Hiking at Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Wow just wow! I can’t even begin to describe the crayon box full of colors we saw on a recent trip to explore Ha Ha Tonka State Park. A Lake of the Ozark local had told us it was a must do and gave us great intel on hiking ‘down to the valley below’ and up over a hidden trail to really see the gorgeous colors. We set out for the hike kind of late for our standards, but it worked in our favor as the sunlight had just begun to penetrate the water below revealing the vivid neon colors.
I recommend parking in the lot just off Castle Ruins Road - hike the Castle Trail first which is only .8 of a mile and easy, then move on to explore the Dell Rim Trail to the Water Tower. If you park close to the Castle, you’ll miss the walk through the pretty forests
Water Tower at Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Now for the local’s advice (and ours as well). After walking to the Water Tower, continue along the Dell Rim Trail (1/2 mile) toward the Spring Trail. There you’ll encounter the sign which warns of a steep descent (the easy part) but remember you have to ascend later! Know your own limits - however, I believe it’s doable for most anyone as long as you take it slow and pack water. The rewards for your effort are jaw-dropping gorgeous views of the spring below!
The most magical colors, the best walk, it’s all at the bottom of the canyon! Take some time to catch your breath at the bottom and just breathe deeply while taking in the gorgeous blue and green water. You’ll be entertained by countless birds and ducks as you walk the boardwalk. Keep going….it’ll get even better!
As you follow the spring trail you’ll eventually come to the intersection with the Island Trail on your immediate right. Go over the small bridge and explore that area! The locals say most don’t attempt the designated ‘hard’ trail by Alltrails, but we were told it was a must do. Honestly, it’s not all that hard. Steep in spots, yup, but there’s plenty of level areas to rest before pushing on and my goodness, it’s only 1 mile around!!! GO! We found ourselves walking along the water completely alone from the masses who’d descended the Spring Trail. If you blink, you could miss the trailhead for this one so keep a sharp eye out! We eventually came upon a small waterfall and chatted for a few minutes with yet another local. He said there are locals that don’t even know the swimming hole and secluded water exist! He had lived in the area for over a decade and hadn’t ever visited himself until a friend told him the secret!
Time to turn back for the parking lot, and the ascent of SO many stairs (I lost count at over 350) back to Dell Rim Trail. Check out our video below!
Ascending out of the Island Trail.
