Take A Hike To A Missouri Mountaintop That’s Like A Fairy Tale
By Beth Price-Williams|Published June 29, 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.
A journey to a Missouri mountaintop promises plenty of twists, turns, and jaw-dropping beauty. If you follow this beautiful Missouri trail, you’ll be treated to an abundance of gorgeous views and somewhat of a challenge. The popular trail is quite lengthy and doable in day, or you might want to pack your backpack for a night under the stars.
Tallying just over 11.5 miles, the Bell Mountain Loop Trail wanders through Mark Twain National Forest and can usually be completed in around five hours.
Whether you opt for a day trip or an overnight, you're pretty much guaranteed a unique adventure as you pass an array of scenery - colorful wildflowers, lush trees, and local wildlife.
The trail does earn a moderate rating predominately due to the fact that you'll do a lot of climbing to reach the mountaintop. Make sure you bring a sufficient supply of water, food, and sunscreen.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, too, as the beginning of the trail is particularly rocky. Watch your step as you follow what's considered a well-marked path.
You'll pass a variety of terrain - from glades to forests - as you hike. Stop for a breather by a creek, or take in the views from one of the rock formations.