Hercules-Glades Wilderness

The Hercules Glades Wilderness protects some of the most scenic landscapes in Missouri. It features open grasslands, forested knobs, steep rocky hillsides, limestone outcroppings, and a maze of narrow drainages carved by water. The high points of Coy Bald and Pilot Knob rise over 600 feet above Long Creek, one of only two year-round water sources; the other is Cane Creek. Spring brings vibrant blooms of redbuds and dogwoods, while fall transforms the area with the brilliant colors of smoke trees and maples. Prairie grass glades punctuate forests dominated by eastern red cedar and oak, providing habitat for deer, raccoons, rabbits, squirrels, turkeys, and quail. Copperheads and rattlesnakes are present, and rare sightings include roadrunners, tarantulas, and collared lizards. As Missouri's second-largest Wilderness area, Hercules Glades is small but easily accessible, with 31 miles of maintained foot and horse trails covering nearly every ridge and hollow. An unnamed primary east-west trail is easy to follow from parking lots on either end. Hiking is moderately challenging and backcountry camping is permitted. Group size is limited to 10 people, and overnight visitors cannot occupy any single location longer than 14 days within a 21-day period. Do not camp within 100 feet of any water source, trail, cave, rock shelter, or occupied campsite, and campfires or wood-burning stoves are prohibited within 100 feet of trails. Caves may not be entered unless posted open. As of November 5, 2024 the area was temporarily closed due to high water and flooding.