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Outdoor Initiatives


Outdoor Initiatives provides adventure trips, outdoor recreation programs & education at an affordable price to the community. Leave No Trace guidelines are followed on all excursions. Scholarships may be available, call 833-8647. Office location: Valley Water Mill Park, 2450 E. Valley Water Mill Rd.

  2. Fall Hiking Series


    Hit the trail with us this fall, exploring some of the finest scenery in the Ozarks. These trips are moderate-to strenuous in difficulty, so physical fitness is required. Transportation provided. Bring your own lunch, snacks and water. Register online by Fri. before each hike.

    15 yrs. and up (15-17 yrs. with an adult)
    Sat., 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
    Sept. 14: Sam’s Throne (2 miles)
    Oct. 12: Yellow Rock Loop, Devil’s Den State Park (3 miles)
    Nov. 16: Sandstone Trail, Prairie State Park (5 miles)
    Dec. 7: Natural Tunnel Trail, Bennett Springs State Park (7.5 miles)
    $20/Person

  3. The Ultimate Springfield Cave Tour


    A full day of caving adventure in the Springfield area, including a hiking tour that highlights the outside of the caves at Ritter Springs Park, a walking tour through Giboney Cave in Doling Park, and a guided boat tour through Sequiota Cave in Sequiota Park. Bring your own snacks and water. Transportation provided. Register online by Nov. 22.

    5 yrs. and up (5-17 yrs. with an adult)
    Nov. 23-24
    Sat. Tour 1: 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
    Sat. Tour 2: Noon-4:30 p.m.
    Sun. Tour 1: 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
    Sun. Tour 2: Noon-4:30 p.m.
    $15/Person