Subject: Re: Bell Mountain & other shtuff

> 	I'd like to hear more about Bell Mountain.  Where is it and how 
> do you get there?

It is right near elephant rocks State park.  Get a map and find Belleview. 
It is south of Potosi on 21.  From Belleview, go Southwest on Route O. 
Drive through a valley...  (now I have to do some guesswork...) When you
start hitting the hills, Go about a mile???? maybe more maybe less???  (I
am not good at judging distances).  there will be a WELL USED forest road
(gravel, not muddy) on your right.  Turn right onto this road.  Continue
on this road for 5-10 minutes.  Go straight at all intersections. 
Eventually, you will see a parking lot.  The parking lot will be directly
in front of you as the road curves off to the right and down a hill. 
Immediately before the parking lot, there is a road on the left going down
the hill.  A trail goes into the woods here.  There will be a sign at the 
trail head.  Folow this well traveled trail which turns into a water 
run-off.  It will take you 1.5-2 hours to get to the top without a load.  
The trip is worth it, and it is also worth getting lost for.  :)  
Incredible views in all directions from the top of the mountain.

If you want, you can stop by Smith Sporting goods and pick up a
Topographical map of the area.  You will need three Quadrangles:  Banner,
MO, Johnson ShutIns, and some other adjacent map (I forget the name).  The
trail is on the map as are the forest roads.  Old man Smith will give you
a hand (although he isn't the friendliest person).  The name of the area
is Bell Mountain Wilderness. 

>  What kind of hike is it?

I have yet to find a difficult hike in missouri.  There is a short climb 
to the top of Bell Mountain.

>  Is there a trail, or more 
> than one trail?  

There is one, main, well travelled trail.  There are some little trails 
breaking off, but you can easily find the main trail... especially if you 
get the topos.

> In other words, is there a path or some clearly marked 
> way to go?

No blazes on the tress if that is what you mean.  Trail is only marked by 
foot wear.

>  Should we wear jeans to protect our legs? 

Never been there in the summer.  I would never wear jeans hiking 
however.  Lightweight non-cotton loose fitting pants are best for summer 
hiking.  Jeans contrict your movement and make you work harder.  I don't 
know how overgrown things get in the summer, but would bring some sort of 
pants.

> Is it difficult?  

it is flat most of the way, and with a small day pack on, it is easy.

> Do we have to pay for parking or anything like that?

Nope.  National Wilderness Area..

>  You probably know 
> better than I what I need to know.  I'm a complete novice, but I'm 
> willing to learn and make mistakes.  However, if you could tell me 
> anything that would keep me from killing myself, I would be appreciative. :>

Hope that helps.  If you are worried about getting lost, another option 
would be Sam A Baker State Park... you want want to call them for more 
information.  it is about a 3 hour drive and has some beautiful vistas 
and areas.  This is the only moderately difficult hike I have found in MO.

If you don't want to drive far, check out Hawn State Park or Meramec 
State Park.  They are good for weekdays (too busy on weekends).  They are 
about an hour away from St. Louis and provide some decent hiking 
(although not great).