The best walks and hikes in Reynolds County
4.8
(5)
100
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking in Reynolds County, Missouri, offers trails primarily within the Mark Twain National Forest, characterized by forested hills and river features. The region includes notable natural landmarks such as Mina Sauk Falls and the geological formations known as shut-ins. Elevation changes are present, with routes traversing various mountains like Bell Mountain, Goggins Mountain, and Taum Sauk Mountain. This landscape provides diverse terrain for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails in Reynolds County
- The most popular hiking route is Mina Sauk Falls…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
6
hikers
21.0km
05:56
350m
630m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
9.12km
02:41
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
16.8km
04:34
260m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
516m
00:08
10m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
42
hikers
4.86km
01:23
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
9
hikers
19.2km
05:31
480m
480m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
6.53km
01:50
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
17.6km
04:52
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6.58km
01:47
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
hikers
4.65km
01:16
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in Reynolds County
Tips from the Community
A rugged trail that travels through Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. Bluffs with steep drops, steep climbs, and stream crossings make up much of the terrain with great views of the forest from some of the high points along the trail.
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A natural cascading waterfall that flows over molten rock that erupted to the surface 1.5 billion years ago. The falls expeience a heavy flow after it rains. The site is very popular and has bathrooms, picnic tables, and fire grills.
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This is a small turbine mill built in 1928 by Walter Klepzig. The mill is located in a beautiful setting on Rocky Creek that is surrounded by a shut-in canyon that is formed by the rock in the creek.
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The eastern portion of this trail runs along the East Fort of the Black River which flows through rock formations that form natural water pools and chutes which are called "shut-ins".
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Located in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, these falls at 132 feet are the tallest waterfall in Missouri. The view over the top of the waterfall offers an impressive view of the St Francois Mountains.
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Lindsey Mountain is the 2nd highest point in the Bell Mountain Wlderness and offers great views from it's summit.
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This is a 9,143 acre wilderness with Bell Mountain at the highpoint of 1,702 feet. The wilderness has about 12 miles of hiking trails with outstanding views from Bell and Lindsey mountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails in Reynolds County?
Hiking in Reynolds County primarily features dense woodlands within the Mark Twain National Forest. You'll encounter forested hills, river features, and notable natural landmarks like Mina Sauk Falls and unique geological formations known as shut-ins. The landscape includes various mountains such as Bell Mountain, Goggins Mountain, and Taum Sauk Mountain, offering diverse terrain and elevation changes.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for families in Reynolds County?
Yes, Reynolds County offers several easy, family-friendly hikes. For example, the Mina Sauk Falls Trail loop is an easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) route featuring Missouri's highest waterfall. Another accessible option is the Shut-Ins Trail loop, a 4.0-mile (6.5 km) trail through unique geological formations.
Where can I find waterfalls while hiking in Reynolds County?
The most prominent waterfall in Reynolds County is Mina Sauk Falls, Missouri's highest. You can experience it on the Mina Sauk Falls Trail loop, an easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) hike. Another option that includes Mina Sauk Falls is the longer Mina Sauk Falls – Taum Sauk Mountain loop from Iron County.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers in Reynolds County?
Yes, Reynolds County offers challenging options for experienced hikers. The Bell Mountain Loop Trail — Mark Twain National Forest is a difficult 11.9-mile (19.2 km) path with significant elevation gain through rugged, forested terrain, perfect for those seeking a strenuous adventure.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Reynolds County?
The hiking routes in Reynolds County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 7 reviews. Hikers often praise the dense woodlands, scenic waterfalls, and distinctive geological shut-ins that define the area's trails.
Are there any loop trails available in Reynolds County?
Yes, many trails in Reynolds County are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Popular loop options include the Mina Sauk Falls Trail loop, the Bell Mountain Loop Trail, and the Shut-Ins Trail loop. You can also explore the Goggins Mountain Trail loop for a moderate experience.
What is the best time of year to hike in Reynolds County?
While specific seasonal information for Reynolds County is not detailed, the Ozark region generally offers pleasant hiking conditions in spring and fall. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, and fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter hiking is possible but may involve colder temperatures and potential for ice or snow.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Reynolds County?
The provided guide data does not specify dog-friendliness for individual trails in Reynolds County. Generally, trails within the Mark Twain National Forest allow leashed dogs, but it's always best to check specific regulations for the particular trail or park unit you plan to visit before heading out.
What are the typical trail difficulties found in Reynolds County?
Reynolds County offers a range of trail difficulties. You'll find easy routes like the Mina Sauk Falls Trail loop, moderate options such as the Goggins Mountain Trail loop, and difficult trails like the Bell Mountain Loop Trail. This variety ensures there's something for every skill level.
What kind of natural landmarks can I explore on hikes in Reynolds County?
Reynolds County is home to several distinctive natural landmarks. Hikers can visit Mina Sauk Falls, Missouri's highest waterfall, accessible via the Mina Sauk Falls Trail loop. The region also features unique geological 'shut-ins,' which are narrow channels carved through resistant rock, best experienced on the Shut-Ins Trail loop.
Are there any long-distance hiking opportunities in Reynolds County?
While many trails are shorter loops, Reynolds County does offer longer routes for those seeking more distance. The Bell Mountain Loop Trail is a substantial 11.9-mile (19.2 km) hike, and the Goggins Mountain Trail loop covers 10.9 miles (17.6 km), providing good options for longer excursions.
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