Natural beauty surrounds us in Missouri. Some of that beauty we can find just by looking around us while other gorgeous parts of the landscape require a little more effort to reach. Arguably boasting the bluest water in the state, Blue Spring in Missouri sits tucked among greenery and chiseled bluffs, easily reached on just a short trail. While it may be hidden from view, it’s certainly well-known among Missourians! Come see one of the most amazing natural wonders in Missouri.

Blue Spring near Eminence attracts visitors from near and far who want to see for themselves the striking blue water of the state’s eighth largest spring and its deepest spring.
All Trails/Daniel White
It measures 310 feet deep, and it couldn't be more beautiful.
For the easiest trek to Blue Spring, park at the Blue Spring Trailhead.
All Trails/Doug Niedholdt
From there, you’ll only have to walk about a quarter of a mile to the spring.
If you prefer a bit of a longer trek, find the Powder Mill/Blue Spring Trailhead, which will lead you on an out and back hike that clocks in at just under three miles.
All Trails/Doug Niedholdt
It's a delightful hike for lots of reasons, but it harbors a particularly wonderful "secret".
Whether you go the short route or the long way around, the trail is considered easy for hikers of all ages and all skill levels.
All Trails/Doug Niedholdt
It's worth every single step... and here's why:

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The first thing you'll notice is that the water is an ethereal blue color, which might just stop you in your tracks.
All Trails/Doug Niedholdt
Why is the water this color? It's because of two factors: one, there are dissolved limestone and dolamite sediments present in the water. Two, the spring is an incredible 310 feet deep! These two factors come together in the perfect way, giving the water a ridiculously blue appearance.
While you can visit the spring any time of the year, you'll find the trail is particularly pretty from the spring through the fall. The leaves also provide a canopy of shade during the warmer months.
All Trails/Courtney Tinnin
During those months, you’ll also be treated to a gorgeous display of wildflowers along the winding path. Keep an eye out, too, for local wildlife.
The highlight of either trail is, of course, Blue Spring, a breathtaking body of water that’s home to a variety of fish including the rainbow darter.
All Trails/Courtney Tinnin
This is definitely one outing on which you don’t want to forget your camera.
Learn more about Blue Spring on the official website of the Missouri Department of Conservation.
All Trails/Lindsey Ulaszek
Or, find an overview of the trail on the National Parks Service website.

Come along for an adventure exploring Blue Spring in 4k:

Do you agree that Blue Spring in Missouri has the bluest water in the state? Have you visited this gorgeous body of water? Let us know in the comments! If it’s clear water you like, you’ll definitely want to plan to spend time at the Black River.

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More to Explore

Blue Water in Missouri

Tori Jane | April 06, 2023
  1. Where can I find springs with blue water in Missouri? 

There are lots of places in Missouri with beautiful, sparkling clear water that often reflects the sky, making it appear blue in hue – but there are only a few springs with literal blue water in Missouri, and one of those is the appropriately-named Blue Spring. You’ll find it near the town of Eminence, and it tends to attract a lot of attention from locals and visitors alike thanks to its remarkably unique appearance.  

  1. Why is Blue Spring in Missouri colored blue? 

This incredible natural wonder in Missouri owes its brilliant appearance to both its mineral content and its sheer depth; it’s 310 feet deep, making it the single deepest spring in the entire state. As for the mineral content, Blue Spring contains dissolved limestone and dolomite as a by-product thanks to the constant erosion going on.  

  1. What are some of the best hikes at the Rocky Creek Conservation Area? 

With more than 40,000 amazing acres of natural wonders, the Rocky Creek Conservation Area is home to four amazing hiking trails. They are:  

  • The Rocky Falls Shut-In Trail – This trek is very short, at just 0.1 miles in length, but it leads to some of the most blissfully beautiful places in the entire park.  
  • The Blue Spring Trail – This hike is just over three miles long and outrageously beautiful. It’s the trail you’ll want to take if you’re seeking the stunning Blue Springs.  
  • The Powder Mills To Rocky Falls Trail – This hike is for more experienced hikers and comes in at 10.4 miles in length. It’s worth the effort, we promise!  
  • The Ozark Trail (Current River Section) - This epic, 29.2-mile hike is part of the much longer Ozark Trail and runs right through the park!  

Get more information about the Rocky Falls Shut-In Trail.  

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Blue Spring, Eminence Township, MO 63638, USA