last 90 minutes. Be prepared to do a lot of walking as you travel 1.25 miles. (A shorter 45-minute tour is also available if you have difficulty walking. The Missouri cave is not handicap-accessible.)
5. Fantastic Caverns – Springfield, MO
Arguably one of the best natural attractions in Missouri, Fantastic Caverns is the only ride-through cave in the United States. Climb aboard the tram, which is wheelchair-accessible, that will take you on a 55-minute tour a mile below the ground. One of the highlights of the guided tour is the Hall of Giants, a room full of massive columns.
6. Sheep’s Cave – Sullivan, MO
Don't forget your flashlight (and knee pads) for your visit to Sheep's Cave, a natural cave in Meramec State Park. The cave sits along the short, sweet, and easy .01-mile Sheep's Cave Trail. You can explore the multi-room cave, but be forewarned. It is dark, so bring a flashlight. Some of the ceilings are so slow you'll need to crawl, so knee pads are a good idea, too. While you can visit any time of the year, you'll quickly discover it's delightfully cool on a hot summer day.
Best Waterfalls In Missouri
For some of the best nature in Missouri, we only need to look as far as the closest waterfall. Many of the waterfalls in Missouri are wet-weather, so the best time to visit is in the spring after the snowmelt or after it has rained.
7. Mina Sauk Falls – Middle Brook
Nestled in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, Mina Sauk Falls holds the title of the tallest waterfall in Missouri at 132 feet. Slip on your hiking shoes because the beautiful cascade sits along the three-mile Mina Sauk Falls Trail. Because of the rocky terrain, the trail earns a moderate rating. Mina Sauk Falls sits at the half mark of the loop trail, so if you don't have the time you can hike to the falls and turn back around.
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8. Grand Falls – Joplin
One of the most easily accessible waterfalls in Missouri, Grand Falls draws visitors all year round. Since it's viewable from the parking lot, you can even sit in your car to admire this 163-foot wide waterfall with a 12-foot drop. However, if you want to see it up close, you're just a short stroll to it. Bring your swimming gear if you visit during the summer, so you can wade in the cool water.
9. Rocky Falls – Winona
One of the most spellbinding natural wonders in Missouri, Rocky Falls is perhaps best known as a swimming hole. The natural cascade draws those trying to cool off in the summer, so it can get quite busy. If you're hoping to escape the crowds, visit during the off-season. Picnic tables, grills, and bathrooms are just a short from from Rocky Falls.
Best Overlooks & Scenic Vistas In Missouri
Drinking in some of the most awe-inspiring views in Missouri is usually pretty easy. Sure, we can go on a hike, but what happens when we’re yearning for a chill adventure? We head to one of the best overlooks and scenic vistas in Missouri, including:
10. Eagles Bluff – Columbia
You'll have to work to see some of the best views in Missouri. However, if you're up for the challenge that the 2.2-mile Eagles Bluff Overlook Trail poses, you'll be well-rewarded with sensational views of the Missouri River and Perche Creek. The moderate trail is (leashed) dog-friendly and picture-perfect in each season.
11. 165 Scenic Overlook – Branson, MO
For some of the best views in Branson, you'll just need to pull over, park, and stroll to the 165 Scenic Overlook. Don't forget your camera, so you can snap photos of Branson, Lake Taneycomo, and Table Rock Dam. If you can swing it, try to catch one of Missouri's glorious sunrises from this scenic overlook.
Best Rock Formations in Missouri
Missouri’s rich history includes the most awe-inspiring rock formations, some dating back more than a billion years. When you’re on the hunt for an adventure the whole family will love, check out some of the best rock formations in Missouri.
12. Elephant Rocks State Park – Belleview
Indisputably the masterpiece of Elephant Rocks State Park, Elephant Rocks are granite boulders, lined up like elephants in the circus, that date back 1.5 billion years. Kids - and kids at heart - enjoy climbing this majestic natural wonder in Missouri. Don't worry about their sturdiness either. The largest, nicknamed Dumbo, weighs 680 tons and stands 27 feet tall.
13. Pinnacles Youth Park – Sturgeon
While it's a private park, Pinnacles Youth Park welcomes the public to explore its 70 acres. If you're looking for the best nature spots in Missouri, this park certainly fits the bill. The .08-mile Pinnacles Youth Park Summit Loop Trail leads to 300-million-year-old limestone bluffs that are popular for scrambling. Just be careful of steep drop-offs.
Unique Natural Wonders in Missouri
Among the many natural attractions in Missouri, some stand apart as the most unique. Pull out your bucket list, and add these natural wonders. If you’ve already visited, you might want to plan another visit in a different season.
14. Johnson’s Shut-Ins – Middle Brook
Particularly popular during the summer, Johnson's Shut-Ins beckon sunbathers who want to cool off in the water. The shut-ins date back more than a billion years and feature pools and waterfalls. Several scenic hiking trails also pass by the shut-ins, making this natural wonder in Missouri a must-visit in any season.
15. Big Spring – Carter Township
While Missouri is known as the Cave State, it also has its fair share of springs, with around 4,400. Big Spring is the largest spring in Missouri and one of the biggest in the U.S. It has an average daily water flow of 286 million gallons, but what draws visitors is its sheer natural beauty. Big Spring is a gorgeous blue. To reach it, follow a short, handicap-accessible path from the parking lot.
How many of these natural wonders in Missouri have you visited? Are there any natural attractions in Missouri that should be on this list? Let us know in the comments! Ready for another adventure? Hit the highway on this road trip to the best nature places in Missouri.
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