Best Hikes—Busiek State Park

Close and extensive, this trail system gets top ratings from local hikers.

18 miles south of Springfield
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The easiest entry point for Busiek is right next to the state park’s outdoor shooting range, a parking lot just a few hundred feet off of U.S. 65 between Ozark and Branson. After an eerily casual conversation with an ex-marine about his M-16, and passing up a few offers to “give it a try,” we’re on our way through the leafless remains of this beautiful forest.

Even in the mud and slush left from the most recent of our many “Ice Storm ’08s”, it’s hard to ignore the ideal environment at Busiek. Hiking mate Sara Crownhart and I hit a stream cutting across the path and had the choice of soaking our ill-advised, canvas-topped shoes or stepping off the trail, climbing the hill over mossy rocks forming miniature cliffs. Needless to say, we took the latter, giving two latte-sippers a prize moment of pretend outdoor accomplishment.
Even though Busiek sits right beside the heavily trafficked 65, the hills roll, blocking any sign of civilization beyond the well-groomed path in front of us. There isn’t a peep from the minivans packed with families running late for the 5:30 p.m. seating of Dixie Stampede. All the while, the trees encase every step to a soundtrack of birds, cracking sticks and the occasional gunshot.

The number one asset of this forest is its diversity. Considering a true outdoor adventure requires a drive to Arkansas, Busiek is a gem for being just 25-minutes from Springfield. The paths facilitate your choice of motor-less travel, be it bike, foot or horseback.

The initial portions of the trail are perfect for the morning jogger looking to get in a mile or two accompanied by a fresh air and endless scenery. Or, if you’re a mountain-biker looking to make a three-day camping trip, Busiek has more than 2,500 acres to explore. Just be conscious of the season, as the forest does allow hunting.

Ryan Owen, a local outdoor enthusiast, calls Busiek his favorite hike within 50 miles. He lauds the forest for having “tons of different trails.” Owen says one thing people don’t realize is that Busiek has two sides, one east of U.S. 65 and one west. “A lot of people miss the fact that if you drive past the quarry, there’s a whole other trail system on the west with beautiful river bottoms and hilltops,” he says.

The Rundown

• Camping: Yes
• Hunting: Yes
• Mountain biking: Yes
• Road biking: No
• Horseback: Yes
• Initially scary, but surprisingly friendly, gun owners: Yes