Exploring the Ozark Trail

The Ozark Trail Customer Service is a natural wonderland that offers a truly immersive outdoor experience. From scenic vistas to unique rock formations, there are endless reasons to explore this remarkable destination.

The trail is divided into 13 mostly-linked sections, with a variety of spur trails for additional exploration. This system of natural surface trails allows hikers to travel for a day or spend a week backpacking along the way. This incredible destination offers a range of activities for hikers of all skill levels, from novice to expert.

From the start, the Ozark Trail was designed to accommodate both day- and thru-hikers. The organization was also built around an innovative approach, where land managers are responsible for the trails on their respective property, rather than a single state agency being assigned responsibility for the entire route. This method allows for more rapid trail construction and expansion.

As an added bonus, this method of trail construction is more cost effective for everyone involved. In addition, it reduces the need for costly permits and parking fees which often make long distance hiking less accessible for many people.

This unique approach has a number of other benefits, including the ability for trail volunteers to work on different sections at once. This helps to ensure the quality of the trails and increases the pace at which they can be constructed. This also makes it easier for trail users to access the section of the trail they are interested in, making them more likely to hike the whole trail.

In order to prepare for your hike, be sure to pack plenty of food and water, a first aid kit, a map of the trail, and adequate clothing and footwear. Additionally, be sure to tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. By taking the proper precautions, you can ensure that your hiking experience on the Ozark Trail is one to remember.

As you make your way down the trail, keep an eye out for the obelisks that mark the path. These structures are painted stark white with green accents and display the nearest town name and the distance to each. You can find obelisks in Stroud, Farwell, and Dimmitt, all of which are located on the original route of the Ozark Trail. While these are no longer used as highway markers, they still serve as a reminder of the history of this iconic trail.