Fall Destinations: Ozark Mountains – Missouri

The Ozark Mountains are a spectacular place to visit in the fall. By mid-October, the oak, maple, and hickory trees transform the mountain landscapes with the shades of orange, gold, and crimson. The region is extremely popular during the summer months, so fall is the perfect time to take advantage of recreational opportunities in the area with fewer crowds. Whether you prefer to take a scenic drive, hike, or train ride, you’ll find the perfect fall activity in the Ozarks.

– Take a Scenic Drive on the Glade Top Trail, which is Missouri’s only National Forest Scenic Byway. The 23-mile trail darts around corners and through ridges, following the rolling countryside. The trail has seven overlooks to stop along the way, all with panoramic views.

– Dogwood Canyon Nature Park covers 10,000 acres in the Ozark Mountains. A must-visit for nature lovers, the park is a perfect destination for the autumn months to hike and bike and see cascading waterfalls, hand- built bridges, and clear streams. Take the family on a guided nature tour, hike to a scenic location, or spend the afternoon trout fishing.

– Board the Branson Scenic Railway, a 40-mile roundtrip excursion through Ozark foothills and tunnels. While traveling, you’ll hear about the history of the area as you traverse bridges and trestles. Book a dome car for the best views of the fall foliage and travel in style in unique cars dating from the late 1930’s to the early 1960’s.

– Spend the day at Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival from September 23 – October 31. The festival kicks off with craft days, chuckwagon cooking demos, and thrilling rides into the night. Don’t miss thousands of illuminated pumpkins with non-frightful fun for the entire family!

– Explore an underground cavern! The Branson area is home to some of the best caves in the United States. The caves have adjusted capacity to allow for social distancing. Your choices include: Fantastic Caverns, Marvel Cave (in Silver Dollar City), Smallin Civil War Cave, or Talking Rocks Cavern. Bring a jacket, the temperatures will be brisk whether you are walking on lighted paths or riding in a Jeep-drawn tram (Fantastic Caverns).

After a busy day in the Ozark Mountains, check into a cabin at the Big Cedar Lodge. This is a destination hotel, so plan on spending a few days exploring the property with activities for the entire family. Enroll the kids in a four-hour session at the Kids Adventure Club, or bring the entire family to Fun Mountain. Get on the lake for a boat cruise or rent a boat from the marina and enjoy watersports galore. End the day at Buffalo Bar or Osage Restaurant at the Top of the Rock area of the resort.