Courtois Section

This 40-mile section has a 7-mile gap in the middle, but if you're willing to take a gravel road detour, you can hike the entire section.  We hope to finish this section in 2007.

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Overview

This trail uses the western half of the Berryman loop trail, adds a 12-mile section to the south to reach the Trace Creek Trail, and has an unfinished piece to the north that will connect into the trail at Huzzah Conservation Area.  The trail south of the Courtois to Butts road is rocky along the creek, then follows a double-track road to the edge of Huzzah CA land.

At this point, a new section of trail to connect the gap between Huzzah CA and Harmon Spring is currently under construction.  We have about 1600 feet left to complete between Huzzah and Butts Road, which will be done this spring. Check out our work parties page if you would like to help. We will be starting work on the other side of the Courtois later this year.

The trail from Harmon Springs to Hazel creek is in good shape and is very popular with mountain bikers and equestrians.

No Ozark Trail Council Brochure

As this section is incomplete, the OTC has not published a brochure.  You can get information on the Huzzah CA from the Missouri Department of Conservation and info on Berryman from the US Forest Service.  Visit our Maps page to download accurate and detailed maps of this section. Maps with the new section coming soon!

Directions

There are a variety of access points on this section. 

• Huzzah CA- From the Leasburg exit at Highway 44, take Highway H past Onondaga Cave and cross the bridge.  The first trailhead is a short way up the road on the right.  The second trailhead is at the campground-- take the road about 2 1/2 miles, then make a left by the shooting range and drive around to a small parking area by the Courtois. Note: only foot traffic is allowed on this section of trail.
• Berryman Trail- There is a trailhead on Highway 8 a mile east of Berryman (between Potosi and Steelville).  To get to the Harmon Springs trailhead from this spot, take Highway 8 east for a mile, then left at the sign that says "Berryman Campground."  Go north four miles, then left at the "Y" intersection for two miles until you hit Highway W.  Make a left, go 1.3 miles, then right on a little USFS road until you reach the parking lot.
• Hazel Creek- From the intersection of Highways 8 & Y (about 14-15 miles east of Steelville): go south on Y for 7-8 miles then make a left on CR 657. Go about five miles down this gravel road and make a right into Hazel Creek Campground.  There is a parking area a few hundred yards on the right.  You have to walk a 100' back up the road to find the trail.

Further Information

Danny's Missouri Backpacking & Hiking Trails Reviews (scroll down)