Looking for a perfect outdoor escape to enjoy the great outdoors in Branson that’s fun and free for hikers, walkers, bikers, and the whole family? Get ready to discover the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail! This amazing paved path offers a fantastic way to experience scenic views and the beauty of the Ozarks, right next to Table Rock Dam and running adjacent to the Table Rock Lake Shoreline.
An Easy wheelchair accessible trail, Branson Path for Hikers Everyone
Located in southern Branson, Missouri, this trail is a true gem. It stretches for 2.2 miles along the eastern shore of Table Rock Lake. It connects the Dewey Short Visitor Center to the State Park Marina. What makes it so special? It’s a paved pathway, super smooth and easy to walk on. The trail is ‘relatively flat’ and ‘very level,’ making it ideal for everyone, including families with small children, and those using wheelchairs or carriages. You can hike, jog, or enjoy a leisurely stroll. The sources highlight this trail as unique in Branson, bringing the Ozarks’ beauty within reach of just about everyone due to its accessibility, convenience, and ease of use.
How to Access the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail and Where Does It Go?
The trail runs between the Dewey Short Visitor Center (northern end) and the State Park Marina (southern end). Starting at the southwestern edge of the Dewey Short Visitor Center parking lot. The trail winds south through the White River Landing home of the Showboat Branson Belle, through the Table Rock State Park, ending at the State Park Marina on Table Rock Lake.
Conveniently and Safely Experience the Nature and Beauty of the Ozarks
As you explore, you’ll be treated to gorgeous sights! The path winds under a lush tree canopy through Table Rock State Park. You’ll pass ‘glades and dry woodlands’ with oaks over 200 years old. Imagine walking among Eastern Red Cedar, Short Leaf Pine, Hickory Trees, Sycamore, and even Flowering Dogwood and Redbud, especially vibrant in spring!
While the trail follows the lake, offering ‘good views’, actual lake viewing can be “sporadic” because the trail is separated from the water by 15 to 40 yards of trees and brush. But that’s part of its charm – the changing scenery! Each season offers a different experience from spring bursting from winter, full of freshness to the vibran vivid colors of an Ozarks fall.
The Table Rock Lakeshore Trail is a fantastic spot to see birds and wildlife. Common sightings include red foxes, armadillos, skunks, Eastern Gray Squirrels, fence lizards, chipmunks, ospreys, various ducks, Pacific Loons, and Turkey Buzzards. Walking closer to the lakefront might reveal smaller birds like Robins and Eastern Bluebirds. Remember, what you see depends on ‘Mother Nature and the season’!
Where to Hike Near Table Rock Lake
The Table Rock Lakeshore Trail is a result of collaboration between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, and Herschend Family Entertainment Inc., but your outdoor fun doesn’t stop here! Nearby the Table Rock Trail, you can picnic, find miles of trails, including those at Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery and the White River Valley Trail System. If you want to travel for a few minutes, you can explore Branson’s Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area or the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area.
What are the highlights of the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail?
The Table Rock Lakeshore Trail features stunning views of Table Rock Lake, diverse wildlife, and picturesque landscapes. Hikers can enjoy well-maintained paths, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for photography. The trail offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers and is perfect for both casual strolls and more adventurous hikes.
