We went to Henning Scenic Overlook on a Thursday afternoon around 3-4pm. We had flown into Springfield, Missouri the previous Sunday (coming from Naples, Florida) and then drove to Branson, Missouri for the week. We stayed on Table Rock Lake. We had driven by Henning Scenic Overlook numerous times during our trip and thought about stopping but never did. On this afternoon, we were not in a hurry, and decided to pull over and take a look. The parking lot says a little ways back in off of the road and there were probably about 3 to 4 other cars in the parking lot when we arrived. When we went to the pavilion to look out at the Ozarks, we then noticed there was a little path That you could get to by walking down about five or six steps from the pavilion. My kids wanted to venture down the path and take a hike/little nature walk which we decided to do. My kids are ages 15, 13 and 10-years-old. I’m glad that they suggested that we do this because it ended up being pretty cool. The path felt like you were fire removed from downtown Branson and like you were in your own little reserve. We saw three baby possums which my kids were excited to see. It was a perfectly shaded area, so you weren’t too hot and there were not any bugs. The path was pretty big and probably would’ve gone a long ways but we only walked about half a mile. If you are going to walk down the path, I would highly recommend wearing tennis shoes or shoes that are stable to hike or walk in. The path is full of trees with thick roots that stick up out of the ground and also rocks that are jagged that are easy to trip on. It is extremely beautiful though and if you are able, you do not want to miss it. It is one of the few free things to do around town. It’s a nice spot to teach your kids about land conservation. This overlook is highly rated and I believe that’s because of how well-maintained it is and how clean it is. It is extremely family friendly. It would be a great place to have a picnic with your family or to even take a book to read. I highly recommend checking out Henning Scenic Overlook. I hear that Missouri has many locations and overlooks you can pull over to check out the beautiful landscape. I wish we would have taken time...
Read moreFree, natural hiking area on the western side of Branson. A total of about 7 miles of interconnected rocky, dirt trails at the middle of the crescent-shaped parking lot. Each of these trails is marked by different color signs, so be aware and stay on trails to keep nature well-preserved. It's nice for us because those before us took care of it. ;-) At the north end of this parking lot, by the entrance is a shorter, paved walking path of about a mile with a couple of switchbacks and a decent climb in elevation at one point. While the paved path is covered in blacktop, it can be slippery when covered in leaves (which is common since this hike goes through forest areas). Eventually, it turns to a short loop trail with a small clearing and an old metal outlook tower. Anyone willing can climb the five levels and enjoy a unique view of Branson and the surrounding hillside. It is pretty and surely can be more interesting with a set of binoculars since this tower is far from any Branson landmarks. A maintained hike area and tower that make a unique experience alone or with family and friends. In addition to the lookout tower, the short loop trail at the north end also has a plaque commemorating the occasion of those who sadly died in the December 1999 plane crash at Dewey Bald/Henning area. This spot in Branson offers good views, clear natural areas, and is a wonderful place to enjoy exercise and time alone or with loved ones on...
Read moreThis place is awesome and the trails are top notch .HOWEVER if you do go on the trails be ready , be prepared and get some sort of good map of the place , the signage on the trails are in need of more detailed mapping and directions. i took my family on the "short trail" which stated it was .4 miles no biggie right? well we ended up hiking more than 3 miles because the signage was so bad some in our group nearly over heated!!! now while i do not blame the park for us not being properly prepared for a hike. i will defend my actions by saying i would have never took my family that far in had it not been for the poor signage on the trails. i really love this place but they could do better with the trail signage.. i would not recommend ever just relying on their...
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