Missouri State Route 39: Shell Knob to Carr Lane

Join us as we travel 13 miles south through the scenic Ozarks along Missouri State Route 39, beginning just north of Shell Knob and ending at the junction with Route 86 in Carr Lane. This stretch of highway is a quintessential Ozark drive—rolling hills, winding curves, and a blend of lake views and forested ridgelines make for a memorable ride.

Our journey begins at a scenic overlook on MO-39, perched just above Shell Knob. As we descend into town, we catch glimpses of Table Rock Lake shimmering to the south. Upon reaching the heart of Shell Knob, we pass the intersection with Missouri Route YY and turn south to cross the State Senator Larry Gene Taylor Memorial Bridge—a graceful span over Table Rock Lake that offers sweeping views of the water and surrounding highlands. This bridge marks one of the most photogenic points along the route, particularly during sunrise or when the lake is still and mirror-like.

Once across the lake, we begin a gentle but steady climb out of the valley. The terrain here is classic Ozark: narrow hollows, high ridges, and dense hardwood forests. As we make our way toward the small town of Viola, the route briefly straightens out through a series of farmsteads and open clearings, offering a quick break from the otherwise curvy terrain. In Viola, we turn south once again, continuing our descent through Barry County’s rural landscape.

South of Viola, Route 39 skirts the edge of the Pilot Knob Conservation Area, a quiet but beautiful slice of the Missouri Department of Conservation’s holdings. While there aren’t formal hiking trails directly off the highway, the landscape is dotted with wildlife and spring wildflowers in season. It’s a nice detour for birdwatchers or anyone craving solitude among the pines and oaks.

Approaching Carr Lane, the forest thins, giving way to a more pastoral landscape with occasional views toward Arkansas just to the south. Carr Lane itself is a small rural community, but it holds a bit of significance for travelers—it’s a common turnoff point for those heading west toward Eagle Rock or east toward Blue Eye. We end our drive at intersection with Missouri Route 86, where Route 39 continues just a bit farther south toward the Arkansas line.