Whether you’re searching for a hidden waterfall, a bluff-top overlook, a quiet wetland, or a challenging backcountry hike, a new guidebook aims to help outdoor enthusiasts discover the best of Missouri’s natural landscapes.
Published by Reedy Press, Scenic Natural Wonders of Missouri: Lakes, Trails, Caverns, and Vistas highlights more than 80 destinations across the Show-Me State. Written by award-winning environmental journalist Don Corrigan and featuring photography by Diana Linsley, the guide combines practical travel information with the stories behind some of Missouri’s most remarkable places.
Readers will find destinations ranging from Blue Spring, Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Tower Rock, Hughes Mountain, and Big Oak Tree State Park to lesser-known gems such as Claire Gempp Conservation Area, Pickle Springs Natural Area, Roger Pryor Pioneer Backcountry, Allred Lake Natural Area, and Mingo National Wildlife Refuge.
The book explores Missouri’s diverse landscapes — from roaring rivers, spring-fed streams, and Ozark mountains to lakes, wetlands, forests, and glades. It also includes recommendations for trails suited to a variety of experience levels, making it a resource for casual walkers, seasoned hikers, cyclists, birders, and anyone looking to spend more time outdoors.
“Hikers and bikers, poets and philosophers, tree huggers and flower children will all find something to take away from this detailed collection,” Corrigan says. The authors also hope the guide inspires photographers to capture memorable images, whether with a smartphone or professional camera.
Allred Lake Natural Area. (Diana Linsely)
Corrigan, a longtime journalism professor at Webster University, has spent more than four decades covering environmental issues and outdoor recreation. He is the recipient of the Lewis C. Green Environmental Service Award and founded Webster University’s Outdoor/Environmental Journalism Writing Certificate program.
Linsley has worked as a professional photographer for more than 40 years, exhibiting her nature photography throughout Missouri while earning numerous Missouri Press Association awards for her photojournalism. Her images bring to life many of the state’s best-known and hidden natural areas.
According to Corrigan, the book was written for people who want more than a checklist of attractions.
“We hope newcomers develop a deeper appreciation for Missouri’s natural gems,” he says. “And we hope longtime explorers discover new ways to experience places they may have visited for years.”
Bison grazing at Prairie State Park. (Diana Linsely)
The book also carries a conservation message, encouraging readers to appreciate and protect Missouri’s rich natural heritage while celebrating the remarkable diversity of landscapes found across the state.
Meet the Authors
Readers will have two opportunities to meet Corrigan and Linsley during book signings at Cooper’s Landing Riverside Resort in Columbia:
- Monday, September 12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Tuesday, September 13, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Both events are free and open to the public.
Scenic Natural Wonders of Missouri is available wherever books are sold. Price: $27.
Top image: Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge in Forest City, Missouri. (Diana Linsely)
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