Ep 6. Missouri

In Aerial America season 2 episode 6, viewers are taken on a stunning tour of Missouri from a helicopter's perspective. From the Mississippi River to the Ozark Mountains, the episode highlights the state's diverse geography and rich history.

The show begins by showcasing the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, a 630-foot monument that serves as a symbol of Missouri's role as the gateway to the west. The arch is an engineering masterpiece that required a team of workers to construct it over the course of several years. Viewers get a bird's eye view of the arch and learn about its significance in American history.

Next, the episode takes viewers to the Ozark Mountains, a beautiful range known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. The mountains are home to several state parks, including Elephant Rocks State Park and Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. The former is a giant playground of pink granite boulders that visitors can climb on, while the latter features a natural waterpark with waterfalls and pools.

Continuing on the outdoor recreation theme, the show then moves to the Lake of the Ozarks, a massive man-made reservoir that covers over 54,000 acres. The lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. Viewers get a spectacular view of the lake from above, showing its complex shoreline and countless coves and inlets.

Moving on to Missouri's history, the show highlights the state's role in the Civil War. The Battle of Wilson's Creek, fought near Springfield in 1861, was one of the earliest major battles of the war. The episode discusses the battle and shows the site of the historic confrontation from above.

Next, the show moves to the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri. Mark Twain, one of America's most beloved writers, grew up in Hannibal and used it as inspiration for many of his stories. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Twain's life, and viewers get to see the town and surrounding countryside from the air.

The episode then takes viewers to Jefferson City, Missouri's capital. The city is located on the Missouri River and is home to many historic buildings, including the Missouri State Penitentiary, which operated from 1836 until 2004 and was once the largest prison in the United States. Viewers get a view of the prison from the air and learn about its history.

Finally, the episode moves to the Katy Trail State Park, a 240-mile long rail trail that stretches across the state. The park was created on the former right-of-way of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad and offers hikers, bikers, and equestrians a stunning tour of the Missouri countryside. Viewers get a bird's eye view of the trail as it winds through forests, fields, and small towns.

Overall, Aerial America season 2 episode 6 offers a breathtaking tour of Missouri that highlights the state's beauty and history. From the Gateway Arch to the Katy Trail, the episode showcases the best of this Midwestern state from an entirely new perspective.