Branson, Missouri
I chose Branson, Missouri originally, simply because it was a convenient place to stop for a week on my way back from Texas.
What I found, was that it’s a cool little town, with some great scenery and trails.
The property that I stayed at was a one bedroom condo on the south end of town, and although it was functional, it was just a basic stay for me. Nothing great, nothing terrible, but not a property that I need to highlight.
The Area and My Adventures
I got to Branson on the Saturday before Memorial Day and it was busy. Branson is a touristy town and I could see that there was plenty to do in town and around town, but that is not my deal.
If you have smaller kids or you are looking for place that has the mini golf, water parks, shopping, etc., definitely check it out. I also saw a variety or restaurants that could easily fulfill whatever appetite that you have.
What I was looking for was the natural beauty, and I found it.
The start of this trail is located on the ground of Dewey Short Visitor Center, and if you walked the entire trail, it’s about 4.4 miles, out and back.
I didn’t walk the entire trail, because I had other places that I wanted to visit, but it’s an easy walk, it’s quiet ad peaceful and there are som very nice lake views.
It’s a trail that is paved and is friendly for kids and dogs on a leash.
This was a fun trail, and although it was busy, it was really enjoyable.
There had been some rain in the area in the previous days, so the trail was a little wet and there are some areas that you need to walk through the creek to get across. It’s not very deep (below my knees and I am 6’2”) and I was just careful as I was crossing so that I didn’t slip on any rocks.
The waterfall area is where everyone gathered and for good reason. Based on other areas that I have visited, it was nice to see a waterfall that had a decent flow of water.
I carefully walked up to the top and was able to get a few really nice pictures from a different view.
And there is another smaller waterfall on the opposite side.
True beauty.
This was the end of my day.
Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area
“Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area is located in the heart of Branson and offers a nature escape with 140 acres of wooded and rugged hill country and 5.3 miles of trails. Both visitors and local citizens can enjoy this unique park with its two woodland trails that wind through the forest and along bluffs.”
There are a few different trails, but I chose The Bluff Trail.
This trail was listed as “challenging,” due to the stairs and the narrowness of the trail, but it was beautiful.
And a cool little bridge that led down to the main part of the bluff.
The end result was really cool.
It was a nice trail and a great way to end the day and my visit to Branson.
I seem to say this quite a bit, but there is so much to see in Branson and I really didn’t even scratch the surface. Whether it is one of the many activities in town, a great restaurant or the natural beauty, Branson, Missouri and has something for everyone.
