Wandering Ozark Scenic Riverways

A brief visit to springs and waterfalls in south central Missouri

An abundance of peace and solitude surrounded the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The season had not yet begun, and with rain expected, very few others were out and about. Arriving relatively early in the afternoon, mostly sunny skies encouraged a quick visit to Rocky Falls Shut-ins and Alley Spring.

Alley Spring and Mill, Ozark National Scenic Riverways

A light drizzle kept things damp most of the next day. It picked up just a little while lingering at Blue Spring, but had apparently been going on long enough prevent access to Powder Mill. The swollen river consumed the crossing.

Blue Spring, Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Returning to Eminence and turning north, the rain subsided enough to enjoy some time at Round Spring. The cave was closed for a few more weeks, but the trail up to the entrance remained open, providing for a quiet hike through the surrounding forest.

Round Spring Cave, Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Minor difficulty getting up the muddy roadway earlier at Blue Spring gave some cause for concern towards the next destination. Some bit of literature or another indicated the path to Devil’s Well was steep and muddy.

The route out of Blue Spring, Ozark National Scenic Riverways

The road started to dive somewhat steeply about a half-mile from the spot. Hiking the remainder of the way, it turned out not so bad and likely would have been no trouble at all. An opportunity to descend into the mouth of this beautiful karst collapse structure, every bit worth any difficulty encountered.

Looking down into Devil’s Well, Ozark National Scenic Riverways

An increasing pace of rain and deteriorating back road conditions prevented continuing to points beyond. It had been a good day scouting about the area though, and no great loss to watch the rain from a semi-protected roost above the Current River for the remainder of the evening.

Current River near Jack’s Fork

The rain continued into the morning of departure, turning mostly cloudy just to the west and north. Near Bennett Spring State Park, sunshine finally broke through briefly, encouraging a visit to this local Mecca for those seeking trout.

Cascades at Bennett Spring State Park

It is fantastic to see some of these places before the “season” winds up around them. Mostly alone on the trails and facilities, the rush of the rest of the world falls away quickly and completely.

National Park Service Map of Ozark National Scenic Riverways

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Further Reading

Ozark National Scenic Riverways
National Park Service