The best walks and hikes around Pilot Knob
5.0
(2)
60
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking around Pilot Knob explores the terrain of the St. Francois Mountains within the Mark Twain National Forest. The region features forested trails, notable rock formations, and access to features such as Mina Sauk Falls. Routes include ascents to some of Missouri's highest points, including Taum Sauk Mountain. The landscape is characterized by granite rock formations and varied elevation.
Best hiking trails around Pilot Knob
- The most popular hiking route is Ozark Trail: Taum Sauk Section, a 13.0 miles…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
6
hikers
21.0km
05:56
350m
630m
Hike the difficult 13.0-mile Ozark Trail: Taum Sauk Section, gaining 1161 feet to Missouri's highest point and Mina Sauk Falls.
2
hikers
9.12km
02:41
250m
250m
Hike the moderate 5.7-mile Russell Mountain to Taum Sauk Trail to Missouri's highest point and tallest waterfall, Mina Sauk Falls.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
42
hikers
4.86km
01:23
110m
110m
Hike the 3.0-mile Mina Sauk Falls Trail loop in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park to see Missouri's tallest waterfall and rugged glade views.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
2.39km
00:38
20m
20m
Hike the easy 1.5-mile Braille Trail in Elephant Rocks State Park, a multi-sensory loop featuring unique red granite formations.
4
hikers
14.8km
04:32
530m
530m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The engine house was originally built to repair trains in the 1890s. It was also used to quarry operations in what is now the state park.
0
0
Located in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, these falls at 132 feet are the tallest waterfall in Missouri. The view over the top of the waterfall offers an impressive view of the St Francois Mountains.
0
0
The elephant rocks are giant boulders that stand end-to-end and look like a train of circus elephants. The rocks were formed from 1.5-billion-year-old granite,
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly hikes around Pilot Knob?
Yes, the area offers several easier hikes suitable for families. A great option is the Elephant Rocks State Park loop — Mark Twain National Forest. It's a short 1.5-mile (2.4 km) walk among fascinating giant granite boulders that are fun for all ages to explore.
Can I see any waterfalls while hiking in the area?
Absolutely. The region is home to Mina Sauk Falls, the highest waterfall in Missouri. To see it, you can take the Mina Sauk Falls Trail loop, a pleasant 3-mile (4.9 km) hike. Keep in mind the falls are most impressive after recent rainfall.
What are the trails like in the Pilot Knob region?
The trails explore the St. Francois Mountains within the Mark Twain National Forest. You can expect forested paths, some notable granite rock formations, and ascents to some of Missouri's highest points. The terrain offers a mix of moderate mountain hikes and easier, shorter loops.
Are there any challenging hikes with significant elevation gain?
Yes, for a more strenuous outing, consider the Buford Mountain – Bald Knob loop from Iron Mountain Lake. This 9.2-mile (14.8 km) trail involves a considerable climb of over 1,700 feet (527 m) to the summit of Buford Mountain, rewarding you with expansive views.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Pilot Knob?
The area is very highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained trails through the forest and the unique geological features like the granite outcrops and Mina Sauk Falls.
Are the hiking trails dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in the Mark Twain National Forest, including those around Pilot Knob, as long as they are kept on a leash. Always be sure to bring water for your pet and clean up after them.
How many hiking trails are available around Pilot Knob?
There are 5 curated routes available in this guide, ranging from easy walks to more moderate mountain hikes. These trails showcase the best of the region's forested terrain, rock formations, and waterfalls.
Can I hike to the highest point in Missouri from here?
Yes, you can. The Mina Sauk Falls – Taum Sauk Mountain loop is an 8-mile (12.9 km) moderate hike that takes you to the summit of Taum Sauk Mountain, which is the highest natural point in the state of Missouri.
Are there any shorter loop hikes available?
For a shorter but scenic loop, the Elephant Rocks loop from Pilot Knob is a great choice. It's about 3.2 miles (5.1 km) long and features relatively little elevation gain, making it an accessible outing.
What should I pack for a day hike at Pilot Knob?
For any hike, you should bring plenty of water and some snacks. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended due to the rocky and sometimes uneven terrain. It's also wise to have a map or use the komoot app for navigation, and pack layers of clothing as weather can change in the mountains.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
