Hercules Glades Wilderness Trail - Hiking trail near Bradleyville, Missouri, United States - Description

Three trailheads serve Hercules Glade Wilderness Trail which loops throughout the Hercules Glades Wilderness Area. Most of the over 31 miles of trails are loops with one portion of the loop following Long Creek, and other parts of the loop climbing its surrounding mountains or hills. The area is rugged and is for experienced hikers only. Before you start, be prepared with adequate supplies; water sources within the Wilderness are not recommended for drinking unless you first treat the water. Please limit your party size to 10 persons. Leave no trace and pack out what you pack in.

No drinking water is available at parking areas or along the trail; bring what you will need, or be prepared to sterilize spring water in the wilderness, if you can find any. Please limit your party size to 10 persons. Leave no trace and pack out what you pack in.

From the trailheads there is a network of over 31 miles of maintained trails, so hikes ranging from 2 hours to 2-3 days can be planned. Cross-country hiking in other parts of the area is allowed. Key attractions along the trails include the Long Creek Falls, panoramic views of the Ozark countryside, and a variety of native communities, including open limestone glades and mixed forests.

From Bradleyville, MO, take Hwy 125 south 8.5 miles to Hercules Tower trailhead, where you will enjoy a panoramic view of the wilderness from its highest point. Campsites, picnic tables, and toilets are provided. The first part of the trail is mostly level, then it descends a slope to Long Creek. Or, take the 4-mile Pees Hollow loop north along the hollow bottom, then back along the ridge.

From Forsyth, MO, take Hwy 160 east 7.5 miles to County Road160-200; go north 2 miles to Coy Bald trailhead. Two campsites and a rustic toilet are provided. Here, you can enter the west side of the wilderness. From Coy Bald, you have several choices of trails and loops.

From Bradleyville, MO, take Hwy 125 south to Forest Road 155 to Blair Ridge trailhead. Descend the ridge to the northwest to Long Creek, and take your pick of several trails and loops.