Lace up your hiking boots, because these scenic overlooks are worth the effort. Did you know our state was so gorgeous?

1. Castlewood State Park – Ballwin

Take the Cedar Bluff Loop Trail or Lone Wolf Trail up, up, and up for stunning views of the Meramec River.

2. Lewis and Clark Trail – Defiance

This 9-mile trail isn't short, but it sure is sweet. Don't miss the short spurs coming off the main trail—they offer beautiful views of the Missouri River.

3. Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area – Branson

For stunning views of Branson, visit the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area. A short 0.4-mile stroll gets you from the parking lot to a 40-foot viewing tower.

4. Table Rock State Park - Branson

Take the 3.5-mile Blue Loop of the White River Valley Trail System for scenic views of Table Rock Lake's dam.

5. Jack's Fork River – Eminence

The 1.8-mile Alley Spring Overlook Trail offers view of, you guessed it, Alley Spring. Bonus: There's a waterfall along the way!

6. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park – Ironton

The Taum Sauk Mountain overlook via Mina Sauk Falls Trail offers stunning views of the St. Francois Mountains.

7. Glade Top Trail in Mark Twain National Forest – Ava

This 23-mile trail (it's a byway so don't worry, you can drive it) offers views of the rolling countryside.

8. Trail of Tears State Park – Jackson

Take the 9-mile Peewah Trail for commanding views of the Mississippi River from the bluffs.

9. The Ozark Trail

The 300-mile Ozark Trail includes many scenic overlooks. Two highlights include those found from Jerktail Loop Trail, which offers views of the Current River. Bonus: This trail is meant for horses!

10. Eagle Bluffs State Park – Columbia

Head to the Overlook Trail– here you'll find a scenic overlook of the river valley. Warning: the hike to get there isn't easy, but it's worth it!

To explore more of Missouri's natural beauty, check our state's top byways, lakes and swimming holes.