Mark Twain National Forest
Mark Twain National Forest
The Mark Twain Forest was established on September 11, 1939 and is named after the famous Missouri native Mark Twain, author of works such as “Tom Sawyer” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” Located in the southern half of Missouri, and in parts of 29 counties, Mark Twain National Forest has a wide range of popular recreation opportunities. The forest has over 750 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and motorized use. The trails vary in length, use, and difficulty.
Approximately 200 miles are completed of the 500-mile Ozark Trail, connecting from St. Louis to the Arkansas border. Plans are to connect the Missouri section with the Ozark Highlands Trail in Arkansas.
The Forest also has more than 350 miles of perennial streams, most suitable for floating with canoes, kayaks, rafts, and inner tubes. The Forest and Missouri Department of Conservation maintain river accesses on popular streams.
Did You Know?
From his experience as a licensed river pilot, Samuel Clemens chose the pen name by which he his best known – Mark Twain. The term “mark twain” means it is safe to sail because the water’s depth is two fathoms, or 12 feet.
AMENITIES
Hiking | Cycling | Horseback Riding | Camping | Floating | Kayaking | Canoeing
Preparing for the Trail
Hiking or Cycling can be a strenuous activity. Be sure to prepare before heading out!
- Always let someone know where you are going, and when you plan to return.
- Bring plenty of water and food, and don’t overdo it.
- Download/print a map of the trail section beforehand, as you will not have cell service on much of the trail.
