Overview
The Big Piney Trail runs 12 miles out and back along the corridor of the Big Piney River in the Houston Ranger District of Mark Twain National Forest. The Big Piney is one of Missouri's finest float rivers and one of the best smallmouth bass streams in the Midwest, but the trail that follows it offers something the canoe route cannot: the ability to explore the deeper forest on the ridges above the river and access stretches of the river that the float crowd never reaches.
At 800 feet of elevation gain over 12 miles, this is the most demanding day hike in the forest and an excellent backpacking route for those looking for a one- or two-night trip. The terrain follows the typical Ozark pattern: the trail moves between river-bottom flats and hardwood ridges, with the climbs and descents accounting for most of the elevation gain. The river crossings in this section can be significant in spring wet feet are essentially guaranteed in high water.
The forest along the Big Piney is dominated by oak, hickory, and sycamore, with shortleaf pine appearing on the driest south-facing ridges. Black bears and wild turkey are both present, and the river supports populations of river otter and great blue heron. This is the quieter, more remote side of the forest, and the trail reflects that character: lightly maintained, occasionally overgrown, reliably unpopulated.
The Route
Miles 0 to 3: From the County Road AB trailhead, the trail drops to the Big Piney River and begins following the east bank upstream. The first section is relatively flat through river-bottom forest. Two crossings of tributary streams occur in this section. Look for heron activity along the gravel bars.
Miles 3 to 6: The trail climbs away from the river onto a shortleaf pine ridge, gaining about 300 feet. The pine forest on the ridge top has a more open, parklike character than the dense bottomland below. Views of the river valley are visible through the trees. The trail descends back to the river around mile 5.5 before reaching the turnaround point at a developed river access at mile 6.
Miles 6 to 12 (return): The return route follows the same path. The downstream direction means you face fewer climbs on the return, making the second half of the hike slightly easier.
When to Visit
April through June and September through November are the ideal windows. Spring (April-May) combines best wildflower displays with full river flow. Fall brings hardwood color and excellent fishing conditions. Summer is hot and tick pressure is highest. Winter is hikeable on mild days.
Check conditions before spring visits, as river crossings can be dangerous in flood conditions.
What to Bring
- Many hikers carry 2-2.5 liters of water. River water is available if treated. Summer visits require more than average. Individual needs vary.
- Quick-drying footwear for river crossings
- Tick repellent from April through October
- Trekking poles for river crossings and ridge climbs
- Bear hang kit or canister for overnight trips see bear canister requirements
- A detailed map or GPS track; cell service is absent on most of this trail
Practical Details
No facilities at the trailhead. Dispersed camping is permitted throughout the forest corridor. Follow Leave No Trace principles. No permit required for day hiking or dispersed camping. See the national forest camping guide for general rules.
Copperhead and timber rattlesnakes are present in rocky areas and river banks. They are not aggressive but merit caution.
Getting There
From Licking, Missouri, take State Highway 32 west to County Road AB, then south to the trailhead. Licking is in Texas County on State Highway 32, approximately 30 miles south of I-44. GPS coordinates are approximately 37.45°N, 92.10°W. The Houston Ranger District office in Houston, Missouri, can provide current conditions and directions.