Discovering Branson's Hidden Gems: An Insider's Guide with Gliding Light Paddle Company

 Discovering Branson's Hidden Gems: An Insider's Guide with Gliding Light Paddle Company

There's more to Branson, Missouri than the famous Strip and legendary shows. Beyond the bustling attractions lies a world of crystal-clear waters, stunning sunsets, and peaceful paddleboard evenings that'll take your breath away.

In our latest podcast episode, we chatted with Danielle, owner of Gliding Light Paddle Company, to get the real insider scoop on what makes this corner of the Ozarks so magical.

From Burnout to Finding Home on the Water

Back in 2016, Danielle was burned out after 14 years in healthcare. When a friend invited her paddleboarding, her life changed completely.

"I stepped onto that paddle board and I felt like I was at home," Danielle told us. "All of my exhaustion, my burnout—it was gone."

She dove in headfirst, completing yoga and SUP yoga certifications before launching her business on Table Rock Lake. By 2020, she'd become the number one Glide Paddleboards ambassador in the entire United States.

Where Everyone Belongs

What we love most about Gliding Light Paddle Company is how Danielle makes everyone feel welcome. Every person starts with Paddleboard 101, creating an amazing inclusive vibe where tourists and locals become friends on the water.

"For every person I come in contact with, I want them to feel seen and heard," Danielle shared. And trust us, you absolutely feel it.

Danielle's Favorite Branson Spots (The Good Stuff!)

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park - Bike 8-10 miles through stunning scenery, waterfalls, and actual bison!

Devil's Pool and Buzzard Bar - Delicious food at Big Cedar Lodge plus a hilarious comedian-guitarist.

Helicopter Tours - The best way to see the gorgeous Tri-Lakes area from above.

Clevenger Cove - Danielle's go-to spot on the lake with free public parking. Seriously serene.

Fall Creek Trail at Lakeside Forest - Beautiful hike to a Lake Taneycomo overlook with a seasonal waterfall.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas - About an hour away, this charming mountain town is worth the drive for the food and artsy vibe alone.

The Secret Season: Fall and Winter Magic

Here's something most visitors don't know—while summer is fantastic for paddleboarding, Danielle's favorite time in Branson is actually fall and winter. The lake becomes like glass, trees explode with color, and Silver Dollar City goes all out with festivals and incredible Christmas displays.

Danielle and her husband have a sweet tradition: every week in December, they have date night at Silver Dollar City with hot cocoa, funnel cakes, and train rides through the massive light displays.

Adventures Near and Far

Danielle's favorite paddling spot in the U.S.? Jenny Lake in the Grand Tetons. And she's got something incredible coming up: a five-day paddleboard expedition in Norway for her 40th birthday in July 2026, camping along the fjords and paddling 60 miles.

Words of Wisdom

Want to turn your passion into something real? "Get connected with your community. Show up at events, allow yourself to be seen. Building a business really is about building relationships."

Ready to Visit?

Gliding Light Paddle Company runs classes from late spring through early November. The final paddles for 2025 are October 25th and November 1st—perfect timing to catch those fall colors on the water!

Find Gliding Light Paddle Co. on Facebook and Instagram, or visit glidinglightpaddle.com (relaunching spring 2026).

Sometimes the best adventures start with simply saying yes to something new. Who knows? Your next paddleboard might just feel like coming home.

Listen to episodes here, follow us @MarryingYourPassions, and visit marringyourpassions.com to join our growing community of passion-driven adventurers.