The scenic Frisco Highline Trail is 35 miles long, from Springfield to Bolivar, Missouri. In 1948, Harry Truman rode the 35 miles from Springfield to Bolivar and back in his private railroad car, warming up for his famous “Whistlestop” campaign that would get him re-elected as President that November. The tracks are gone now, the old stations have been torn down, and the wail of the steam whistle has been replaced by silence and bird songs.
1999 ~ The first section of the Frisco Highline Trail stretching 10 miles from Willard to Walnut Grove, was completed and officially opened on National Trails Day. ~ 2003 ~ The Springfield to Willard link of the trail is officially opened to the public.~
Directions to Willard Trailhead from Springfield: From Springfield, go north on US-160 (West Bypass) to Willard. Exit east (right) to the downtown business district on Jackson St. Trail parking is available at the paved trailhead next to Willard Middle School on Jackson Street.
Parking: Yes
Restroom/Water: Yes, across the street at Willard City Pool (Open: 9AM -10PM spring to fall, weather dependent in winter); There is a convenience store at mile marker 5.5, and also between mile marker 8-9 at the junction of highways 160 and 123. The trail head also has Restrooms/Water located at the Century 21 Red building in the parking lot.
