Devils Backbone Wilderness Trail - Hiking trail near West Plains, Missouri, United States - Description

Four Trailheads provide entry to Devils Backbone Wilderness: Collins Ridge and McGarr Ridge are part of the Ozark Trail. Thirteen miles of maintained foot trails follow Devils Backbone and four other ridges, dropping off into surrounding hollows in a forest dominated by oaks, hickories and shortleaf pines. The difficulty level is moderate. Wilderness is secluded; the trail has few signs and trail markers, and can be difficult to follow. Wilderness has inherent dangers. Know where you are, land carry whatever you need to be self reliant. Be aware of hunting seasons, ticks, mosquitoes, and poisonous plants.

There are 13 miles of moderate trail within the area accessable from McGarr Ridge Trailhead. Foot, and horseback travel only, no motorized or mechanized use. .

From West Plains, MO take Hwy CC west approximately 15 miles of Hwy 63 to McGarr Ridge Trailhead.

From West Plains, MO take Hwy CC west approximately 16 miles of Hwy 63 to North Fork Recreation Area, where Blue Ridge trailhead leads into the wilderness. The trail combines 2 loops totaling 11 miles.

From West Plains, MO take Hwy CC west approximately 18 miles of Hwy 63 to Raccoon Hollow trailhead provides access to the west side of the wilderness.

From West Plains, MO go 10 miles west on Hwy K, then 4 miles on Hwy KK, turn onto dirt County Road for about 1.5 miles to Collins Ridge is the southern trailhead.