Mark Twain National Forest Hercules Tower Road
CCC-built fire road to abandoned Ozark summit tower
The old fire access road to Hercules Tower cuts through some of the gnarliest timber in the Missouri Ozarks, climbing relentlessly through dense oak-hickory forest before breaking into rocky clearings near the 1,772-foot summit. Built in the 1930s by the CCC, this forgotten route sees more wild turkey than tire tracks, with several stream crossings and a particularly nasty switchback section that’ll test your low-range skills. The abandoned steel tower at the end offers panoramic views across the Current River valley.
This is solid intermediate territory—stock 4WD will make it, but you’ll earn every foot of elevation gain. Spring and fall offer the best conditions when the creek crossings are manageable and the timber roads aren’t soup. No permits required, but fuel up in Winona since it’s a 30-mile round trip through country where cell service is a pipe dream. Come for the solitude and stay for some of the most pristine dispersed camping in southern Missouri.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 15 mi / 24.1 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1772 ft |
| Best season | March-May, September-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Winona, Missouri |
| Land manager | Mark Twain National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner handle Hercules Tower Road?
Yes, any stock 4WD with high clearance can make it. The trail gets technical with loose rocks and steep grades, but doesn't require lockers or significant modifications.
Is the trail accessible in winter?
Winter access is unpredictable due to ice on the steep sections and potential snow closure of forest roads. Best months are March-May and September-November when conditions are most reliable.
Do I need permits to camp along Hercules Tower Road?
No permits required for dispersed camping in Mark Twain National Forest. Follow standard forest service rules - camp 100 feet from water sources and pack out all trash.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
The steepest climbs near the tower approach get loose and rutted, especially after rain. Expect some wheel spin and careful line choice on the technical rock sections.
How many water crossings should I expect?
Several small creek crossings throughout the route, typically shallow but can rise quickly after heavy rain. None require deep-water fording gear in normal conditions.