Travel with us across the rolling terrain of southwest Missouri as we drive 12 miles west along Missouri Route 76, from the quiet banks of Forsyth to the bustling gateway of Branson in Hollister. This stretch of Route 76 is a scenic and transitional route—starting in a peaceful river town and ending at the doorstep of one of Missouri’s busiest tourist corridors. Though short in length, the drive offers a variety of Ozark landscapes, from wooded valleys and lakeside crossings to emerging suburban sprawl as we approach the Branson metro area.
We begin our journey in the town of Forsyth, turning onto Route 76 from U.S. Highway 160. Forsyth, nestled along the northern shore of Lake Taneycomo, serves as the county seat of Taney County and retains a small-town charm despite being only a short drive from Branson’s entertainment district. Within minutes of our departure, we cross a bridge over Lake Taneycomo—a long, narrow lake created by the damming of the White River. This lake is especially popular with anglers due to its cold, trout-friendly waters, and it provides a serene introduction to our route. On the opposite side, we enter the tiny community of Mildred, where Route 76 pivots westward.
Continuing westbound, we travel through the wooded hills that characterize the Ozark Plateau. The terrain begins to rise and fall more noticeably as we enter the community of Kirbyville. Though modest in size, Kirbyville functions as a residential hub for those working in the Branson area, offering a quieter lifestyle amid the pines and hollows. Here, Route 76 bends northwest, beginning its descent into the growing suburban spread of Branson’s outskirts. Along the way, we pass Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery, a well-maintained and locally significant burial ground just off the highway.
As we near Hollister, the road curves around the edge of the Lake Taneycomo valley. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with tighter curves and steeper grades—hallmarks of Ozark driving. Eventually, we descend into the valley and reach the eastern edge of Hollister at the large roundabout junction with Branson Landing Boulevard and U.S. Highway 65 Business. This location sits just across the lake from downtown Branson and is a key access point for visitors heading to Branson Landing, the downtown riverfront, or further into the hills of western Taney County.
Route 76 west of this roundabout becomes a core arterial road for tourism, feeding into the main Branson strip lined with theaters, shops, and attractions. But in this segment between Forsyth and Hollister, Route 76 offers a much quieter, more reflective slice of the Ozarks—perfect for travelers seeking the scenic route into town. Whether you’re towing a boat to Lake Taneycomo, commuting from Forsyth, or just enjoying the drive, this stretch delivers both convenience and visual reward.
🗺️ Route Map
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