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Highway 19: Salem to Eminence, Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri
Photo: Ozark Postcard Publishers, Monett, Mo.

Drives Missouri The Ozarks: Arkansas and Missouri

Highway 19: Salem to Eminence

MO 19 · Salem → Eminence

Sweeping41 mi55 min2,200 ft climbHigh point ≈ 1,300 ftOne way
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The drive

Highway 19 south of Salem is a 40.8-mile run to Eminence, with two twisty stretches in an otherwise sweeping road. South of Cuba the highway is designated a scenic route, and it passes through Ozark National Scenic Riverways and parts of the Mark Twain National Forest.

Round Spring sits right on the road, north of Eminence. The park has campgrounds there, and Round Spring Caverns offers ranger-led tours in summer. The riverways were created by Congress in 1964 and protect the Current and Jacks Fork rivers; Eminence is one of the nearest towns. The drive continues on Highway 106 east from Eminence.

Along the way

  1. Salem (Highway 19 south)
  2. Round Spring (Current River)
  3. Eminence
Elevation
2,200 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 1,300 ft
SalemEminence
Curves
Mostly gentle, with two twisty stretches
SalemEminence
GentleHairpins

Good to know

  • Driving through Ozark National Scenic Riverways is free; the park says no entrance pass is required.
  • Round Spring Ranger Station is open in summer only, typically Memorial Day to Labor Day.
  • Fees apply for developed campgrounds and Round Spring Cave tours.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Ozark National Scenic Riverways: Current Conditions.

Questions about this drive

How long does Highway 19 from Salem to Eminence take?

Highway 19 from Salem to Eminence is 40.8 miles and takes about 55 minutes.

Is Highway 19 in Missouri a scenic route?

South of Cuba, Missouri Route 19 is designated a scenic route through the Ozark National Scenic Riverways and parts of Mark Twain National Forest.

Where is Round Spring on Highway 19?

Round Spring is on Highway 19 north of Eminence, in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

What you get in the app

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More drives near here

Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

Map of Highway 19: Salem to Eminence, from Salem to Eminence