Elephant Rocks State Park
By now you probably know that we have a love for exploring our state parks. Another inviting Missouri state park located close to the Johnson Shut-Ins is Elephant Rocks State Park. Getting its name from the gigantic boulders that stand end-to-end like circus elephants, it is one of the most unique places we have ever been to. From what we’ve read, these rocks were apparently formed from 1.5 billion year old granite and have attracted tourists for years.
An easy way to see and access the rocks is from the 1 mile Braille Trail designed specifically for the blind, visually impaired, and for those who have physical disabilities. The Engine House Ruins Trail is accessed from the Braille Trail. It is a 15 minute one way hike towards the ruins of the old engine house that was used to repair train engines for the Iron Mountain and Southern Railroad in the 1890s. Not only do these trails take you on a path unbelievable beauty, it also has a rich history to enjoy. Check out the trail map below:
Now get outdoors and explore!
Logan & Kallsy
Pages of Travel
Very informative..and equally interesting! I have never been to such a place but after reading your post I want to visit here
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I hope you are able to! Thank you Neha.
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It looks really nice, it is also great to have an access not only for disable but you can take the kid strollers there too, so many parks don’t have that kind of access limiting the experience to lots of people. Thanks for sharing
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That’s what we were impressed with to! It was catered to any person. We greatly enjoyed our time there. I hope you are able to visit someday!
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The first picture already stunned me. The place looks very beautiful. Was it hard to climb those huge rocks, though? I am slightly afraid of heights, but when the place is so beautiful I am up for the challenge.
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Agnes, thank you so much for the compliment! It was very beautiful and green everywhere. They weren’t too terribly hard to climb because they have so many rough edges on them to grab onto. I am also somewhat afraid of heights but felt very sturdy on these! I hope you get the chance to visit someday. 🙂
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I’ve visited quite a few national parks in the US, but it always feels like there are more to see! Is it called Elephant Rocks because of the size and shape of the rocks or is there other reason? 😀
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I always feel that way too! You got it! The size of them and the fact that it appears that they are in a line like circus elephants once were. 🙂
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I’d love to go here. I love that they have a trail that caters to those with disabilities. Thanks for posting!
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