Shepherd of the Hills is a historic & cultural landmark in Branson, Missouri, rooted in the Ozark region’s rich history. It originated from the novel, “Shepherd of the Hills”, written by Harold Bell Wright & published in 1907. The novel, set in the Ozarks, & based off of a real-life homestead called Mutton Hollow, it tells the story of the mountain people, their way of life, & captures the beauty & hardships of the region.
The Family Adventure Park Today
Shepherd of the Hills today is a family adventure park complete with the iconic Inspiration Tower, canopy zipline tours, extreme zipline tours, ropes courses, the longest mountain coaster in Branson, a live show theater, & more.
Key Features & Attractions:
Outdoor Live Shows
One of the most significant attractions is the outdoor drama based on the novel, which has been performed since the 1960s. Some of the shows include dinner, some are comedic whodunnits, & others depict the life of the homesteaders in the Ozarks.
Wild West Murder Mystery Show
The BRAND NEW Wild West Murder Mystery Show offers an immersive & thrilling experience, especially for kids! Guests are invited to step back in time to the Wild West, where they become part of the action, solving clues & uncovering secrets alongside a cast of colorful characters.
This a comedic whodunnit, interactive mystery show for families, with performances by Johnny Lonestar from America’s Got Talent, trick riding & shooting, & Flash the Wonder Horse.
I didn’t know what to expect when we showed up to this, but halfway through the first act, my 8-year-old son turned to me & said, “Thank you mom for bringing me here, I really love it.” I melted, that’s exactly what ever mom wants to hear. It was funny & it was entertaining for all ages.
Cost to go to the wild west murder mystery show only:
You have a few options for getting tickets for this show. Prices for individual adult tickets are $44.75 & individual kid tickets (ages 4-12) are $27.75. If you are going to take a larger family, then it’s best to purchase a family pass! Family passes for 2 adults & 2,4, or 6 kids are $129+ fees + taxes. This really does make it an extremely cost effective family outing!
Shepherd’s Grill
Our show started at 8:00 PM, so we stopped by the park at 6:00 PM to eat at the Shepherd’s Grill. Here we ordered dinner & ate, explored the park for the hour before the show, & then got seated around 7:40. We ordered 2 kids’ menu meals & an adult meal. I thought the food was pretty good & was a good price for us as family. I love when I feel like a meal is worth the price!
Included in your Adventure Park Ticket
- 9 Hole Mini-Golf
- Treetop Trail
- Multiple Playgrounds
- Barnyard Animals
- Gem Mining
- Old Homestead Cabins
Copperhead Mountain Coaster
If you’re looking for a mix of adventure and scenic beauty in Branson, Missouri, the Copperhead Mountain Coaster is a must-try experience. Located at the Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park, this alpine coaster is the longest in Branson and offers a thrilling ride through the Ozark Mountains.
What to Expect
The copperhead-themed mountain coaster features over 3,350 feet of downhill track, where riders control their own speed, reaching up to 25 mph. The ride starts with a scenic uphill climb before sending you twisting and turning through forested terrain, sharp curves, and fun dips that mimic the movement of a copperhead snake. Whether you’re looking for a high-speed rush or a leisurely glide through the trees, you can customize your ride with the handbrake controls.
Why It’s Unique
- Longest downhill ride in Branson
- Self-controlled speed for a personalized thrill
- Open year-round, including night rides with LED track lighting
- Kid-friendly – Riders as young as 3 can join with an adult
- Beautiful views of the Ozarks
Know Before You Go
- Location: Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park
- Hours: Vary by season; night rides available
- Height/Weight Requirements: Drivers must be at least 54 inches tall, and passengers must be at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall. The combined weight limit is 375 lbs.
- Tickets: Prices vary, with discounts for multiple rides
Ziplining at Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park
Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park in Branson, Missouri, offers two incredible ziplining experiences: the Vigilante Extreme ZipRider and the Zipline Canopy Tour. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a scenic ride through the Ozarks, this park has something for everyone.
Vigilante Extreme ZipRider – A High-Speed Adventure
If you’re a thrill-seeker, the Vigilante Extreme ZipRider is the ultimate zipline experience in Branson. Starting from the top of the Inspiration Tower (the highest point in Missouri), this ride launches you half a mile down the mountain at speeds of up to 55 mph! The ride is unique because:
- You sit in a comfortable harness-style seat, so no need to hold on.
- Four riders can launch at the same time, making it a great group activity.
- It features an automatic braking system, ensuring a smooth landing.
- The stunning views of the Ozarks make it one of the most scenic ziplines in the region.
Requirements:
- Riders must weigh between 75 and 275 pounds.
- No special skills required—just sit back and enjoy the ride!
Zipline Canopy Tour – A Scenic Treetop Experience
For a more immersive nature adventure, the Zipline Canopy Tour takes you on a guided journey through the treetops of the Ozark Mountains. This experience includes multiple ziplines and sky bridges, allowing you to enjoy the forest from above while zipping between platforms. It’s great for families and those who prefer a slower-paced but still exciting zipline experience.
Requirements:
- Open to riders as young as 3 years old (weight limit 275 lbs).
- Minimal hiking or stair climbing required.
- Closed-toe shoes are required.
Why You Should Try It
- Best views in Branson—whether high-speed or scenic, both ziplines offer incredible Ozark Mountain scenery.
- Family-friendly options—choose an extreme adventure or a relaxed ride through the treetops.
- Year-round fun—these ziplines operate in multiple seasons, making them a great activity no matter when you visit.
Inspiration Tower at Shepherd of the Hills
Standing 230 feet tall, Inspiration Tower is the highest point in southwest Missouri and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ozark Mountains. Located at Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park, this towering structure serves as both a scenic observation deck and a launching point for the Vigilante Extreme ZipRider, one of Branson’s most thrilling attractions. Visitors can take a glass-enclosed elevator to the top, where they’ll enjoy unobstructed 360-degree views stretching for miles. Whether you’re capturing the beauty of the Ozarks during the day or witnessing a stunning sunset, Inspiration Tower is a must-visit landmark in Branson.
Enjoy Your Trip!
Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, a journey through Ozark history, or a fun-filled family adventure, Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park delivers an unforgettable experience. From the high-speed rush of the Vigilante Extreme ZipRider to the immersive storytelling of the outdoor drama, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As one of Branson’s most iconic attractions, this park offers a perfect blend of adventure, entertainment, and scenic beauty. Make sure to add it to your itinerary for a memorable visit to the Ozarks!
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