If you’re looking for a drive that combines rolling hills, lakeside views, classic Ozark scenery, and a taste of small-town Missouri charm, Missouri Route 76 from Cape Fair to Cassville is a fantastic choice. Spanning about 22 miles, this route offers not just a way from point A to point B, but a memorable experience through the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, winding along bluffs, forests, and rural communities.
We kick off our journey in Cape Fair, a relaxed lakeside village perched on the northern edge of Table Rock Lake. Right from the intersection with MO-173, Route 76 pulls you west and quickly into some of the most scenic backroads in the region. Don’t miss the nearby Cape Fair Marina if you want to catch a glimpse of lake life or even take a short detour to the public fishing areas—Table Rock Lake is famous for its bass fishing, so bring a rod if you have time. Just a couple of miles in, you’ll find the intersection with Supplemental Route EE, where Route 76 angles southwest, beginning a beautiful stretch of road that feels tucked away from the rest of the world.
For the next seven miles, MO-76 twists through densely wooded hills and valleys, giving you that quintessential Ozark vibe: forested slopes, occasional wildlife crossings, and scenic ridges with glimpses of Table Rock Lake’s fingers reaching into the landscape. This part of the route is especially pretty in the spring and fall when the leaves show off their color. Soon, you’ll reach the intersection with Missouri Route 39, just north of the laid-back town of Shell Knob. If you have a little time, a detour south into Shell Knob puts you right on the lake’s edge, where you’ll find lakeside parks, boat rentals, and cozy local cafes. Here, Route 76 briefly runs north alongside Route 39 for about a mile—keep your eyes peeled for local signage, as the conjoined segment can be a little confusing if you’re not paying attention.
Once you part ways with MO-39, Route 76 bends southwest again, leading you deeper into Barry County’s rolling countryside. This is where the Ozarks really spread out: rolling meadows, old barns, and stretches of forest lining the road. You’ll pass through intersections with smaller supplemental highways—like Route M—where you can spot the occasional farmhouse or roadside market. The drive here is peaceful and offers plenty of classic Midwestern photo ops, so it’s worth stopping at a few scenic pull-offs if you’re not in a rush.
About five miles after the Route M intersection, you’ll approach Missouri Route 86, just east of Cassville. This stretch is especially quiet, and it’s a good chance to enjoy the open road. If you’re making the full trip, consider stopping in Cassville itself. The town is home to Roaring River State Park, just a few minutes south—a favorite local spot for trout fishing, hiking, and camping. The park features one of Missouri’s most scenic trout streams, a beautiful spring, and several historic structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
This route isn’t just a connector; it’s a slice of Ozarks life. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, a peaceful drive, or a way to explore local history and communities, Route 76 from Cape Fair to Cassville checks all the boxes.
🗺️ Route Map
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