ALLEY SPRING MILL
Rushing water was the power that turned grain into flour and timber into lumber at the many historic mills that you can visit around West Plains. Some mills provide an interpretive history about life in the 1800s, while others simply provide a place to walk, take photos, or just enjoy the beauty and history of the Ozarks.
Alley Spring Mill
37.1442141-91.4615359
- 7th largest spring in Missouri
- 81 million gallons per day
- Spring conduit extends at least 3,000 feet underground
- Spring lake approximately 155 feet deep
- Mill was built in 1894
“A mill was vital to community life, where grain was ground to provide the daily bread. The present building was constructed during 1893-1894 by George Washington McCaskill as a merchant mill. It was larger than most mills in the Jacks Fork area and replaced an earlier mill on this same site that was built by 1868. Originally unpainted, it was first painted white with green trim, then later the famous red color associated with Alley Mill today.” ~ Cindy Von Halle
There are several things to see and do at Alley. Alley Mill is open to visitors. (Check days and times using links below). Informal tours are available upon request.
Storys Creek One Room Schoolhouse is within walking distance of the mill and has limited hours. A pavilion and public restrooms are available on the property.
Two hiking paths begin at the mill. One is a 1.8-mile loop that goes up the bluff to a breath-taking view of the mill. The other is a short walk around the mill pond and alongside the Alley Branch. It ends at a foot bridge leading back to the parking lot.
https://www.nps.gov/ozar/learn/historyculture/alley-mill.htm
https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/alley-spring
50 miles From West Plains
Take Highway 63 north toward Willow Springs. Just before Willow Springs, take Highway 60 east toward Mountain View. Stay on Highway 60 for 15 miles then turn left on Highway 17 north. In 13.5 miles, turn right onto Highway 106. In approximately 14 miles, the entrance to Alley Spring and Mill will be on your left.
Make it a day Trip
Visit other attractions close by: