Explore This Secret Trail Around The Largest National Forest In Missouri

With so much rugged outdoor space in Missouri, it probably comes as little surprise that there are hidden gems that we don't even know about, sometimes until we stumble upon them. This forest trail in Newburg, Missouri is a good example of a delightful secret waiting to be uncovered. It poses a bit of a challenge, but the rewards - from sensational views to peace and quiet - more than make up for the obstacles along the way.

Mark Twain National Forest is so vast, tallying 1.5 million acres, that it's inevitably hiding some pretty spectacular secrets, including Kaintuck Hollow Trail.

The entire trail clocks in at 16 miles and is broken into several segments, including the 8.8-mile Kaintuck Hollow Acorn Section.

If you're in search of peace and quiet, you'll likely find it on this moderately challenging trail that doesn't tend to get much foot traffic. I'd recommend planning at least three hours for your journey.

Horseback riding is allowed on the scenic trail.

Those hours will include a few obstacles, including rocky terrain, narrow sections on the trail, and an abundance of ticks.

If you're hiking during the warmer months, you definitely want to invest in tick repellant. When you finish this dog-friendly trail, be sure to check both your clothing and your pups for ticks.

Along with the challenges, though, comes some awe-inspiring scenery. Snap photos of a chiseled cave, and...

You'll deal with some water crossings, too, where you'll likely get wet, so keep that in mind when deciding what to wear. The trail can also get quite muddy.

Stroll past fields of wildflowers and under canopies of trees.

Reward yourself with a leisurely picnic at one of the tables in the forest.

While there's no designated camping along Kaintuck Hollow Trail, you can camp anywhere in the forest. Dispersed camping is permitted; however, you won't have access to any amenities.

This picturesque path scores glowing reviews in all seasons, but the U.S. Forest Service cites spring and fall as the best seasons for exploring.

Learn more about Kaintuck Hollow on the official website of the U.S. Forest Service.

Have you hiked this forest trail in Newburg, Missouri? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! If you're up for even more adventures in the forest, follow this scenic drive through Mark Twain National Forest. Then take a peek at some of the best trails in Missouri on AllTrails.