Marvelous Mountains and World-Class Attractions Shine on This Road Trip Through the Missouri Ozarks

Although it’s relatively small (just 137 acres), Elephant Rocks State Park is fascinating; the park’s named for a series of granite boulders that formed a billion-and-a-half years ago. These huge rock formations are lined up end-to-end and are said to resemble a group of elephants marching in a column (hence, the name).

Personally, I didn’t see the elephants, but I find the boulders fascinating. Hike the short loop trail to learn more about this geological phenomenon.

From incredible rock formations, you’ll drive to the top of Taum Sauk Mountain, which is the Show Me State’s highest point. A short hike through the woods leads to some of the most dramatic views in Missouri. Enjoy sweeping vistas across the wooded hills, mountains, and valleys of the Ozarks from almost 1,800 feet above sea level.

Blue Spring is an incredible natural wonder that is unlike anything I’ve seen elsewhere. The water is shockingly clear—and, as advertised, blue. At more than 300 feet, it’s also one of the deepest natural spring wells in the United States. The constant upwelling of water is what lends the spring its color and clarity - and prevents it from freezing for the most part. The short trail through a copse of trees to reach the spring makes for a nice walk, as well.

Stop for the night at the Honeysuckle Inn, located in the small community of Mountain View. It’s a clean and modern hotel with an adjacent park, and it’s only a block from a golf course. The hotel is about the midpoint in your journey, so it's a great location to stop for the evening.

The first stop of day two will come after a bit of driving. You’re heading right into the heart of the Ozarks and the tourist town of Branson, Missouri. It’s popular for a reason: the town is surrounded by immense natural beauty. One example of this is the city of Branson’s Waterfall Hiking Trail. Aptly named, the trail follows Roark Creek through a lush green forest to an unnamed tributary that tumbles into the creek in a lovely little cascade.

The ultimate destination of this Missouri Ozarks road trip is home to one of the cleanest, clearest lakes in the Show Me State. Table Rock State Park is located just outside of Branson, and is home to miles of scenic trails, scads of iconic Ozark scenery, and, of course, the eponymous lake. Spend the rest of your day hiking, exploring, and maybe even doing a little fishing before you pack up the car and head home.