Mark Twain Lake –. Nature provides us a brilliant palette of colors. Vibrant reds, golden yellows, warm bronzes, rustic oranges, and deep purples drape the landscape, and provide the backdrop for many outdoor adventures. Peak autumn colors generally occur during the second and third week of October. So where can a go to catch the greatest autumn show at the lake? The following are four must-take drives that will provide great views of nature’s splendor.
The Indian Creek Corridor – The 3.5 mile access road of Indian Creek Recreation Area winds itself through an Oak/Hickory forest, and will immerse the visitor in hues of orange, bronze and yellow. From Monroe City, Missouri, travel west on US Highway 24 for six miles, turn south onto State Highway HH for one mile, turn east onto Monroe County Road 581 and travel the road to the recreation area.
Bluffview Route – This six mile trip on State Highway A in Ralls County begins by traversing the top of a forested ridge, but soon opens to provide expansive views of the Salt River Bottom. End the trip at the Bluffview Recreation Area where you will find a backdrop of all the colors of autumn on the adjoining bluff. From Monroe City, Missouri, travel east on US Highway 36 for three miles, turn south onto State Highway J for four miles, then east on State Highway A to begin your journey.
Clarence Cannon Dam – Not as much of a trip as it is a destination, the vistas provided at the overlook and spillway areas of Clarence Cannon Dam will provide a reflective pause as nature’s beauty is revealed. Continue this experience by visiting the M.W. Boudreaux Visitor Center where the observation deck offers views of the lake intermingled with the multi-colored hillsides. Located on State Highway J in Ralls County, nine miles south of Monroe City, Missouri.
Between the Bridges – For those with a little more time on their hands, make plans for an excursion that will cover a 25 mile loop of scenic roadway, and offer spectacular views from three bridges crossing the lake. This journey begins 8.5 miles southwest of Monroe City, Missouri at the north extent of State Highway 107. Travel south to your first stop at the Stoutsville Recreation Area on the end of Monroe County Road 466. Views of North Fork Branch and Otter Creek Peninsula are offered at this location. Continue your trip south on State Highway 107, crossing the Highway 107 North Fork Bridge, and viewing the mature Oak/Hickory forests at Mark Twain State Park. Turn west onto State Route U and experience the beautiful country side offered in Monroe County. The last leg of your journey will turn you east onto U.S. Highway 24 and offer beautiful views as you cross the Otter Creek and the North Fork bridges.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Mark Twain Lake hopes you take advantage of the beauty offered by our region this autumn.
For further information, contact the Mark Twain Lake Project Office at 573-735-4097.