Ozark Trail (MO) Permit: Route
Ozark Trail (MO) permits are walk-up only in Ozark Trail, Missouri. The route covers 430 miles.
This guide covers the Ozark Trail, Missouri permit.
3-5 weeks for the full trail; most thru-hikers do the 230-mile Mark Twain National Forest backbone in 2-3 weeks
Duration
430 miles
Distance
moderate
Difficulty
About Ozark Trail (MO)
Not the gear brand: this is Missouri's Ozark Trail, a 230-mile contiguous corridor of 13 sections on the Mark Twain National Forest, part of a wider 430-mile statewide system. No permit or fee to hike it.
The Ozark Trail (MO) route
- Distance
- 430 miles
- Route type
- point-to-point
- Trip length
- 3-5 weeks for the full trail; most thru-hikers do the 230-mile Mark Twain National Forest backbone in 2-3 weeks
- Difficulty
- moderate
Points along the route
- Onondaga Cave State ParkMile 0, 797 ft
- Courtois SectionMile 48
- Trace Creek Section
- Middle Fork Section
- Karkaghne Section
- Devils Tollgate1,096 ft
- Blair Creek Section
- Current River Section / Stegall Mountain1,348 ft
- Big Spring, Ozark National Scenic Riverways431 ft
- Between the Rivers Section
- Eleven Point Section / Eleven Point River530 ft
- Marble Creek Section
- Taum Sauk Section / Taum Sauk Mountain1,772 ft
- North Fork Section
- Victory Section
- Wappapello Section (western edge of Mark Twain National Forest)353 ft
Ozark Trail (MO) permit detailsandAll Ozark Trail, Missouri permits
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This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for Ozark Trail (MO)?
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Yes, a permit is required. Walk-up permits are available at the trailhead or visitor center, but arrive early as they may be limited.
How long is the Ozark Trail (MO) route?
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The route is 430 miles, as a point-to-point.
How difficult is the Ozark Trail (MO) route?
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This is a moderate route, requires good fitness and some outdoor experience.
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