Join Ozark National Scenic Riverways for a variety of hiking opportunities this fall. All activities and events are free of charge and pre-registration is not required.
Fall is a great time to try the Current River Challenge hike/float adventure. This self-guided activity includes three “legs” to complete: a 4-mile hike from Round Spring to Echo Bluff State Park, a 4-mile hike from Echo Bluff to Current River State Park, and a 4-mile float from Current River State Park to Round Spring. Hikers can pick up an informational map brochure at any of the three park sites. At the conclusion of each “leg” participants will stamp their map at designated kiosks. After completion of all three legs, participants can present their stamped map at the Round Spring Ranger Station to receive an award recognizing the accomplishment. The Current River Challenge is a self-guided activity that can be completed at your own pace, in any order and timeframe desired. It can be completed in one day or over multiple days.
Local fall hiking activities include:
Oct. 9: Echo Bluff State Park to Current River State Park
Meet at 10 a.m. at the lodge at Echo Bluff State Park to hike the second leg of the Current River Challenge. ORF will offer hikers a “quick start breakfast” prior to departure. This 4-mile hike concludes at Current River State Park where participants can collect their completion stamp. A shuttle back to Echo Bluff State Park will be provided by ORF.
Oct. 16: Fall Colors Hike
Enjoy spectacular fall colors along the Cave Spring Trail. Meet at Devils Well at 10 a.m. to hike 2.2 miles to Cave Spring and then return using the loop trail (2.7 miles) for a total of approximately five miles.
Oct. 23: Prairie Hollow Gorge
Prairie Hollow Gorge is a hidden gem within Ozark National Scenic Riverways, located on State Highway V east of Eminence, approximately 1/2-mile from the Two Rivers Campground. Hikers will have a chance to view the gorge from above and from the bottom of the canyon, for a total hiking distance of approximately 1 mile. The gorge provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the geologic history of the Ozarks. Due to limited parking at the trailhead, hikers should meet at the Two Rivers Campground at 10 a.m. for shuttling to the gorge.
