Hermitage: Trails, Water, and History

Explore Hermitage through three distinct highlights: hiking trails in the wooded landscape, activities on Pomme de Terre Lake, and local history. Pomme de Terre State Park extends across both the Hermitage and Pittsburg sides of the lake. The lake lies among the rugged, wooded hills of the west-central Missouri Ozarks on the Pomme de Terre River. You can plan your trip to Hermitage around nature, water activities, or an interest in cultural history.

Distinguishing the lake from the river

It helps to distinguish between the lake and the river when finding your way around. The state park is located on both sides of Pomme de Terre Lake, while Hermitage Access provides access to the Pomme de Terre River. Hermitage Access is 0.25 miles south of Hermitage on Highway 254 and has a boat ramp and parking lot. This gives you a specific reference point for river access; the state park's public swimming areas, by contrast, are on the lake.

Hiking two distinct trails

The Cedar Bluff Trail is a 1.50-mile hiking loop. Its trailhead is south of the restroom facility at Hermitage Campground. On the Hermitage side, the trail follows the rocky lakeside bluffs. The loop format and distance give you a clear basis for fitting a hike into your day. There is also a multi-use trail at Pomme de Terre Lake, where hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking are permitted.

Swimming, fishing, and river activities

The two public swimming areas at Pomme de Terre State Park are located on opposite sides of the lake. At Pomme de Terre Lake, you can fish for bass, walleye, catfish, crappie, and muskellunge. This distinguishes the activities available at the lake—swimming and fishing—from those on the river. Below the Pomme de Terre Dam, Outlet Park on the Pomme de Terre River offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. A boat ramp at Outlet Park provides access to the river below the dam. Launching boats there is free of charge; restrooms are within walking distance.

A look at local history

The Hickory County Historical Society Museum is located in the John Siddles Williams House on Museum Street in Hermitage. The house has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1980. The Hickory County Historical Society maintains the museum and research center. If you would like to include the museum in your travel plans, check visitor information in advance.

Seasonal notes for planning

Interpretive programs are offered at Pomme de Terre State Park during the summer months. If you want to plan around a specific program, check the dates for your travel period. Seasonal closures may apply to the multi-use trail; check access in advance if you plan to use it.

For the broader travel overview: Hickory County.