Busiek State Forest - Eastside's Finest

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Unknown

While only ~35% of the trail would be considered singletrack, much of the trail is technical equestrian trial. It is wide, but not really doubletrack or road.

The descents are fast, steep and loose.

Busiek Rd is right off Hwy 65 between Springfield and Branson. Follow Busiek Rd down the hill. Turn left at the first gravel parking area, before you go under the bridge. Follow the road to the dead end which is also the parking area.

Note - there are many junctions that will be poorly marked or unmarked. The maps at the trailhead are out of date. If you would like a more easily navigated trail, the Purple Loop is suggested.

The trail will start on the south side of the lot. It will bring you directly to the creek. The creek is not always running but be prepared to get your feet wet. If we've had heavy rainfall this creek is known to flood.

This first 2.9 miles of this is the Red Trail.

2.9 - Take a left to continue on the Yellow Trail. The next .5 miles is fairly technical. It's not steep, but has loose terrain and a sections with 1- 2 ft rock drops. Hike-a-bike suggested around some sections depending on skill level.

The trail will open back up to doubletrack. There will be a few spots that are muddy year round.

3.5 - take a left at the junction followed by and immediate right. Follow the doubletrack to the creek at mile 4. As with all creeks at Busiek, the creek is not always running but be prepared to get your feet wet. If we've had heavy rainfall this creek is known to flood.

4.1 - Keep right at the junction.

4.4 - Keep straight onto the Silver Trail.

4.5 - Get ready to climb. This is rideable but could be a hike-a-bike depending on skill level.

4.9 - Keep right. Left takes you to AA parking area.

5.0 - Keep right. Left takes you to AA parking area.

5.3 - Take a left past the fire ring. Prepare for a steep, technical, loose-terrain descent. Ridable depending on skill level.

5.7 - Keep left.

6.0 - Cross the creek. Follow the doubletrack .7 miles back to the parking lot.