Current River Paddle Route: Cedar Grove to Round Spring

While this Komoot tour is categorized as a hike, the "Current River Paddle Route: Cedar Grove to Round Spring" is predominantly known as a scenic approximately 30-mile float trip. A continuous hiking trail directly paralleling the entire river section from Cedar Grove to Round Spring does not exist. However, there are numerous excellent hiking opportunities available in the broader Current River area, particularly around Round Spring.

Near Round Spring, you'll find several hiking options, often part of the extensive Ozark Trail network. These include sections of the Ozark Trail (Upper Current Section), the unique Current River Challenge (combining hiking and floating), and the shorter Round Spring Loop Trail. There's also a 1 km "Current River Trail" near Round Spring.

The hiking trails in the Current River region offer diverse scenery. You'll traverse hardwood and pine forests, encounter Missouri glades with expansive views, and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Current River valley from bluffs. The area is rich with water features, including clear spring-fed streams, wet-weather waterfalls, and the prominent Round Spring itself, a 55-foot deep, nearly circular pool.

Most hiking trails in this area, especially sections of the Ozark Trail, are described as moderate to rugged, with some even rated as black diamond difficulty. Hikers can expect uneven terrain, small to steep hills, rocks, and roots. Elevation changes can be significant, such as the 1,100 feet of gain on parts of the Current River Challenge.

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on hiking trails in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, including sections of the Ozark Trail near Round Spring. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors.

Spring and fall are generally the best times for hiking. In spring, you'll enjoy wildflowers and butterflies, while fall offers vibrant foliage. Cooler weather in these seasons also makes the more strenuous sections, like those on the Current River Challenge, more enjoyable. Summers can be hot and humid, making hiking more challenging.

There are generally no entrance fees to access the Ozark National Scenic Riverways for day-use hiking. However, if you plan to camp, especially at designated campgrounds or for backcountry camping, permits may be required. For specific regulations and permit information, it's best to check the official NPS website for the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

Parking is available at various access points around Round Spring, such as near the pedestrian bridge across from Carr's Canoe Rental, which serves as a starting point for the Round Spring Loop Trail and provides access to other sections of the Ozark Trail.

While shuttle services are common for paddlers on the Current River, dedicated hiker-specific shuttle services for the various trails are less common. If you're planning a point-to-point hike, you may need to arrange your own transportation or consider a loop trail. The "Current River Challenge" is a unique event that incorporates a float back to Round Spring, but this is part of an organized event rather than a regular shuttle service.

The Current River area is rich in wildlife. Hikers might spot bald eagles soaring overhead, white-tailed deer, river otters, wood ducks, and great blue herons near the water. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other forest creatures.

Yes, the hiking opportunities in this area frequently intersect with and utilize sections of the extensive Ozark Trail - Upper Current section. Other trails like MDC 350, MDC 360, and Jones Hollow Trail also exist in the broader vicinity, offering additional exploration.