How it all Started
The founding of the Ozark Trail Association was made possible by numerous partners. In October of 1976, representatives from various agencies met to discuss a proposal called the “Ozark Trail Concept.” It was billed as an informal discussion, and quickly led to the First Ozark Trail draft in February 1977. Four years later, the first sections of new trail were under construction.
Cooperation and Coordination
It was a cooperative effort of seven governmental agencies, one private landowner, and several environmental groups banded together in what later became the Ozark Trail Council. Under this cooperative relationship, the Ozark Trail Council oversaw the construction of some 170+ miles of trail in just under a decade. Along with previously existing trails, the Ozark Trail system contained more than 200 miles of trail by 1991.
The Ozark Trail is Continuing to Grow
The Ozark Trail Association was founded in 2002, and has added more than 50 miles of trail to date, most constructed by volunteers. The association continues to maintain and expand the Ozark Trail. April 29th, 2006 was proclaimed “Ozark Trail Day” by Missouri’s governor, and in May 2008 a portion of the trail was designated a National Recreational Trail. In 2013 Missouri was named Best Trails State at the International Trails Symposium, due in part to the increasing popularity of the Ozark Trail.
Our Partners
Our partners play a critical role in supporting our work and conserving our trail lands.
