Wander Through The Forest And Marvel At Wildlife On This Fairy Tale Trail In Missouri

Storybook settings aren't too tough to find, especially in Missouri's beautiful natural areas. When you follow this fairy tale trail in Missouri, you'll wander through lush forest that's absolutely breathtaking in all seasons. Along the way, you'll likely even pass some of the local wildlife as the birds serenade you on your journey.

Stroll through lush forest on the Matson Hill and Oxen Trail Loop, which meanders through Matson Hill Park in Defiance.

The five-mile trail scores a moderate rating from hikers, due to terrain changes and some muddy areas, which are especially challenging after a rainfall.

You'll definitely get a workout on this trail that boasts a lot of hilly areas and inclines.

Lather on the bug spray (and bring it along) as the picturesque trail can get quite buggy, and keep an eye out for ticks.

The trail offers an abundance of shade, a welcome reprieve from the hot sun, especially during the summer.

This is a picture-perfect trail in all seasons. Don't forget your camera to snap photos of the colorful landscape of autumn.

Wintertime often means more wildlife than people - and a few challenges. You might want to use trekking poles when it's icy and after a snowfall.

Only one thing rivals the breathtaking beauty of the natural scenery along the scenic trail, and that is the wildlife.

If you're lucky, you'll cross paths with deer, turtles, turkey, and maybe an armadillo or two.

Visit the Matson Hill Park website for more information.

Do you have a favorite fairy tale trail in Missouri? Tell us about it in the comments! Next time you're up for an adventure, visit this small town in Missouri that is known for its murals.