From the parking lot, there is a paved path to the Mill. Go left to switchbacks that quickly climb the bluff to the overlook. You'll then hike through the forest along the ridge. Longer switchbacks take you back down to a short bit on a gravel road. Keep right across a grassy area to rejoin the singletrack trail along the spring branch. You may be sharing this stretch with other visitors, but there are lots of cool rock formations to enjoy on your way back to the spring. The trail goes around the spring to the Mill. Flora & Fauna Ovenbird, Hooded Warbler, Pine Warbler, American Redstart. Compass plant, coneflower, and shortleaf pine. Green damselflies at the spring. History & Background Lots of interpretive signs and helpful NPS folks to fill you in on Ozark history.

Alley Spring is in the heart of the Ozark National Scenic Riverway. It has a lively past that you can learn about while you soak up the splendid scenery. At the spring, cold, clear water rises from deep in the spring at about 81 million gallons per day. The basin of the spring is in the shape of a funnel, with the deepest area being 32 feet. From the edge of the mill, you might be able to spot tiny snails and minnows within the clusters of watercress. Sometimes, depending on the time of year, you might also see mink, muskrat and banded water snakes. The short hike around the spring is surrounded by slick rock walls. This makes the hike a little cooler than the rest of the park on hot days. These ecosystems are very fragile and should not be interfered with. If you find yourself there, make sure you practice Leave No Trace policies.