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Welcome to Glade Top Trail, a National Forest Scenic Byway in Missouri!
This 23-mile Scenic Byway is named for the beautiful glades that surround the ridge tops where the Scenic Byway traverses.
Along the trail are seven overlook “pull-outs” that provide panoramic views that reach to the Springfield Plateau twenty miles to the northwest and forty miles south to the Boston Mountains in Arkansas. Visit the detail stop links below for more about each of the views.
The Glade Top Trail is little changed from the original road constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the late 1930’s. For twenty-three miles, the two-lane, all weather gravel road follows narrow ridge tops rising approximately 500 feet above the surrounding rolling countryside, and overlooks and passes through many limestone/dolomite glades interspersed with open and closed woodlands.
Great area to explore! The trail takes you through some absolutely beautiful country. The picnic areas are clean and in good condition. It's a fun adventure for the whole family.
Great time!! Beautiful views. The trail we were on was a long one. Wasn't sure if we were ever going to get out but we did. Found a really neat old cemetery that seems to be a lost and almost forgotten one.
Beautiful fall foliage this year ('23). Nice place for a daytime road trip. Several places to stop for a picnic or to get out and walk the pup.
