Staff Reports
Ozark National Scenic Riverways will host fall and winter trail events throughout the national park.
Visitors can explore trails independently, or participate in these events.
The fall hiking season will kick off with a celebration on Sept. 15 at Round Spring and will continue with special activities nearly every weekend through early November. Activities and events are free of charge.
Trails have always been an important feature of the community, according to organizers. People in local communities are connected by a system of roads, trails and water routes. Trails are also a major attraction for people who visit the area. Many come to float and paddle on river trails. Horse enthusiasts travel from great distances to participate in area trail rides. The Ozark Trail passes through the park and local communities. Volunteer groups attract hundreds of people to build and maintain trails.
According to the American Hiking Society, countless studies and research consistently show regular exercise not only improves overall health and fitness, but lengthens and improves the quality of life. Regular physical activity substantially reduces the risk of dying of coronary heart disease, and decreases the risk for colon cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure. It also helps control weight; contributes to healthy bones, muscles, and joints; helps to relieve the pain of arthritis; reduces symptoms, of anxiety and depression; and is associated with fewer hospitalizations and physician visits.
For more information about events, contact Dave Tobey at 573-323-8093, visit the park's Facebook page, or website at www.nps.gov/ozar.
Trail Activities
Sept. 15-16:
Fall Kickoff and
Trail Celebration
* 9 a.m. both days, meet at north end of the pedestrian bridge at Round Spring
Explore the trails along the Upper Current River with park rangers and volunteers from the Ozark Trail Association as they prepare for a fall Ozark Trail Mega Event. A trail celebration will follow Saturday evening at the Bluff Top Pavilion at Echo Bluff State Park at 6 p.m.
Sept. 22 and 29:
National Public
Lands Day Activities
* 9 a.m. both days, meet at Round Spring Ranger Station
Celebrate National Public Lands Day (Sept. 22) by working on several trails in the park on both Sept. 22 and Sept. 29. Volunteering on National Public Lands Day is an opportunity to spend time outside with family and friends, connect with neighbors, and enjoy the benefits that come with the satisfaction of giving back. Volunteers can choose to help with trail maintenance, litter collection, or river cleanup. Bring a lunch and enjoy the day outdoors. An informal gathering will be held at the conclusion of each work day.
Saturday, Oct. 13:
Ozark Trail Assoc.
Mega Trail Building Event at Round Spring
* 8 a.m., meet at Round Spring campground
Join the Ozark Trail Association at Round Spring as they begin building the new hiking trail from Round Spring to Echo Bluff State Park. Free camping for project volunteers is available in a designated group campsite.
Fall Hiking Series
Sunday, Oct. 7:
Fall Hike from Owls Bend to Klepzig Mill and Rocky Falls
* 10 a.m., meet at the Ozark Trail trailhead located at the end of Shannon County Road 533, south of Owls Bend access.
The hike to Klepzig Mill will be 5 miles, or continue to Rocky Falls for an 8-mile hike.
Sunday, Oct. 14:
Round Spring Spur
of the Ozark Trail
* 10 a.m., meet on the pedestrian bridge at Round Spring
Hike the Round Spring spur trail of the Ozark Trail. A guide will be a former resident of the old Lewis Farm, which is located along the trail. This hike will be approximately 4 miles.
Sunday, Oct. 21:
Fall Colors Hike
* 10 a.m., meet at Devils Well
A 2.2-mile hike to Cave Spring, while enjoying the fall colors. Hikers will return using the loop trail (2.7 miles) for a total of approximately 5 miles.
Saturday, Nov. 3:
Hike to Honor
Veterans
* 10 a.m., meet at Rocky Falls
Brief flag ceremony, pack a lunch and hike 2.5 miles on the Ozark Trail to the top of Stegall Mountain. Following lunch, participants will hike back to Rocky Falls.