An Hour From Branson Is Missouri's Only National Forest Scenic Byway With Access To The Ozarks And Idyllic Nature

Tucked away in the Ozarks is Missouri's only National Forest Scenic Byway, where you can drive through a landscape peppered with one of the state's most notable geologic features. The Glade Top Trail is a 23-mile gravel road just an hour from the glitzy and kitschy entertainment of Branson, making this a perfect day trip for those who want to take a break in idyllic nature. The byway winds through ridge tops overlooking rolling hills, lush forests, and exposed dolomite and limestone bedrock glades that give the trail its name.

Glades are essentially sunshine-filled clearings in wooded areas — and Missouri is full of them. They're made of exposed bedrock covered by vegetation that can withstand both heat and frost, so they're home to some of Missouri's rarest plants. The area traversed by Glade Top Trail is filled with some of the largest preserved glades in the U.S. Keep an eye out for them as you enjoy panoramic views of the Springfield Plateau and Arkansas' Boston Mountains, all visible from Glade Top Trail. Besides that, Glade Top Trail is located in the Mark Twain National Forest, where you'll find hiking trails and crystal-clear springs. 

Beyond stunning views, the byway also rolls past hiking trails and dispersed camping spots. Places like the Willie Lee Campground just off the byway offer dispersed camping and access to the 16-mile Bateman Trail, which takes you through glades, streams, and wooded areas. So, whether you're camping or just cruising, you may want to bring good hiking shoes, insect repellent, and other essentials, in case you feel inspired to head out onto one of the trails.

While there are a number of easy scenic byways to do at least once, Glade Top Trail didn't make the cut because it's not necessarily the easiest drive. Instead, it's a gravel road with narrow stretches and occasional cattle guards. The good news is that the road is maintained enough for most cars to navigate (including sedans), but if you plan to take any detours, you may want 4WD. And if you're driving a rental car, be sure to check the contract since many companies don't allow driving on unpaved roads.

Glade Top Trail is a great adventure for people of all ages. Seven turn-offs offer stunning views for everyone to enjoy, especially when wildflowers bloom in warmer months. Keep an eye out for the wildlife, too, since wild turkeys, roadrunners, and lizards populate the area. Those with kids can download the Agents of Discovery app and look up the Caney Picnic Area along the byway — it's a great place to stop for a snack and the view. This educational app sends you on a nature- and science-based "mission" around this picnic area, letting kids explore the environment in a fun way. Just be sure to download it before hitting the road since cell service can be spotty along the byway.

According to the Forest Service, there are three different points from which you can access Glade Top Trail. The most popular is from the northeast, where you can enter the byway about 20 minutes south of Ava. The south access point is just outside of Longrun, while the west one is off State Highway 125 between Rueter and Bradleyville. Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) is the closest major airport, and it's just a 1.5-hour drive.