The United States certainly has a wealth of amazing natural destinations, with some of the most awesome national parks in the world. Legendary places like the Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon or the Yosemite are famous among travelers that love the wild outdoors. Nevertheless, there are also some astonishing lesser-known natural heavens hidden throughout the territory of the US. One such example is the Mark Twain National Forest, covering a large area of southeastern Missouri. A complex area that features a variety of forested hilly landscapes, the Mark Twain National Forest offers a wealth of activities and attractions. With over 750 miles of trails that allow visitors to explore the area by hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding, as well as several trails for motorized vehicles, there are plenty of way to discover the beauty of these forests. The rivers also allow excellent conditions for rafting or kayaking, while travelers will find plenty of campgrounds if they wish to spend more time in this superb destination.
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Also known locally as the Ozarks, the area is mostly rural and has a very authentic atmosphere, far from major cities and usually quite free of large tourist crowds. The highlight of the Mark Twain National Forest is the dense network of trails part of the Ozark system, connecting the most important sights and leading visitors to fascinating places. It is also famous for the natural springs in the area, with more than 3000 springs creating a web of rivers, creeks and lakes that embellish the landscape. One of the most interesting is Greer Spring, the second largest in the area and located in a splendid natural area. There is a trail going towards the spring and visitors can also admire the rich biodiversity of the area on the way. Throughout the Mark Twain Forest, there are 7 designated wilderness areas, where human impact should be minimal so there are certain regulations in place to limit some activities. These areas provide an insightful immersion into the wild soul of the forest.
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Among the most enjoyable and inspiring trails inside the national forest, travelers can experience the Lower Rock Creek Trail, with its splendid creek that forms a beautiful waterfall or the Blue Spring Trail that takes visitors to the crystal-clear blue spring, passing through some astonishing natural areas. Arguably the best way to discover the wonders of the forest is on horseback as people will get a unique and intimate experience. On some trails, travelers could also encounter some of the wild species of animals inhabiting this region, including deer, bobcats and foxes, to name only a few. The variety of trees and flora species also means that this natural area changes its aspect each season, being especially enticing during spring and fall. The dense network of rivers also means the Mark Twain National Forest is a heaven for those who like to fish, with plenty of species to tackle. Overall, this is one of the most enchanting, yet still unknown natural destinations in the United States.
