Page 28 - OzarksMagazineFeb17

As nice as the pedestal rocks are, one of the highlights of the hike is the large natural bridge. e arch of the bridge is about 20 feet from the ground. ere is foliage growing on the bridge and along the path that has been created by visitors.
When taking the 30 steps, which has a 15-foot drop, to the natural bridge, there is a blu that has water dripping and is a waterfall during the spring months or a er a heavy rain.
A er passing the bridge, the hike takes visitors back into the forest and back to the trailhead.
is is a moderate trail to hike. During the visit, a wild goat, feral hogs, deer and a bear were all spotted.
e hike is listed at 2.3 miles and is
pretty close to that. However, when exploring under the cli and running from a bear, the distance may be a little further.
ere are two ways to get to the trail. e rst way is to travel south on Highway 7. Traveling through Jasper, hikers will go approximately 28 miles before turning le on Highway 16 at Pelsor. e park is located six miles from Pelsor.
e second way, and quicker for some Heart of the Ozarks readers, is to travel south on Highway 65 to the Snowball exit. Take Highway 74 for 7 miles to Snowball before traveling 11 miles on Highway 377 to Witts Springs. In Witts Springs, turn right on Highway 16 and go 20 miles to the park.
The natural bridge is a good rest stop along the Pedestal Rock hiking trail.
28 | Ozarks Magazine | Spring 2018 www.OzarksMag.com
JIM PERRY