If you ask us, it doesn't get much better than hitting the open road for a long, leisurely drive unless, of course, you're exploring the best waterfall hikes in Missouri! The best part is that you don’t have to wonder where the most beautiful waterfalls in Missouri are because the following waterfall loop will take you there. This trip to see some amazing Missouri waterfalls is best completed over a few days since you’ll travel the length of the state. It leads straight to the best waterfalls in Missouri as well as other sunning state sites, including Taum Sauk Mountain State Park and Missouri Botanical Garden.
Don’t have time to travel the entire route? No problem. You can customize this scenic waterfall road trip in Missouri to your needs.
1. Parkville Nature Sanctuary – Parkville
Our scenic waterfall loop starts at Parkville Nature Sanctuary, where you’ll have to slip on your walking shoes. To reach the cascading waterfall, follow the Old Kate & Waterfall Trail, which, at just under 1 mile, is not just one of the best waterfall hikes in Missouri but one of the easiest too, making it perfect for hikers of all ages and all skill levels. Stroll along the boardwalk flanked by trees, until you arrive at the waterfall. (The waterfall is typically much stronger after a rainfall.)
Midwest Journeys takes us on an adventure to the Parkville Nature Sanctuary for the short hike on the Old Kate & Waterfall Trail in this video:
2. Missouri Botanical Garden – St. Louis
Earmark plenty of time for your visit to Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis. You can find a beautiful, flowing waterfall in the Japanese Garden. The garden is an ideal spot to spend a few hours or an entire day, as you admire the colorful flowers, footbridges, and winding paths.
3. Mina Sauk Falls – Arcadia Township
A 3-mile hike awaits that will lead you straight to the tallest waterfall in Missouri. Cascading down 132 feet, Mina Sauk Falls provides the perfect backdrop for photos. The Mina Sauk Falls Trail features some rocky terrain, so be prepared for something of a challenge. After you’ve seen the waterfall, consider making your way to the highest point in Missouri – also at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
Let's hike to the tallest waterfall in Missouri on the Mina Sauk Falls Trail in this video from Unearth The Voyage:
4. Rocky Falls – Winona Township
Rocky Falls is simply gorgeous all year round, but in the summer it serves as a natural waterpark for those looking to cool off. Stroll just one-tenth of a mile along the Rocky Falls Shut-In Trail to the waterfall that drops 30 feet. One of the best swimming holes in Missouri, you can expect it to be busy on the hot summer days. Even though it may be busy, you can still cool off in the clear water.
5. Dogwood Canyon – Lampe
Our next stop takes us to Dogwood Canyon, where you’ll have to pay for admission into the nature park. However, you’ll get to see two waterfalls that will simply take your breath away. The waterfalls are gorgeous any time of the year, but they’re particularly breathtaking when surrounded by fall foliage, which is why Dogwood Canyon is one of the best day trips in Missouri.
6. Grand Falls – Joplin
Grand Falls is another must-visit waterfall in Missouri. You can wade and cool off in the pool into which the waterfall tumbles. The picturesque waterfall drops 12 feet, although it measures 163 feet across. You can reach it within just a few minutes by foot, or admire it from your car in the parking lot, if you’re short on time.
Enjoy the peaceful sight and sound of Grand Falls in Joplin, Missouri in this video from Shore Me Some More:
7. Tryst Falls Park – Excelsior Springs
The waterfall loop ends in Tryst Falls Park with the picture-perfect Tryst Falls. Tucked near Kansas City, Tryst Falls is one of the area’s only natural waterfalls, making it more than worth a visit. Bring a picnic along, too, so you can sit near the waterfall and enjoy the sound of it as it tumbles down.
After a good rain, many of these waterfalls in Missouri really come alive. Whether you enjoy scenic drives with waterfalls right near an overlook, or you like to get out on a good hiking trail to immerse yourself in nature, Missouri has some pretty amazing places to explore with waterfall rewards. Are there any other can’t-miss hiking trails with waterfalls in Missouri that you have fallen in love with? Let us know!
If you’re up for another adventure, follow this route to the best caves and waterfalls in Missouri.
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