Crowley’s Ridge Parkway – MO

Details

  • DesignationNational Scenic Byway (2000)
  • Intrinsic QualitiesNatural
  • LocationAR, MO
  • Length10 of 208 total miles
Byway Visitor Information
SEMO Byway Organization
Statewide Byway Partners
Missouri Department of Transportation
Visit Missouri
This house illustrates the kind of architecture travelers can expect to find along the Crowley's Ridge Parkway.
Dennis Adams of FHWA Photo

Overview

See a mixture of plant communities and diversity of species along Crowley's Ridge. Dramatic views abound along the ridge and hills where wildflowers proliferate throughout spring, summer and fall. Travel through natural and historical sites such as Chalk Bluff Natural Area and Civil War Battle site, and St. Francis National Forest.

Local Byway Partners

Story of the Byway

Crowley’s Ridge Parkway begins in Missouri and continues into Arkansas. Crowley’s Ridge is a geological formation that rises 250 to 550 feet above the alluvial plain of the Mississippi embankment in a 150-mile line from southeastern Missouri to the Mississippi near Helena, Arkansas. The area is great for hiking. Stop in the Morris State Park on the Missouri side and hike the two-mile trail.

Driving Directions

Take Highway 62 from Morris State Park west to St. Francis, AR at Missouri/Arkansas border where the bulk of the byway continues southward on a variety of numbered roadways.

Points of Interest

  • Morris State Park

    A 161-acre park with a two-mile hiking trail along Crowley’s Ridge, a unique geologic feature. Pit toilet. Picnic Table.

Itinerary

  • Wildflowers and Wildlife

    Start at the town of Maiden, MO, taking J west 5 miles to WW and head south. Morris State Park is to the east. Stop there and enjoy a quick two-mile hike or just watch for wildlife. Continue WW to Campbell, then turn onto Highway 62 going southwest. Look for wildflowers and wildlife along the way. Crossing the St. Francis River, you will continue with the Arkansas portion of the Byway.

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