Explore Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area
Rating: 8.2/10

Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area

Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area is definitely a place for hiking lovers. This park is one of the most rustic and difficult that we have visited. Unfortunately, we were not able to traverse all the trails as we had planned, since there were electrical storms for almost the entire afternoon that day, which prevented us from exploring as we wanted. You are going to need good footwear, and go prepared to cross creeks.

Our Trip Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area

This is our recommended parking spot. There are many other options, but this is the best spot to explore the top hiking trails.

Parking

We recommend using restrooms before starting activities, specially if you have kids.

Restrooms

To get to the arch (Natural Arch) you need to take the Natural Bridge Trail, and you will have to cross the creek at least 2 times. The path can be a little confusing, but follow the trail signs. The trail is a loop, so you can't get lost.

Al Arch

Once you finish the first trail, you will head back and take the Mill Branch Trail. Almost the entire trail is along the creek, and it will take you to the Devil's Backbone.

Al Backbone

Finally, you will follow the trail near the creek at the Devil's Backbone. This will take you to the Mill Branch Cascade. This last trail is somewhat dangerous and difficult to traverse.

Al Cascade

Always check your destination's weather forecast, & save maps offline.

Gallery Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area

Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area

Highlights
  • Safe
  • Poor Connectivity
  • No Public Transportation
  • Self-Guided
  • Open Year Round
Activities
  • Hiking
  • Pet Friendly
  • Camping
Amenities
  • Public Restrooms
Nearby Cities
  • Vienna
  • Golconda
  • Harrisburg
  • Marion
  • Carbondale
  • Metropolis
Today's Forecast
77°F / 62°F

Sunny

10-Day Forecast
4.8

Based on 709 Google reviews

"This is one of the best location in Shawnee national forest. The water is clear and looks clean. The trails are beautiful too. Some kids were swimming..."
— Gajanan Wadekar
"Such a beautiful and peaceful spot. The walk down is great but remember you have to get back up all of those stairs!..."
— Steve Quinn
Banner
Address

Bell Smith Springs Rd, Ozark, IL 62972, USA

Hours
  • Monday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Thursday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Friday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Saturday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Sunday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Cash Mastercard Visa Discover Amex Checks
QR

Scan on mobile

Trail Explorer
Click on a trail to inspect route metrics
OSM Open Data
Processing route geometry...
No trail selected

Select any dashed line on the interactive map to view available elevation, surface, and length data.

Technical Parameters

Unknown Route

Distance --
Incline (OSM) --
  • Infrastructure Type --
  • Surface Type --
  • Difficulty (Sac Scale) --