Purple Loop

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

This loop is part of the trail system at Busiek State Forest.

Busiek Rd is right off Hwy 65 between Springfield and Branson. Follow Busiek Rd down the hill. Follow to the right and under the bridge until you reach the dead end - which is also the parking area. Head across the foot bridge to the left of the parking lot - towards the firing range . The trailhead will be on your right.

Make your way down the doubletrack. You'll encounter two singletrack trails on the right in the first 0.1 mile. These take you to the creek - ignore them.

At 0.5 miles keep right at the fork on Westside Connector. You'll cross the creek a few times - it is not always running but be prepared to get your feet wet. If we've had heavy rainfall this creek is known to flood.

At 1.2 miles, take a right to start the Purple loop proper. You'll immediately begin a 0.6 mile, 250 ft assent that averages 11% grade. Expect some loose terrain.
The trail will curve right at the top and the next mile will carry you atop the ridge.
Mile 2.8 begins your descent. The trail will curve right for a loose, steep 0.1 mile drop. Be prepared for a sharp right at the bottom.

The next 0.1 of a mile can be fairly overgrown in the spring/summer. The trail will be visible but the growth might obstruct oncoming logs and rocks in the trail. Wear your bug spray.

The rest of the trail is a bluff-side, singletrack, switchback descent that is fun, challenging and offers a couple of nice view points at the top. Be prepared for loose terrain, up to 1.5 ft drops and tight turns. There are are few rock ledges that can be slick when wet.

The trail spits you out onto Buseik Rd just yards from the parking area.