The area is characterized by shallow droughty soils and limestone rock outcroppings. Eastern red cedar and oak trees are interspersed with open glades supporting native tall prairie grasses. Redbud and dogwood provide beautiful spring flowers, while smoketree and maple put on vivid fall color displays.

The elevation range exceeds 600 feet between the high points, such as Pilot Knob and Coy Bald and the bottom of Long Creek. Only portions of Long and Cane Creeks contain water the year round.

A variety of wildlife species live within the Hercules Glades, including white-tailed deer, raccoons, rabbits, squirrels, turkeys, quail, numerous songbirds, small lizards, and snakes. Copperheads and rattlesnakes may be encountered. Roadrunners, collared lizards, and tarantulas are some of the more uncommon wildlife residents.

Hercules Glades has long been recognized for its special qualities. It was designated a Wilderness in Public Law 94-557, October 1976, and is managed under the provisions of the Wilderness Act of 1964. Hercules Glades is one of eight wildernesses in Missouri, seven of which are part of the Mark Twain National Forest.

Move on to Mark Twain National Forest Index

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