The Devils Backbone Wilderness is one of
eight wilderness areas protected and preserved in Missouri. It’s part of the Mark Twain National
Forest. The
Devil's Backbone is a long, narrow ridge which sits above two valleys and
provides a fabulous view in either direction. There are 13-miles of maintained
trails to explore and many options that can extend your hike or exploration of
this wilderness area. I’ve only spent a day hiking but others have spent the
weekend or longer exploring the various trails and springs. Primitive camping,
meaning using tents, not campers, is allowed.
There are various spur trails.
These trails
lead to different parts of the wilderness including the one I traveled to the
Ozark Trail. The walk along here was leisurely, as the trail is wide and
relatively level. The climbs were moderate, although there is a fair amount of
ridge walking. As you walk you will see caves of various sizes in the hillsides.
There are some very rugged trails along the Devils Backbone and with elevations ranging from 1.020 feet
to 680 feet, some trails are steep. There is also three designated trailheads that give access to the Devils Backbone Wilderness (Raccoon Hollow, McGarrr Ridge, Collins Ridge, as well as Blue Springs in the North Fork Recreation area.
Blue Springs is amazing and yes, it is this blue in color.
 |
| Redbud and Dogwood in bloom |
Ozark Trail as well as
Devils Backbone has year round hiking accessibility but the fall and the spring
offer more temperate climates and lots of color. During the spring there are
blooming dogwood, redbud, wild azaleas and the bright soft green of spring
leafing. In the fall the oaks, sweet gum, and sugar maples offer bright colors
of yellow, orange, and reds.
 |
| Fall trails |
There are a lot of
limestone glades and if you’re lucky, you'll spot white-tailed deer, gray and red
squirrels, raccoons, coyote, red and gray foxes, and bobcats. Usually an
armadillo or two and snakes. We do have two poisonous snakes, copperheads and
eastern timber rattler, these tend to get out of your way rather quickly, and are
easily avoided.
It’s not unusual to spot red-tailed hawks, turkey vultures, and
bald eagles floating on the tail winds. Of course we have lots of wild turkeys.
The forest is filled with songbirds and the walk is accompanied by the music of
the birds, chatter of the squirrels, and various singing insects. Speaking of
insects, we have the biting type like mosquitoes and ticks so using a good
repellant (like deep woods OFF) is smart.
You’ll see many springs,
creeks, rivers, and waterfalls.
The Ozark Trial and Devils Backbone is a gorgeous area to hike and visit.
Photos Missouri Dept of Conservation and personal
