by The Ozark Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in America, and with good reason. With scenic vistas and unique rock formations, this trail offers a wide variety of natural wonders that are sure to take your breath away. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to enjoy the solitude of nature or an exciting way to challenge yourself, the Ozark Trail has something for everyone.
The trail is home to a range of wildlife, including deer, turkey, squirrels, and raccoons. You may also be able to catch sight of bears, making it a favorite spot for hiking with wildlife enthusiasts. Be sure to respect the animals and their habitat by keeping a safe distance from them and using caution when approaching any wild animal.
Founded in 1913, the Ozark Trails Association was established by Arkansas tourism entrepreneur William “Coin” Harvey at a meeting of good road men from four states that took place in Monte Ne, Ark. The group had the idea to create a trail that would connect the cities of St. Louis and Louisville to the Arkansas border. This was the first organized plan for a long-distance hiking trail in the United States and the idea quickly caught on.
In 1976, representatives from various agencies came together to discuss the concept of a long-distance hiking trail. The first meeting at Meramec State Park resulted in the first draft of the trails proposal and just four years later, the first sections of trail were under construction. Since then, the Ozark Trail has grown to include more than 350 miles of hiking and backpacking in Missouri and Arkansas.
The trail passes through a variety of natural and historic areas, including state parks and wildlife management areas. It also crosses private lands, and the trail managers for each parcel of land determine the conditions on which the Trail can be used. Currently, the trail has no permit, parking, or registration requirements for users.
Unlike most hiking trails where you can find a cell signal, the Ozark Trail is completely off the grid and requires the use of traditional tools like maps and a compass. This provides a true escape from the distractions of technology and is one of the main reasons people hike the trail.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended backpacking adventure, the Ozark Trail has several campsites to choose from. Many of these sites are located near streams, offering a perfect spot to cool off after a long hike. Be sure to bring plenty of water and food for your hiking trip, as the trail can be challenging in some places. For more information about the Ozark Trail, visit their website. The trail is well-marked, making it easy to navigate. You can also download a free map of the trail from HiiKER, a free app that will help you plan and navigate your next hiking adventure. You can even use the app to share your trail photos with other hikers! Ozark Trail Customer Service
