Explore the natural beauty of the Lake area by checking out some hiking trails this fall! The weather is finally cooling off and now is the perfect time to hit the trails. Even if you’re not an avid hiker or adventurer, you can still enjoy the natural beauty of the Lake of the Ozarks State Park! Below you’ll find a list of Lake of the Ozarks hiking trails that are each less than 2 miles long, with a moderate trail rating.
1. Bluestem Knoll Trail
Forming a 0.75 mile loop, with an estimated hiking time of 33 minutes, Bluestem Knoll Trail gives hikers an idea of how the area looked when settlers first arrived. You’ll see widely spaced trees, tall native grasses and wildflowers! Trailhead GPS Location: 38.11747, -92.56118
2. White Oak Trail
This quiet, shaded trail creates a 0.9 mile loop along a ridgetop. You’ll likely see various woodland animals such as northern fence lizards, three-toed box turtles or eastern chipmunks. Estimated hiking time is 39 minutes, however, the trail does connect to Fawn’s Ridge Trail for those wanting a longer hike. Trailhead GPS Location: 38.08376, -92.56348
3. Shady Ridge Trail
Spanning 0.9 linear miles, the Shady Ridge Trail is known for it’s beautiful lake views! White and black oaks shade the trail as you meander along the shoreline. The trail connects the Public Beach 2 area with the Pa He Tsi area of the park. Estimated hiking time for this trail is 42 minutes. There are so many great options for Lake of the Ozarks hiking trails! Trailhead GPS Location: 38.11933, -92.66455
4. Fawn’s Ridge Trail
Fawn’s Ridge Trail features two sections, the first of which is a level 0.6 mile one-way, wheelchair accessible section. It runs from the campground to the picnic area along Highway 134. Dominant plants on this trail include native white oaks, mockernut hickories, tick trefoils and elm-leaved goldenrods. The second section of the trail veers off to make an additional 0.6 mile loop winding along wooden slopes and ending at the campground. The total trail is about 1.3 miles, with an estimated 58 minutes hiking time, unless you wish to add on White Oak Trail for a longer hike. Trailhead GPS Location: 38.08187, -92.56807
5. Lake Trail
Per it’s name, the Lake Trail follows the shoreline and provides beautiful views of the water. Part of the trail is densely shaded and covered in ferns, while the other portion is open. In addition to the natural history, you’ll also see remnants of a former scout camp and a Civilian Conversation Corps structure that now serves as a shower house for campers. This trail is 1.3 miles, with an approximate 59 minutes to complete the loop. Trailhead GPS Location: 38.13010, -92.62109
6. Lake View Bend Trail
From towering dolomite bluffs and steep rocky slopes to gentle slopes through the woodlands, the Lake View Bend Trail offers amazing diversity and spectacular views of the Lake! Native columbines and ferns, as well as white-tailed deer and fox squirrels, are commonly found along this trail. The trail is a total of 1.5 miles, with an estimated hiking time of 1 hour and 7 minutes. Trailhead GPS Location: 38.07618, -92.57070
7. Rocky Top Trail
One of the most popular Lake of the Ozarks hiking trails, Rocky Top Trail quickly climbs to one of the largest glades in the park! The trail crosses through a small ravine and reaches up to a magnificent overlook on the Lake. The trail consists of two loops that intersect for a total of about 2 miles. Estimated hiking time for this unique trail is approximately 1 hour and 31 minutes. Trailhead GPS Location: 38.11375, -92.66838
If you’re looking to head to the Lake area for some hiking this fall, be sure to consider Your Lake Vacation for all your Lake of the Ozarks lodging needs! From small condos to larger houses, we’ve got options to match your group. Give us a call at 573-365-3367 and we’ll match you with one of the most perfect places to stay at Lake of the Ozarks!
Nightly Vacation Rentals at the Lake of the Ozarks:
Experience the Difference
4571 Osage Beach Pkwy
Osage Beach, MO 65065
Phone: 573-365-3367
