We all love a good road trip. Rolling down the windows. Turning up our favorite music. Enjoying the open road, which is particularly perfect when there aren't many others out driving. Have you ever wondered, "where are there waterfalls near me?" The following road trip pairs two breathtaking natural wonders - caves and waterfalls. It will take you to a variety of Missouri caves and waterfalls, which happen to be some of the most impressive natural wonders in the state. If you love the outdoors, you're going to want to add this road trip to your bucket list.
You can find the directions from Google Maps, which you can easily customize to meet your interests and needs.
If you're up for a leisurely road trip, you'll probably love this journey that will take you more than 550 miles in just about 11 hours. You'll visit some of the most impressive caves and waterfalls in Missouri. Off we go!
1. Marvel Cave – Branson
You get two for one – a cave and a waterfall at Marvel Cave in Branson. It's quite interesting to learn that there are waterfalls in caves in Missouri. Known as the deepest cave in Missouri, Marvel Cave measures 505 feet deep. You can join a guided tour of the cave, which features a waterfall illuminated in different colors, but you must be physically fit. The tour includes climbing hundreds of stairs, but the rewards are certainly worth experiencing it. Find the official website of Marvel Cave.
2. Rocky Falls – Winona Township
Our next stop takes us to Rocky Falls. (Visiting in the warmer months? Don't forget your bathing suit!) To reach the waterfall, you'll have to follow the short .01-mile Rocky Falls Shut-Ins Trail. The waterfall is a popular swimming hole in the summer, although it's beautiful to visit any time of the year. Read more about Rocky Falls from the National Park Service.
3. Mina Sauk Falls – Acadia Township
Our next stop takes us to Mina Sauk Falls, the tallest waterfall in Missouri at 132 feet. To reach the mountain tucked in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, you'll head out on the three-mile Mina Sauk Falls Trail. The predominately shaded trail is dotted with babbling brooks and some rocky terrain. For the most beautiful views of Mina Sauk Falls, visit after a recent rainfall. Check out the official website of Taum Mountain State Park.
4. Fisher Cave – Sullivan
Join a guided tour of Fisher Cave in Meramec State Park. This breathtaking cave features everything from bear claws molded in the cave's wall to columns that tower 30 feet above the ground. Visit the official website of Fisher Cave.
5. Bridal Cave – Camdenton
You might want to bring a sweater or a jacket for your visits to the caves on this road trip, as most maintain a temperature that hovers around 60 degrees Fahrenheit all year long. Join a one-hour guided tour of Bridal Cave, where you'll get a close-up look at the cave that also offers evening lantern tours. Stop by the official website of Bridal Falls.
6. Fantastic Caverns – Springfield
Our final cave stop takes us to Fantastic Caverns, which bills itself as "America's Ride Thru-Cave." The guided tour features a Jeep-drawn tram, so you won't have to worry about getting tired from walking. During the nearly one-hour tour, you'll see giant columns and intricate natural formations. Learn more about Fantastic Caverns.
7. Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden – Springfield
Our final stop brings us to a place that offers tranquility and natural beauty. Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden also features a cascading waterfall. Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the lush garden that features foot bridges, stepping stones, and ponds. Check out the official website of Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden.
Have you ever been to any of these Missouri caves and waterfalls? If so, what did you think about them? Please feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below. Also, what other Missouri caves and waterfalls would you add to this road trip? Let us know in the comments below.
For another fun adventure, embark on the winery and waterfalls road trip in Missouri. You're going to love it!
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