Taum Sauk Mountain

Taum Sauk Mountain is the highest natural point in the U.S. state of Missouri, with a summit elevation of 1,772 feet (540 metres). It is part of the St. Francois Mountains and lies within a state park that protects upland habitats and rocky outcrops.

The summit area and nearby Mina Sauk Falls are the primary draws - the summit offers exposed rocky ridgelines and panoramic views across the Ozark highlands, while Mina Sauk Falls is the tallest waterfall in Missouri. Trails and overlooks in the state park provide access to both features.

Geologically the peak is part of an ancient Precambrian igneous complex that forms the St. Francois Mountains. The area has been managed as public parkland to conserve its distinctive upland ecology and provide hiking and outdoor recreation.

The mountain lies in southeastern Missouri within Reynolds County, inside Taum Sauk Mountain State Park and adjacent public lands. The nearest towns are in the rural Ozark region; the area is accessed by county roads and park entrances.

• Elevation and park status: The summit reaches 1,772 feet (540 metres) and lies within Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, which preserves upland oak-pine glades and exposed Precambrian bedrock.
• Waterfall and trail note: Mina Sauk Falls is seasonal and can be most impressive after heavy rain or spring melt; trail conditions can be slick on exposed rock surfaces.

What to See #

• Summit: A rocky summit at 1,772 feet (540 metres) above sea level that is the highest natural point in the state of Missouri.
• Mina Sauk Falls: Mina Sauk Falls, located on the mountain's slopes, represents Missouri's highest waterfall and is reached by trails within the state park.