NRT Database

Location: Connects Springfield north to Bolivar, Missouri, part along State Route 123
State(s): Missouri
Counties: Greene & Polk
Longitude: -93.35649
Latitude: 37.24212

Driving Directions

Five trailhead access points are available, including Springfield, Willard, Walnut Grove, Wishart and Bolivar. Springfield Trailhead is on Kearney Street, west of West Bypass. Bolivar Trailhead is on Highway 32/Broadway Avenue, just west of their historic downtown square.

Description

The Frisco Highline Trail is the second longest Rail-to-Trail conversion in Missouri, at 36 miles long, connecting Springfield to Bolivar. It provides free, safe non-motorized use opportunities for walking, running, bicycling, commuting, touring and wheelchair use.

This historic scenic corridor connects several railroad towns, including Springfield, Willard, Walnut Grove, Graydon Springs, Wishart, Pearl, Morrisville and Bolivar. In fact, Harry S. Truman got the idea for his Whistle Stop Campaign for President after traveling the Frisco Highline railroad from Bolivar to Springfield and back in the summer of 1948.

On the north half of the trail, there are 16 railroad trestles to cross over. The trail passes through La Petite Gem Prairie, one of the most diverse prairies in Missouri, according to the Missouri Prairie Foundation.

This trail is changing the southwest Missouri region by shedding new light on health issues related to sedentary lifestyles. People who have never been active in their lives are getting out onto the trail. Not just nature-craving city folks, but also rural residents are enjoying the trail for recreation, exercise, transportation and spending time with friends and family. The success of this trail has resulted from the increased public demand for further greenway development around the Springfield community.

The uniqueness this trail has to offer is incredible scenery though - a real rural Missouri experience. In one of the fastest growing areas of the state, we need to highlight the importance of preserving this rural cultural heritage, before the farms all become subdivisions.

Additional Details

Width: 127 inches.
Primary Surface: Crushed Rock
Secondary Surface: Asphalt
Crushed Rock

Average Grade: 2%
Maximum Grade: 4%
Elevation Low Point: 870
Elevation High Point: 1,270
Elevation Gain (cumulative): Not Available

Year Designated: 2006

Supporting Webpages and Documents

Contact Information

For more information and current conditions, contact the trail manager (listed below). For questions, suggestions, and corrections to information listed on the website, contact American Trails.

Information Contact:
Lori Tack
Ozark Greenways
PO Box 50733
Springfield, MO 65805
(417) 864-2015
[email protected]