I'm planning my first trip to SMORR in Springfield, MO. This will be my first 4x4 trip with my wife, and my first real 4x4 trip in probably 15 years. As such we're wanting to take it a bit easy as we're going by ourselves.

I'm wanting to hit up Pewee's Crossing and Guard Rail while I'm there. I'm looking for a sanity check on my route from those who have more experience with the area.

I'm thinking coming into the park up Ranch Hand to Ceder Lake. Start Pewee's Crossing off Ceder Lake and follow it to the ends at Ranch Hand. Take Ranch Hand to Cavern Creek. Follow that to where it ends on Ranch Road near AVD Hill. Turn around and follow Ranch Hand till it hits Eastwood. Follow Eastwood until it hits the east side of Yellow Jacket. Take that up to Guard Rail, follow Guard Rail east and then take Eastwood back to Rand Road.

Does this sound like a doable route?

 

@jedg is from that area and familiar with the park. I'd bet he'll chime in here with some advice.

 

That's a great park! I you ask the staff when you check in at the reception cabin. It's been 3 years since I've been to the park (I'm in NC now) and conditions change a bunch there year to year. Additionally, they will take a look at your rig and then make recommendations for you based on your rig and what you are looking for. Brandon (the owner) is a great guy and all the folks that work there with him are true off-roaders and really look out for the folks that come there. You'll have an awesome time!

 

wait! When do you plan to go? If it's 22nd of August, I have a friend who is hosting a ride that day and I'm sure he'd be glad to add you in. It'll be a pretty mild run as it's with beginners so that may fit what you're looking for. If the 22nd is what you're looking at, let me know in a PM and I'll link you up with him.

 

It's the 15th. We're heading down for the weekend to hit up SMORR for the day and Dogwood Canyon. I'm going to try and pick up my first two honor badges while I'm there.

 

Well bummer. So I say ask for recommendations when you get there. Depending on rainfall, the conditions change significantly.