Hike this 244 Mile Trail from Arkansas to Oklahoma
Hike the Ouachita National Recreational Trail
Facts:
- 224 Mile Trail
- Time: 11-14 Days
- In-and-Out Trail
- Covers Two States
- Open Year Round
Features:
- Scenic Views
About Ouachita National Recreational Trail
The Ouachita National Recreation Trail is approximately 224 miles long and is an in-and-out trail. The total elevation gain is about 32,276 feet. Of the 224 miles, 192 miles are a part of the Ouachita National Forest, and 31 miles are a part of the Pinnacle Mountain State Park.
The trail spans two states, 177 miles in Arkansas and 46 miles in Oklahoma. Therefore, the trailhead on each end of the Ouachita National Recreational Trail is in different states. The starting trailhead for Arkansas is at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, while Oklahoma’s trailhead is at Talimena State Park.
The trail is well-maintained for the most part, although some areas have been noted to be overgrown during summer. If you are looking to hike the entire 224-mile route, the best time of the year is either in early spring or fall. The summer heat will make walking difficult during the hotter months, especially with the lack of water access throughout the trail. Streams tend to dry out from July to August, making it difficult to find reliable water sources.
Throughout the pathway, you will run into several other trails. Ouachita Trail will always have blue markings every 50 to 100 feet to indicate the path. The trail is very well-marked throughout, making it easy to follow. If you decide to hike the trail during hunting season, ensure everyone in your group wears hunter orange.
During the hike, you will experience scenic views, including pine and oak-covered mountains, valleys, and clear streams. With the trip on average taking 11-14 days, you will have enough time to see all the beautiful scenery the forest and woods offer.
Important Mile Markers
7.3 Miles: Bohannon Creek (water source)
8.0 Miles: Deadman’s Gap
13.4 Miles: Cedar Branch
23.7 Miles: Winding Stair Trailhead/Campground (Closed in winter)(no water)
29.9 Miles: Big Cedar Creek
36.7 Miles: Wilton Mountain; Campsites (no water)
39.2 Miles: Kiamichi River (water/campsites)
40.9 Miles: Kiamichi River Crossing (Use your best judgment when crossing water)
43.1 Miles: Final Kiamichi River Crossing (Fill up on water)
48.4 Miles: Microwave Tower (Scenic Outlook)
51.6 Miles: Queen Wilhelmina State Park Lodge (Restaurant and Rooms)
51.8 Miles: Lover’s Leap Overlook
58.5 Miles: Eagle Gap (water)
67.2 Miles: Waterfall (scenic)
94.5 Miles: Big Brushy Campground with Water
101.1 Miles: Fiddler’s Creek (Reliable Water)
105.6 Miles: Rainy Creek (Reliable Water)
116.7 Miles: Story Creek (Reliable Water)
122.6 Miles: Go Left to John Archer Trail Shelter
127.5 Miles: Bill Potter Trail Shelter (Steep Climbing coming back)
128.8 Miles: Irons Fork Creek (Water)
134.0 Miles: Big Branch Trail Shelter (Steep Climb coming back) Reliable Water)
143.2 Miles: Blue Mountain Shelter
158.4 Miles: Moonshine Shelter
163.9 Miles: Sugar Creek (Unreliable water source)
167.4 Miles: Oak Mountain Trail Shelter
170.6 Miles: Green Thumb Spring (Reliable water)
182.5 Miles: Brown Creek Trail Shelter
187.3 Miles: Lake Sylvia Campground
192.5 Miles: End of Trail in Ouachita National Forest
Important Information to Know Before You Go
Trail Rules:
- Horses, pack animals, and vehicles are not allowed on the trail.
- Camp must be set up 100 feet from the trail.
- Wash clothes and dishes 100 feet from trails, lakes, or streams.
- Dig a 6-8 inch hole at least 100 feet from the trail, water, or campsite to bury human waste.
- Bathing needs to be at least 100 feet from the lake or stream. This is to prevent water pollution from soap.
Backpacking Safety Tips
- Register with a park ranger so they don’t tow your car (think it’s abandoned)
- Let a friend or family know you are going on this trip in case you don’t return.
- Print any maps needed and bring a compass to incase your cell phone dies or you don’t get service.
- Bring a Mini Handheld GPS Satellite Messenger, allowing you to trigger an SOS message from anywhere globally.
- Bring plenty of water. Depending on the time of year you take this trip, there may be little water.
What to Bring on a Backpacking Trip:
- Headlamp & Flashlight
- Extra Batteries
- Whistle
- Navigation
- Portable Phone Charger
- Camera
- Mini Handheld GPS Satellite Messenger
- Knife
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Lots of Food
- Bug Spray
- Waterproof Matches
- Water Canteen
- Clothes
- Rain Poncho
- First-Aid Kit
- Sleeping Bag
- Tent
- Toilet Paper
- Water Filter
Important Information to Know Before You Go
About Author, Sara Elizabeth
Writer, Amora V Lifestyle
Co-Owner of AmoraVBoutique.com
Sara is a writer for Amora V Lifestyle and is Co-Owner of Amora V Boutique. Sara previously worked as a Marketing Manager and has her Master’s from Lindenwood University.
Sara studies everything of interest, from psychology, recipes, finances, mental health, and travel, thriving to find happiness and to live a good life.
When not learning, Sara loves all things outdoors, food, and hanging around great company. Furthermore, Sara loves spending time with family, who she is blessed to have in her life.
Note from the author: Through my articles, I hope to bring you joy and peace and that you enjoy it!
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this travel blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of any organizations mentioned or affiliated with. The information provided in this blog is accurate and up-to-date to the best of the author’s knowledge, but readers are advised to do their own research and confirm any information before making travel plans or decisions. The author is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by readers while traveling based on the information provided in this blog. Travel at your own risk and always prioritize your safety and well-being. Any reviews or comments written are the subjective opinion of an Amora V Lifestyle member and not Amora V Lifestyle. Amora V Lifestyle performs occasional checks on commentary left by users. It’s worth mentioning that we may also use comments in our articles. By posting a comment, you are giving us permission to use it in our content. Please check out Privacy Policy and Terms of Use for full disclosure. Information obtained from: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fsm9_039448.pdf and https://compulsivehiker.com/2014/11/30/ouachita-trail-ar-9-to-ar-7/
