Ouachita National Forest

Trail Highlights: Located in the Beech Creek National Scenic and Botanical Areas, the trails follow the headwaters of Beech Creek and traverse the mountains surrounding the creek. American Beech trees and other unique plants are common in the creek bottom.

The Beech Creek Trail sometimes follows at the creek edge or in the fertile ground a few hundred feet away. It is a fairly easy hike for 2.5 miles from the east end of Forest Road K68A to the "Cascades" with small waterfalls and pools.

The Turkey Snout Loop follows a small tributary and crosses near the beginning of Beech Creek. The Walnut Mountain and Blue Bouncer Loops are best suited to experienced backpackers. The terrain is rugged with limited water sources on the mountains.

Surrounding Areas: Developed campsites with drinking water and restrooms are available at Billy Creek and Winding Stair Mountain Recreation Areas. Enjoy the grand vistas along the 54-mile Talimena Scenic Byway. Nearby hiking and horseback trails include Winding Stair Equestrian Trails, Billy Creek, Horsethief Spring Trails and the Ouachita National Recreation Trail.

Length: Various loops totaling 32.5 miles.

Directions: From Oklahoma State Highway 63 take Forest Road 6026 south for miles, then either Forest Road K68A or 6025 for one mile to trailhead parking. Caution: Roads are gravel and become rough and muddy after rains.

Trail Information: The trail is unsurfaced. Travel time is one mile per hour. Four trails allow hikers to plan trips with varying lengths. The trail is marked with white rectangles on trees with directional signs at most junctions.

Site Amenities: No campsites, drinking water or restrooms.

Difficulty Level: Beech Creek - more difficult. Turkey Snout - more difficult. Walnut Mountain - more to most difficult . Blue Bouncer - more to most difficult.

Difficulty Level: Be careful when crossing streams. Rocks can be slick and high water is dangerous after rainstorms. No foot bridges. Treat all stream water before drinking.

Recommended Season: Spring, summer, fall.

Restrictions: Although not prohibited, mountain bikers would find the trails to be narrow. Trails are closed to motorized use and to pack or saddle stock. The Botanical Area is closed to all motorized vehicles and horses.