Porphyry Mountain

Porphyry Mountain is a moderate out-and-back hike in Missouri, about 0.4 miles from the town of Eminence. The route is roughly 6.5 miles long, with a total elevation gain of about 1,494 feet, and it reaches a high point of 1,012 feet. The climb is steady, and the steepest stretch comes at about 1.8 miles in, where the grade reaches 19 percent. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station in Eminence show October highs around 73°F with lows near 42°F, and April is similar at about 71°F by day and 42°F at night. That station sits a few hundred feet lower than the high point, so temperatures on the summit run a little cooler. The trail is open to horses, and bikes are not allowed. Plan for about three hours on the trail. Granny Smith Hollow and Granny Smith Ridge are both within about a mile and a half, and Lick Log Hollow is about 1.4 miles away. Paddlers can find Mahans Creek about 4.5 miles off.