Glade Top

Glade Top is the one and only National Forest Scenic Byway in the state of Missouri.  Situated in the Mark Twain National Forest, just south of Ava, MO, this 23-mile trail takes you along the ridge tops of the Springfield Plateau and provides incredible views of the glades (clearings in the forest filled with sunlight) within.  On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the Boston Mountains to the south in Arkansas!

Glade Top is a mild trail that is suitable for all vehicle types.  That said, there are many off-shoot trails surrounding the main trail that require high-clearance, 4x4 equipment.  With a proper vehicle setup, you can easily spend a weekend camping and exploring the trails in the area.  Please head over to the forest service link further down on this page for additional trail and camping details.

While on Glade Top, you'll come up on nine marked waypoints.  We've listed and linked them here for additional information.

The Mark Twain National Forest is  really a treasure in the Missouri Ozarks.  We highly suggest driving the trail in the Spring or Fall when the foliage is full of color. Given the number of different ways you can approach Glade Top and the surrounding trails, it makes a fantastic destination for hard-core wheels, overlanders, campers, and afternoon picnickers alike.

If you're interested in more, check out this video from @BudgetOverland as they explore Glade Top with @marktwainmafia1743!