The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors 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.
Wanderlust can be triggered by so many things – a sun-soaked day, a memory of a favorite trip, or a sip of our favorite drink. Missouri makes it easy for us to get out and explore, so we don’t have to worry about suffering from that wanderlust for very long. The challenge, however, is deciding where the road will take us next. When you’ve got a few free days, why not set off on this journey? It features the best outdoor adventures & activities in Missouri.
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
Get ready for an epic two-day adventure in Missouri that won’t eat up too much of your gas. If you follow the itinerary as it is, you’ll drive just 89 miles, not including the time it takes to get to the starting point. Drive time is under two hours, but that doesn’t take into account the time you’ll spend at each destination. Whether you follow the itinerary to the T or mix it up a bit, make sure you do one thing – have fun!
Our epic outdoor lover’s road trip kicks off with a visit to Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, the home to the highest point in Missouri and its tallest waterfall. Mina Sauk Falls, which cascades down 132 feet, sits smack dab in the middle of the three-mile Mina Sauk Falls Trail. The trail is considered moderate, but you don’t have to hike the whole thing if you don’t feel like it. Just make your way to the waterfall and then turn around.
After you’ve finished your hike to this beautiful Missouri waterfall, consider driving up to the top of Taum Sauk Mountain, where you’ll find a scenic overlook. Don’t forget your camera because the views that await at the waterfall and the overlook are simply spellbinding.
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Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park
Cool off in a natural pool.
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground, Middle Brook, MO 63656, USA
Our next stop brings us to Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, a particularly popular destination in the summer when visitors cool off in the shut-ins. The shut-ins, which have natural slides and pools, are pretty in all seasons, though. If you plan on getting in the water, make sure you bring water shoes and your swimming gear.
If you’re not in a hurry, consider exploring more of the Missouri state park after you’ve cooled off in the shut-ins. The park is also popular with hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.
Every Missourian – and visitor – has to visit Elephant Rocks State Park, home to a breathtaking natural wonder in Missouri. The crown jewel of the state park is the 1.5 billion-year-old granite boulders that are shaped like elephants lined up in a circus. Little (and) not-so-little ones often climb the rocks, and they make a picture-perfect backdrop for photos.
Our next stop brings us to the charming Old No. 102 Tap House. Try to get a seat on the brick sidewalk outdoors for a unique dining experience. The Missouri restaurant is perhaps best known for its signature pizzas, or you can create your own.
The Old no. 102 Tap House, 102 W Columbia St, Farmington, MO 63640, USA
One glimpse at the menu is sure to get your mouth watering uncontrollably as you browse such tasty options as salads, sandwiches, and pasta. The kiddos even have their own menu, sporting such favorites as cheese pizza, chicken strips, and mac and cheese.
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Silo Farmhouse
Fall asleep in a one-of-a-kind farmhouse in Ste. Genevieve.
Our final stop on this journey to the best outdoor adventures & activities in Missouri brings us to an enchanting silo farmhouse, nestled on a 200-acre farm in the heart of wine country. This one-of-a-kind Vrbo features one bedroom, sleeps up to four guests, and features more than 50 amenities, from heating and A/C to a TV and DVR.
What do you think of this road trip that leads you to the best outdoor adventures & activities in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! Then, when your wanderlust strikes again, find another epic road trip in Missouri.
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