5 Missouri Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter
By Beth Price-Williams|Published December 16, 2022
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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.
We’ve all been there. Cold weather, snow, icy roads, and treacherous weather have kept us indoors. Although the snow is spellbinding, it just doesn’t seem to stop. All we can focus on is the countdown to spring. Cabin fever has officially set in. Combat that restlessness by setting off on one of these Missouri day trips that are even better in the winter… just be sure to bundle up with your warmest winter essentials!
1. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park – Middle Brook
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, Hwy. CC, Middle Brook, MO 63656, USA
A dose of fresh air paired with gorgeous snow-dusted scenes promises the perfect way to spend a winter day. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, home to the tallest point in Missouri and Missouri’s tallest waterfall, makes a picture-perfect winter day trip. Dress for the weather, including by wearing a pair of sturdy shoes, for your journey along the Mina Sauk Falls Trail, a nearly three-mile trail that’s brimming with natural beauty. It can be a bit challenging, so be prepared for rough and icy terrain. You don’t have to hike the whole trail either; the waterfall sits at around the halfway point. Read more about one of the best winter hikes in Missouri.
2. Splash Country Indoor Waterpark – Branson
Splash Country Indoor & Outdoor Waterpark, 1945 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, USA
Summer’s all about sinking our toes in a sandy beach and relaxing in cool water, something many of us miss during the cold days of winter. That’s what makes Splash Country Indoor Waterpark in Branson so cool. We can enjoy a bit of summer in the dead of winter. The waterpark offers a full menu of fun – a pool, lazy river, dumping bucket, and slides. Learn more about this indoor waterpark in Missouri in our previous article.
On those brutally cold days when going outdoors doesn’t seem like a good idea, but you don’t feel like being stuck at home, make your way to this indoor park in Branson. The 40,000-square-foot trampoline park promises fun for the whole family. Jump on the trampolines; play a game of dodgeball, or just relax as the kiddos play. Take a peek at the fun that awaits at this indoor amusement park in Missouri.
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4. Lone Wolf Trail – Ballwin
Lone Wolf Trailhead, 1401 Kiefer Creek Rd, Ballwin, MO 63021, USA
Winter hiking may be even cooler than summer hikes. The trails aren’t usually as busy; you don’t have to worry about the heat; and the landscape is magical covered in snow. One of the best winter trails in Missouri, Lone Wolf Trail tallies 1.7 miles through Castlewood State Park in Ballwin. Beautiful scenery awaits along the path that will take you past Kiefer Creek and to sensational views from several bluffs. Read more about this picturesque winter hike in Missouri.
Eureka is a prime destination all year round. However, it’s truly a winter playground in Missouri, offering quite a few outdoor attractions. Spend the day snow tubing or skiing at Hidden Valley Ski Resort, or glide around the ice at the ice rink at nearby Brookdale Farms. Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots, either, because you won’t find a better way to explore this picturesque small town in Missouri. Read more about this winter playground in Missouri.
What are your favorite Missouri day trips? Tell us about them in the comments! If it’s your first winter here, take a peek at some of the things no one tells you about surviving a Missouri winter.
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