Who knew there were great hiking trails so conveniently located in Branson? Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area provides hours of hiking/nature trails, with varying degrees of difficulty. The weekend that we visited was extremely rainy and overcast. That did not diminish our enthusiasm! Some of the more precarious trails were quite slick, but we enjoyed the challenge of the adventure! There are two routes to head down to Lake Taneycomo - The 315 stone stairs or an arm of the red route (not the red loop). Both routes afford beautiful vistas. On our two trips to Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area we were able to explore all of the trails! We can't wait to return...

We started on the yellow trail and then found ourselves on the purple trail that went down hill to a ridge where we saw Lake Taneycomo. From there we ended up climbing a lot of stairs back up to the yellow trail where there was a old homestead site to explore. Overall a great experience!

Surprising to find “wilderness” inside the city limits; easy to moderate trails on top of the ridge, and rugged hiking as you descend the stone steps below the bluff. Scenic views of Lake Taneycomo. Needs better trail signage and directions on sections below the bluff.