EMINENCE — Celebrate National Trails Day at Ozark National Scenic Riverways on June 4 and 5 with a ranger-led birding hike at 9 a.m. each day at Round Spring.
Bring your binoculars and meet at the Round Spring pavilion. A park ranger will lead the group though the Round Spring area in search of a variety of bird species.
With over 400 species recorded in Missouri, birding is a great outdoor activity for people of all ages. Whether you are starting in your own backyard or hitting the trails within Ozark National Scenic Riverways, you are sure to see and hear several species. Migratory birds are still passing through the area, providing the opportunity to encounter some that aren’t commonly seen in the park.
If you are new to birding, there will be several resources available to get you started on your blissful birding journey.
Plan accordingly when hiking or participating in any outdoor recreational activity. Hikers should wear appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking and take weather conditions into consideration. Recommended supplies include binoculars, drinking water, snacks, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways follows the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and any corresponding federal mandates in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. All participants should be prepared to practice social distancing as needed. If you are not yet fully vaccinated, masks are required outdoors when social distancing cannot be maintained.
For more information about the birding hikes, please contact the Round Spring Ranger Station at 573-323-8093.