Spring is a beautiful time in the Ozarks – the dogwood trees and tulips are blooming and the color of spring draws us outside.  Branson has a reputation for its award winning shows – but did you know there are countless places to explore and things to see “outside” the theatres?  The Branson area boasts more than 200 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback-riding trails.  The next several blogs will feature some of the magnificent Ozark trails. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park offers a variety of unsurpassed outdoor activities for the entire family.  Located less than 30 miles south of Branson, activities include walking and biking trails, wildlife tram tour, self-guided trout fishing, horseback riding, and more.  The Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area is a 130-acre park accessible from Highway 76 “Strip” on Fall Creek Road.  The park offers rugged hiking trails as well as a less physically challenging hike on a flatter course.  For you aerobic enthusiasts, the original trail has 315 stone steps that were placed by hand decades ago.  Regardless of which trail you choose – your hike will be graced with scenic views and fresh Ozark mountain air!  The Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area is located just two blocks south of the Dixie Stampede.  So enjoy your hike – and then feast on great food and a spectacular show that night!