White Rock Mountain Rim Trail loop from White Rock Special Interest Area
White Rock Mountain Rim Trail loop from White Rock Special Interest Area
3.5
(24)
59
hikers
01:18
3.83km
90m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 17, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
White Rock Special Interest Area
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
411 m
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
3.83 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.99 km
568 m
202 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.19 km
631 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 25 June
28°C
20°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an accessible hike with big payoffs, the White Rock Mountain Rim Trail loop from White Rock Special Interest Area is a fantastic choice. This moderate 2.4-mile (3.8 km) hiking route, with just 289 feet (88 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 17 minutes, making it an ideal option for a rewarding outing without a huge time commitment. It's one of the most popular routes in the White Rock Special Interest Area for good reason, offering stunning views for minimal effort.
What to expect on White Rock Mountain Rim Trail loop from White Rock Special Interest Area
The trail circles the top of White Rock Mountain, providing almost continuous panoramic views of the Ozark National Forest. You'll find yourself walking along a well-traveled path, but be aware that some sections are rocky and require sure-footedness, especially near dangerous bluffs without guardrails. Along the way, you can pause at historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) shelters like Sunset Shelter, North Shelter, and West Shelter, which offer excellent vantage points for soaking in the scenery, particularly at sunrise or sunset. The changing foliage in fall transforms the forest into a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a particularly scenic time for seasonal hiking.
Planning your visit
Starting your hike at Sunset Shelter is highly recommended, as it provides convenient parking, restroom facilities, and immediate access to incredible views. While the trail is generally easy to moderate, the presence of dangerous bluffs without guardrails means it's not suitable for young children. For the best experience and to witness the Ozarks in their full glory, consider visiting during the fall for the vibrant colors or planning your hike around sunrise or sunset for truly breathtaking vistas.
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