Chadwick Flyer Bicycling & Walking Trail
Follow the Path of the Old Chadwick Flyer Railway
Where Past Meets Present
Following the historic route of the Chadwick Flyer Trail, a railroad that once connected Springfield to Chadwick, Missouri, this rail-to-trail project brings a piece of local history to life.
The Chadwick Flyer operated from the late 1800s through the 1930s, transporting people and goods through the Ozarks. Today, the trail is being transformed into a paved, multi-use trail for walking, running, and biking.
With the opening of the Chadwick Flyer Bridge over Highway 65, the trail now offers a safer and more connected experience in Ozark, Missouri. This dedicated crossing links key sections of the trail and marks a major step forward in the project’s development.
This connection allows for more continuous travel across Ozark without needing to navigate Highway 65 traffic.
The trail currently extends from the Ozark Community Center to a point north of Olde World Estates, with a spur connecting to Ozark High School. As part of a regional trail system, the Chadwick Flyer Trail will continue expanding to connect more communities along this historic corridor.
History
The Chadwick Flyer was originally a branch line of the Frisco Railroad, built in the 1880s as a standard gauge rail line to avoid complications with goods transfer.
Initially planned to extend further south, financial limitations halted construction at Chadwick. The railroad served small towns and depots, transporting goods like cotton, railroad ties, and other supplies. Known for its leisurely speed of around 10 mph, it was still a faster option than horseback travel at the time.
The line fell out of use during the Great Depression and was officially abandoned past Ozark in 1933. Today, the Chadwick Flyer Trail in Ozark, Missouri repurposes this historic path into a modern connection for outdoor recreation, transportation, and community access.
Trail Highlights
- Multi-use trail for biking, walking, and running
- Follows a historic rail corridor through the Ozarks
- Scenic stretches with a mix of neighborhoods and natural areas
- Highway 65 pedestrian bridge connection now open
- Ongoing expansion as part of a regional trail network
Visitor Tips
- Open year-round for all skill levels
- Access points include the Ozark Community Center and Ozark High School spur
- Great for quick walks or longer rides across town
- Trail conditions may vary during ongoing development and expansion
The Chadwick Flyer Trail is a unique blend of history and outdoor adventure, offering a glimpse into the region’s past while shaping its future.
For more details and updates, visit: Ozark Greenways and City of Ozark.
Trail Highlights
- Multi-use trail for biking, walking, and running
- Follows a historic rail corridor through the Ozarks
- Scenic stretches with a mix of neighborhoods and natural areas
- Highway 65 pedestrian bridge connection now open
- Ongoing expansion as part of a regional trail network
Visitor Tips
- Open year-round for all skill levels
- Access points include the Ozark Community Center and Ozark High School spur
- Great for quick walks or longer rides across town
- Trail conditions may vary during ongoing development and expansion
The Chadwick Flyer Trail is a unique blend of history and outdoor adventure, offering a glimpse into the region’s past while shaping its future.
For more details and updates, visit: Ozark Greenways and City of Ozark.
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The Official Christian County Area Guide
Your next adventure is closer than you think.
