Featured Content
Thru-Hiker's Guide to America
Excerpted from Thru Hiker's Guide to America by E. Schlimmer
LOW FLYING PLANES
The peak of Rich Mountain has a nice view, probably less appreciated by those aboard any of the fifty planes that have crashed into this mountain or the immediate area. Located on the Arkansas-Oklahoma line, this 2,600-footer is the highest peak in the Ouachita Mountains and the highest point on the Ouachita Trail.
HALFWAY THERE
Located near the OTs midpoint is Big Brushy Campground, an overnight area thats rarely used (its near a road). There are a half dozen hiking trails that originate from this spot and some tie into the OT to make loop hikes. On this section of the OT theres enough water in some streams to take a dip.
NOT SO FLAT
Despite its name, the Flatside Wilderness Area has many steep climbs up pinnacles and beautiful ridgelines. This area, on the trails eastern section, provides nice views.
THIS IS NOT A MIRAGE
Near Pinnacle Mountain State Park, on the extreme east end of the OT, lies Lake Maumelle. The OT travels above the lakes north shore. There are many water sources on this section and short ups and downs, though overall the section is fairly easy to traverse.
Article © McGraw-Hill. All rights reserved.
Details mentioned in this article were accurate at the time of publication
