Exploring Missouri promises a ton of fun, whether we’re heading to a popular family destination or one of the state parks. One state park, in particular, earns props for all of its surprises – the tallest waterfall and the highest point in the state, for example. When you’re trying to decide how to spend a free day, consider a trip to this state park that’s home to Taum Sauk Lookout Tower in Missouri.

Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, in Ironton, offers so much to do that it’s definitely one of the top bucket list destinations.

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Spread across 7,500 acres, Taum Sauk Mountain State Park boasts the tallest waterfall in the state. Mina Sauk Falls cascades down a breathtaking 132 feet.

Google Maps

Clocking in at 1,772 feet, the top of Taum Sauk Mountain is also the highest point in Missouri. That means you’re in for some spectacular views of the Ozarks.

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For some of the best views in the park, make your way to Taum Sauk Lookout Tower. Plug 37.5688,-90.718758 into Google Maps, which will give you precise directions to the lookout tower.

Google/Mark T.

The 72-foot tower, which first opened in 1949, has even claimed a spot on the National Historic Lookout Register.

Trip Advisor/shellakers

While you can’t climb to the very top of the tower, you can make it pretty high up. Your best bet is to wear sturdy shoes and to hold on to the railing as you climb. (It can get windy on the tower.)

FourSquare/Staci C.

If the tower isn’t busy, take time to stop, as you make your way up, to admire the views.

Flickr/Rick Mester

Snap photos of the lush trees of the Ozarks that seemingly stretch for miles before again making your way down.

Wikipedia/Fredlyfish4

For more information, check out Missouri’s State Parks page website for Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.

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Have you climbed the Taum Sauk Lookout Tower in Missouri? What did you think of the view? Share your experience in the comments! Hungry after you climbed up the mountain? Check out these seven Missouri restaurants with charming outdoor patios.

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Google Maps

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Google/Mark T.

Trip Advisor/shellakers

FourSquare/Staci C.

Flickr/Rick Mester

Wikipedia/Fredlyfish4

FourSquare/Dan E.

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Address: Lookout Tower Rd, Ironton, MO 63650, USA