Missouri's 'Largest Continuously Running Waterfall' Is A Natural Wonder With Pools And Picnic Spots

You may not think of Missouri when you think about vacation destinations. However, there is far more to the state than you may realize. For example, the world's largest subterranean lake in Bonne Terre attracts thousands of scuba divers a year, or you can explore and hike in the unspoiled Ozark paradise of Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. You can even visit St. Louis' world-famous Gateway Arch at the only U.S. national park inside a city. However, if you're looking for a nature-focused day trip in the Joplin area, there is a wonderful place for a relaxing walk, picnic, or swim. Welcome to Grand Falls, the state's largest continuously running waterfall.

Grand Falls is a very family-friendly place, with a short hike that is fairly easy, a nearby park with plenty of activities, and a beautiful overlook to enjoy. Instead of a huge and thundering waterfall, Grand Falls has a small cascade of only 12 feet; however, it's a lovely, wide vista, and the falls are an impressive 163 feet across. A reviewer on Yelp says, "As you walk toward the waterfall, the rock bed are almost like large steps down to the water ... Very peaceful as you hear the water crashing from the fall." If you're in the area, add this stop to your list for a serene place to have lunch or enjoy a dip.

Grand Falls is very wide, and at the bottom, there are pools to swim and wade in if the weather is nice — the highs average between the high 70s to 90 degrees Fahrenheit from June through September. The falls spill down from an artificial dam that provides the city with water. It's a beautiful and ethereal spot, and you may even see frogs. The falls are always running, so even when it isn't bathing suit weather, this is a wonderful spot to relax and meditate. The sunrise views are lovely. 

The falls themselves are on the east side of Shoal Creek and are close to Inspiration Point, an overlook that offers you a pretty view of the waterway itself. There is a little gravel parking lot where you can leave your car and head out on a short 0.2-mile loop with a small 6-foot gain to see the falls. It's open all year, and you can even bring your leashed dog. One thing to note is that the rocks can be slippery, so it's important to wear the right shoes.

Just 2.8 miles away is McClelland Park, which has a playground. You can hit this stop with the kids beforehand and go to the falls to cool off afterward with a swim. It also has two covered areas, two horseshoe pits, and a 27-hole disc golf course to enjoy. There are picnic tables and bathrooms, so it's a great spot for a quick lunch.