Bell Mountain Wilderness is located within the Mark Twain National Forest in a rugged area of the St. Francois Mountains, one of the oldest land forms in North America. Bell Mountain (which is a long ridge) and Lindsey Mountain both have open glades offering views of the surrounding forest. Shut-In Creek has a rocky streambed with steep boulders and talus slopes. There are 12 miles of trail within the Wilderness, but they are not marked or maintained. Topographic maps and a good compass are needed to hike these trails. Open water is not recommended for drinking.

The northernmost section of the Taum Sauk Section of the Ozark Trail traverses 3 miles of the Bell Mountain Wilderness. It winds its way up the side of Bell Mountain through forest and open glades and then continues onto private lands.

• Hike the 12 miles of trail in the Wilderness but be prepared for a challenge as trails are not marked or maintained. Bring a compass and a topographic map!
• Climb Bell Mountain for a spectacular panoramic vista.