You Can Both Swim and Stroll on This Missouri Trail—It’s Summer Perfection

Missouri has lots of scenic trails and great swimming holes, but what if you want to combine a stroll and a swim? I recommend heading to Branson’s Lakeshore Trail on Table Rock Lake, where you’re promised a great swim in one of Missouri’s cleanest lakes. The best part? Since this easy 2.2-mile trail runs parallel to the lake for its entirety, you can find an uncrowded swim beach all your own. 

Lakeshore Trail runs from the Dewey Short Visitor Center to the Table Rock Lake State Park Marina, with rest stops, restrooms, and scenic views all along the route. Be sure to stop at the beautiful visitor center for a fascinating glimpse into the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' dams, which have created many of the lakes that Missourians love (including me, especially since one of my favorite waterfront campgrounds is along its shores). 

After learning the lake’s history, it’s time to head out to the trail to take in the views and enjoy the refreshing waters. Lakeshore Trail meanders through lush woodlands, which provide shade for your stroll before opening up from time to time to reveal views of the sapphire waters ringed by those ever-present Ozarks hills.

Luckily, even though you’re looking at the hills, this trail is relatively flat, making it an easy stroll. You won’t work up a sweat while searching for your swimming spot. Also, thanks to the smooth asphalt surface, Lakeshore Trail is accessible to those on wheels, whether it be a wheelchair, bicycle, or stroller. Bike racks are located at the trailheads. Also, dogs are welcome, too, and they may be the most excited to hit the waters!

While your eyes will, of course, be drawn to the lake that stretches across the horizon, make sure to look up at the skies, as well. On a recent spring visit, I was surprised to see a bald eagle glide right over my head. Though you’re most likely to see them in winter and spring while they are nesting, some fledglings leave the nest in early summer, which overlaps with swim season at Table Rock Lake. 

Speaking of swimming, let’s talk about the prime opportunities Lakeshore Trail offers. While I love to hit the sands of well-known spots on Table Rock Lake, like Moonshine Beach, I also appreciate that this trail offers uncrowded shores. Along the main trail, footpaths lead through the trees to private beaches. Whenever you’re ready to cool off, just hop in. Since no lifeguards are on duty, use caution. Luckily, most areas of the lake have a gentle slope along the shoreline, making it easy to stay safe in shallow waters. 

You’re sure to work up an appetite with all of that walking and swimming, so pack a lunch or some snacks. There are several rest spots along the trail with benches and picnic tables, or you can spread out a blanket anywhere along the shores. You might catch sight of the Showboat Branson Belle paddlewheel ship floating by since it docks along the trail.

While you can find many trails in Missouri with swimming holes, you aren’t likely to find one that’s as easy and accessible as the Lakeshore Trail. It’s perfect for a beach day, especially if you want a little room to spread out from others. So, grab your swim bag and head to the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail to hop into the cool waters, well away from the crowds. This is sweet summertime perfection!