Trail Overview
Scenic Riverways is an 11.1-mile point-to-point route through the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, perfect for high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles and SxSs seeking stunning river views and excellent dispersed camping. Beginning just north of Eminence, Missouri, the trail winds along the Jacks Fork River, climbing from an elevation of 591 feet to a peak of 1,066 feet with over 1,230 feet of cumulative elevation gain. Travelers will navigate a combination of gravel county roads and narrow forest service roads, offering dramatic vistas of the river from towering, overhanging bluff edges. While the overall technical rating is a mild 2, drivers should remain alert on the single-lane sections where passing oncoming traffic requires utilizing tight pullouts.
As the route heads north toward the Current River, it transitions into more rugged terrain with occasional loose, larger rocks and steeper climbs. A four-wheel-drive system is highly recommended for those making the descent down the steep, rocky grade to the Broadfoot campground area. Along the way, numerous dispersed campsites dot the riverside, with several established spots featuring fire rings and lantern posts for a comfortable overnight stay. The route is best visited during spring and fall when the hardwood canopy is vibrant, but it remains a fantastic gateway to water-based activities like kayaking, fishing, and exploring local hollows year-round.
