Bell Mountain Wilderness facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bell Mountain Wilderness |
|
|---|---|
|
IUCN Category Ib (Wilderness Area)
|
|
View east to Lindsey Mountain from glade on Bell Mountain, November 2010
|
|
 Bell Mountain Wilderness
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Iron County, Missouri, United States |
| Nearest city | Potosi, Missouri |
| Area | 9,027 acres (37 km2) |
| Established | 1980 |
| Governing body | U.S. Forest Service |
The Bell Mountain Wilderness is a special natural area in Missouri, United States. It was set aside by the United States Congress in 1980 to protect its wild beauty. This wilderness covers about 9,027 acres (36.5 km²) of land. You can find it within the Potosi-Fredericktown Ranger District of the Mark Twain National Forest, south of Potosi, Missouri.
Contents
Exploring Bell Mountain Wilderness
The Bell Mountain Wilderness is a protected area in the St. Francois Mountains of Missouri. It was named after its highest point, Bell Mountain, which stands at 1,702 feet (519 meters) tall. The mountain itself got its name from Henry Bell, an early settler in the area.
What is a Wilderness Area?
A wilderness area is a place where nature is kept as wild as possible. The goal is to protect the land, plants, and animals from human changes. In these areas, you won't find roads, buildings, or machines. Instead, people can enjoy nature through activities like hiking and camping. Bell Mountain Wilderness is one of eight such special places in Missouri.
Fun Things to Do
Bell Mountain Wilderness is a popular spot for outdoor adventures. If you love hiking, you'll find about 12 miles (19 km) of trails to explore. A part of the famous Ozark Trail also runs through this wilderness. It's a great place to experience nature and see wildlife.
Nearby Natural Wonders
The Bell Mountain Wilderness is part of a larger network of parks and conservation areas. It's close to other amazing places like Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park and Taum Sauk Mountain State Park. These nearby spots offer even more opportunities to explore Missouri's beautiful natural landscapes.
