Missouri Conservation Area Loop Hike

Day, Date:  Saturday, December 6, 2025

Name of Hike:  Henning Conservation Area Loop Hike

Hike Leader: Sue Hubbard 831-737-4792 shubbard@redshift.com

Location:  Ruth & Paul Henning Conservation Area Scenic Overlook near Branson, MO

Type of Hike:  Day-hike, trail.

Hiking Distance:  6 miles.

Maximum Elevation Difference:  748 feet

Difficulty:  Moderate due to distance, rocky areas and roots. There are several stream crossings but they should be easy to cross unless there is significant rainfall right before the hike.

Hike Description: This hike is a loop in an area managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation. It starts at a scenic overlook with views of Branson and goes through a large dolomite glade, continues alongside a stream and descends into an area with several old homestead sites and hand-dug wells.

Meeting Places and Times:

• Meet at Root Elementary School, Mission Blvd in Fayetteville for a 7:45 am departure; or,
• Meet at at Kings River Country Store in Marble AR for an 8:30 am departure; or,
• Meet 10:00 a.m. at the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area Scenic Overlook off MO Hwy 376 between Branson and West Branson. The entrance is on the east side of the road and marked by a large sign.  If using Alltrails make sure to use a trailhead that starts at the Scenic Overlook.
• Note:  From Fayetteville/Springdale, take Hwy 412 and Hwy 65 to Branson. From Bentonville/Rogers take Hwy 86 and Hwy 13 to West Branson.

Google Map to Trailhead at Henning Overlook:  Click on “Location” below.

Driving Distance: 95 miles, roughly 2 hrs from Fayetteville

Comment:  Bring water, snack, lunch, rain gear, gloves, and wear hiking boots/shoes.  Hiking poles may be helpful.  No pets are allowed on any hikes, and children under 12 years are discouraged and must be accompanied by a guardian.   Participants are required to sign a liability release at the trailhead to take part in any Ozark Society outing.  Everyone is welcome to hike with the OSHC, whether an Ozark Society member or not.