Hiking the Ozark Trail in Taum Sauk Mountain Section, Missouri

Hiking the Ozark Trail through the Taum Sauk Mountain Section offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience Missouri’s rugged natural beauty and connect with the highest point in the state. This section of the trail is known for its dramatic vistas, cascading waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems, making it one of the most iconic stretches of the Ozark Trail. Located in the heart of the St. Francois Mountains, the trail provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Adventure Guide to Hiking the Ozark Trail

• Taum Sauk Mountain Highpoint Trail:
  This trail leads directly to Missouri's highest point at 1,772 feet. While its elevation isn’t extreme, its significance and the views from the surrounding area make it a key highlight. The most stunning feature here is the Mina Sauk Falls, a 132-foot seasonal waterfall that is Missouri’s tallest and a great spot for photography during wet months.
  Key Feature: Well-marked trail with interpretive signs about local geology.

  • Difficulty: Moderate.
  • Duration: Approx. 3 miles round trip.

• Devil’s Tollgate:
  A unique geological feature located about a mile into the Taum Sauk section of the Ozark Trail. Massive 30-foot-wide volcanic rhyolite rocks create a striking formation, offering photo opportunities and a supreme example of the region's ancient geological history.
  Key Feature: A must-stop landmark for geology buffs.

  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult.
  • Duration: Part of a longer hike (approximately 14.5 miles if aiming to complete the Taum Sauk loop).

• Johnson's Shut-Ins Spur:
  This spur trail connects the Taum Sauk section with the wildly popular Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, where hikers can cool off in natural rock pools carved by the Black River. Although technically a detour, it offers scenic resting and recreation opportunities.
  Key Feature: Natural swimming areas and picnic spots.

  • Difficulty: Moderate.

Local Insights

• The Taum Sauk Mountain area is part of one of the oldest mountain ranges in North America and formed over 1.5 billion years ago.
• Many hikers aim to visit during the fall for stunning colorful foliage, though spring also impresses with wildflowers and flowing water at Mina Sauk Falls.

Visitor Tips

• Best time to visit: Late October for fall foliage or spring after rains for active waterfalls.
• What to bring: Sturdy hiking shoes, trekking poles, water, and a first-aid kit. No cell service—carry a paper map.
• Directions: From St. Louis, take I-55 S to MO-32 W (approx. 2 hours).