Explore natural wonders, see historic sites, be charmed by small towns and just get away from it all in the Arcadia Valley.
Morning
A. Elephant Rocks State Park
Work up a sweat climbing around these giant, billion-year-old granite formations. The name comes from the fact they stand end-to-end like a train of red circus elephants at this park. A self-guiding trail (with Braille signage) winds among these geologic wonders.
B. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park
After climbing around at Elephant Rocks, cool off with a dip in the shut-ins area of this popular park. The shut-ins create unique formations, and fun swimming spots, on this section of the Black River.
Afternoon
A. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park
At an elevation of 1,772 feet, this is the highest point in Missouri. The state's highest wet-weather waterfall, Mina Sauk Falls, is a highlight of this scenic rugged park.
B. Pickle Springs Natural Area
This 256-acre Designated Natural Area offers a two-mile Trail Through Time, with scenic views including sandstone cliffs, canyons, arches and waterfalls. Activities include bird watching and nature hiking. Some of the interesting geologic features include a double arch, narrow slot-like canyons, hoodoos (mound or pillar-like sandstone blocks, weathered into unusual shapes), a flowing spring and sandstone talus slopes.
Evening
A. Plain and Fancy Bed and Breakfast
This 1908 farmhouse has four guestrooms. Features include: a hot tub overlooking Stouts Creek; a gazebo; a patio with fire-pit; full breakfast.
B. Koinania Valley Ranch Family Resort
Koinania offers three lodging options: A three-bedroom, two-bath cottage (sleeps 11); a three-bedroom, two-bath ranch house west wing (sleeps 12); a three-bedroom, one-bath ranch house east wing (sleeps nine) and the lakeside cabin (sleeps four). Each unit includes a fully equipped kitchen and all linens. These cottages and cabins are situated on 110 privately owned acres in the Arcadia Valley.
C. Wilderness Lodge Resort
The Wilderness Lodge features lush expanses of rolling green hills, squiggly back roads, serpentine rivers and a log lodge built in the 1920s. Try roughing it Wilderness Lodge style, in your own rustic cabin with cozy beds, a fireplace, and a screened porch overlooking the Black River.