Trail Map and Directions

Distances between Trailheads
(via trail)

Springfield to Willard = 6 miles
Willard to Walnut Grove = 10 miles
Walnut Grove to Wishart = 8.5 miles
Wishart to Bolivar = 11.5 miles
Springfield to Bolivar = 35+ miles

Directions to Springfield Trailhead

A small paved trailhead parking lot is located in northwest Springfield on West Kearney Street, just west of US-160 (West Bypass).

The trailhead is located on the city bus route and is very close to the Courtyard by Marriott. Springfield has full services and many hotels. Downtown Springfield is about 5 miles away and worth checking out. A unique atmosphere is flourishing on South Avenue's old-fashioned main street. You can eat at a variety of restaurants, get a homebrew at the "Springfield Brewing Company", see a play at the historic "Landers Theater", get ice cream, go ice skating, visit the new independent film theater "The Moxie", play video games at the hip arcade "1984" and much more.

Directions to Willard Trailhead from Springfield

Go north on US-160 (West Bypass) to Willard. Exit right to the downtown business district. Trail parking is available at the paved trailhead next to Willard High School on Jackson Street.

Willard has a grocery store and several restaurants, including the extremely popular "Downtown BBQ" at Mile Marker 6, across from the trailhead on Jackson Street downtown.

Directions to Walnut Grove Trailhead from Springfield

Go north on US-160 (West Bypass) past Willard, then turn north (right) on Highway 123. After approximately ten miles, turn east (right) onto BB Highway in Walnut Grove. Parking is available at the gravel trailhead located on BB Highway, a quarter-mile east.

You can also take Highway 13 north from Springfield or south from Bolivar to BB, then go west approximately 10 miles to the trailhead on the south side of BB as you enter Walnut Grove.

There are minimal services in Walnut Grove, but you might swing by the "Dinner Bell" (say hi to Diana, the owner and mayor!) or the convenience store. The newest addition is the trail's first bed and breakfast & bunk house, the"Ridge Runners Rest Stop", near Mile Marker 20. Call them for more information (417)694-2464.

Directions to Wishart Trailhead from Springfield

Go north on Highway 13 to Highway 215. Go west on Highway 215 to Morrisville. Take 111th Road north to 514 Road. Go west on 514 a mile or two and you'll see the tiny parking area. FYI - This is a very primitive trailhead. No services in Wishart except a pop machine so far.

Directions to Bolivar Trailhead from Springfield

Go north on Highway 13 to Bolivar. Take the Highway 32/Business 13 exit. Go east. Near downtown, the street passes under the gaily-painted former railroad bridge (now the northernmost trail bridge). Immediately east of the underpass, make a right into the trailhead parking area.

Bolivar has full services, including a hospital, several restaurants such as "Kathy's Pasta" and "El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant" and a Wal-Mart.