Branson, Missouri is located near the Missouri-Arkansas border, and offers various activities for visitors and natives alike. Located near the Ozark Mountains, Branson features numerous outdoor activities, such as ziplining and canoeing, as well as various caves and caverns to explore. Nature lovers can observe the diverse range of native wildlife, while enjoying hikes, bike rides or any of Branson's other outdoor activities.
Wolf Creek Preserve features zipline rides, in which a rider is attached to a cable by a harness and pulley. Riders suspend from the cable and ride through air. There are seven ziplines and different packages are available to suit many tastes. For instance, those wishing to experience a fast and exciting ride will enjoy the Blue Streak Fast Line, while those who wish to enjoy the natural settings will be able to do so on the Ozarks Xplorer Canopy Tour. A few requirements include that riders wear closed-toed shoes, that riders with long hair tie their hair back and that riders be eight years old or older, weigh between 70 and 275 lbs. and that they be able to climb 70 feet of stairs.
Branson Zipline
2339 US 65
Walnut Shade, MO 65771
800-712-4654
bransonzipline.com
The Branson Scenic Railway train features passenger cars that transport guests through the foothills of the Ozark mountains in Branson and into Arkansas. Special regular features include dinner service on Saturdays at 5:00 p.m. The railway also offers special events such as the "Polar Express" attraction for kids, complete with hot chocolate, caroling and gifts for children. Children are encouraged to wear pajamas to the event.
Branson Scenic Railway
206 E. Main
Branson, MO 65616
417-334-6110
bransontrain.com
Both Branson and the Ozarks offer plenty of opportunities to canoe. The Ozark area, located about 30 minutes from Branson, provides guided canoeing tours. Tours begin at the Table Rock Lake Dam and start off with general information on canoeing. The tour company Trek the Ozarks offers various tour options, from four-hour trips to all-day tours. For some tours, the company requires six people per group.
Trek the Ozarks
1116 W. Highway 76
Branson, MO 65616
417-335-4455
trektheozarks.com.
Branson is also famous for its numerous caves and caverns. The Talking Rocks Cavern is located in Branson West, a few minutes drive from Branson. Tours commence throughout the day, and last for about an hour. An expert guide takes groups through the caverns and provides knowledgeable insight about their formation and discovery. As of 2010, tour prices vary by age group; for those 13 and older, the price is $16.95; for children between the ages of four and 12, the price is $8.95; children under four are free. The caverns are opened from 9:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Talking Rocks Cavern
423 Fairy Cave Ln
Reeds Spring, MO 65737
417-272-3366
talkingrockscavern.com
