North Fork River Hiking & Backpacking

Looking to take a day off from floating? Try one of the great hiking trails that are near the Ranch.

Devil’s Backbone Wilderness

6,687 acres of vast wildlife and trails to backpack on, this is great for your more experienced backpacker. There are 13 miles of maintained foot and horse trails with an elevation range from 1020 to 680 feet along the North Fork of the White River. You can also pass multiple springs along your hike. Take a day to enjoy this awesome section of the Mark Twain National Forest.

Ridge Runner Trail

There is a 6 mile loop at Noblett lake, another 6 mile loop near North Fork Recreation area that provides a great hike for your average hiker. Between the two loops is a 21 mile segment of wilderness. It’s a great location for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike. Our beautiful Ozark topography is really shown through taking a hike or ride on these trails.

Blue Spring Trail

This trail is a short walk from the North Fork Campground along the Devil’s Backbone. It leads to the Blue Spring trail that you see on your hammond float. Blue Spring averages 7 million gallons per day of cold, clear blue water.