This Scenic 190-Mile Drive Just May Be The Most Underrated Adventure In Missouri
By Beth Price-Williams|Published May 08, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Free time’s often at a premium, which means we have to make the most of every moment. Sure, we have those times when we just want to sit back and do absolutely nothing, but what about when we’re yearning for an old-fashioned adventure? How about setting off on this scenic drive that might be the most underrated adventure in Missouri? Drive a section or the whole trail through Missouri; stop at interesting destinations, or drive straight through. It’s up to you.
Stretching nearly 4,900 miles, the Lewis & Clark Trail, a national historic trail, wanders through 16 states, from Pennsylvania to Oregon, and passes through Kentucky, Missouri, Kansas, and the Dakotas.
When you’re up for an epic adventure, follow some of the nationwide trail on foot or on a driving tour. This 190-mile route will take you through just a small portion of the route, from St. Louis to Sullivan.
Start your drive in St. Louis and, for some of the best views in the city, go to the top of the Gateway Arch. Drink in the gorgeous views; visit the museum at the base, and then explore Gateway Arch National Park.
Continue your drive to nearby St. Charles, where you can learn more about Lewis & Clark’s Expedition at the Lewis & Clark Boat House & Museum. Then grab a bite to eat at Lewis & Clark’s American Restaurant.
Head back on the road that leads to the oldest town in Missouri, Ste. Genevieve. The Welcome Center is ideal for getting a feel for the town and ideas of where to explore.
Be sure to also stop by The Lewis and Clark Expedition Across Missouri Historical Marker on Kingsman Drive.
Adjacent to Mark Twain National Forest, Potosi is the next stop along this scenic drive in Missouri. If you only have time to do one thing, travel to the top of Hughes Mountain for breathtaking views.
The final stop on this portion of this scenic drive leads to Sullivan, perhaps best known as the home of Meramec Caverns and Meramec State Park, both of which are worth a visit.
Do you agree that a journey along the Lewis & Clark Trail is one of the most underrated adventures in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! If you’re up for an epic adventure of another kind, how about setting off on the Katy Trail, a 240-mile trail in Missouri?
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