7 Incredible Natural Wonders In Missouri That You Can Witness For Free
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
Getting outdoors and breathing in the fresh air is good any time of the year. When you’re not sure where you want to spend time, plan a visit to one or more of these natural wonders in Missouri. Each boasts jaw-dropping beauty and, perhaps even better, you won’t have to spend a penny. Just bring along your sense of adventure, a pair of comfy shoes, and start exploring these beautiful natural wonders.
Every Missourian, and visitor to the state, has to visit Elephant Rocks State Park at least once, to admire the boulders that are lined up and look like circus elephants. Just as impressive, the boulders are made of granite that dates back more than 1.5 billion years. Follow the short but sweet Braille Trail that will lead you to this jaw-dropping natural wonder. You might even want to take a picnic along for your visit. Find more information on the official website of Elephant Rocks State Park.
Did you know Missouri has its very own Little Grand Canyon? Yep, and it's definitely worth a visit. Grand Gulf State Park in Koshkonong is home to a series of collapsed caves that create a beautiful canyon. Admire views of the canyon as you follow the Interpretive Loop Trail. You can visit the canyon floor, where you'll find a natural bridge. However, there's no official trail to the floor, and the trek down can be treacherous. Plan your trip on the official website of Grand Gulf State Park.
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Taum Sauk Mountain State Park lays claim to the tallest waterfall in Missouri - Mina Sauk Falls, and it's well-deserving of a visit. Set off on the three-mile Mina Sauk Falls Trail that leads to the gorgeous cascade that tumbles down 132 feet. While the trail is predominately shaded by trees, you will run into some rough terrain. The trail is considered moderate. Head over to the official website of Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
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Getting to Rocky Falls in Winona Township is as easy as walking less than .01 of a mile from the parking lot to the flowing cascade. Rocky Falls drops down 40 feet and is popular all year around. However, when the temperatures soar, the pool beneath the waterfall and the waterfall's rocks get incredibly crowded with visitors who just want to cool off. The area also has picnic tables, grills, and bathrooms, so you can make a day of your visit. Stop by the official website of The National Park Service for more information on Rocky Falls.
Nestled in Clifty Creek Conservation Area, Clifty Creek Natural Bridge, flanked by towering green trees, spans 40 feet over Little Clifty Creek. It also stands 13 feet tall, so you can stand under it to admire its natural beauty. To arrive at the natural bridge, however, follow the 2.5-mile trail that meanders through lush woods. Learn more on the official website of Clifty Creek Conservation Area.
For some of the bluest water in Missouri, plan a visit to the absolutely gorgeous Blue Spring, the deepest spring in the state. It's also the eighth largest in the state and, if you've never seen it, it will likely take your breath away. The easiest way to get to the spring is to park at the Blue Spring Trailhead then follow the short quarter-mile trail. Stop by the official website of Blue Spring to learn more.
Johnson's Shut-Ins are the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. In fact, if you've never slid down these natural waterslides at the height of summer, you're in for a huge, refreshing treat. If you prefer to be away from the crowd, escape to one of the small natural pools, and don't forget your inner tube. Visit the official website of Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park for more information.
What are you favorite natural wonders in Missouri that are free to visit? Any that aren’t listed here? Let us know in the comments! While you’re updating your bucket list, you might also want to add these 12 manmade wonders in Missouri that are worthy of a visit.
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Featured Addresses
Elephant Rocks State Park, Missouri 21, Belleview, MO, USA
Grand Gulf State Park, State Hwy W, Koshkonong, MO 65692, USA
Mina Sauk Falls, Arcadia Township, MO 63650, USA
Rocky Falls, Winona Township, MO 65588, USA
Clifty Creek Natural Bridge, 21671 MO-28, Dixon, MO 65459, USA
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, 148 Taum Sauk Trail, Middle Brook, MO 63656, USA