The Ouachita National Recreation Trail, spanning 223 miles, winds its way through the picturesque Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas and Oklahoma. Familiarly referred to as the “Ouachita Trail,” this renowned trail begins at Talimena State Park in Oklahoma, traverses Queen Wilhelmina State Park, and concludes near Little Rock, Arkansas, at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. A cherished outdoor asset, the trail attracts hikers, backpackers, hunters, and mountain bikers alike. It offers a serene escape, characterized by its non-motorized single-track path accessible solely to foot traffic, with some sections open to mountain bicycles.
Managed by the US Forest Service, the Ouachita Trail primarily traverses the expanse of the Ouachita National Forest, meandering through the Flatside Wilderness, the Upper Kiamichi Wilderness, and various wildlife management areas. Along the trail, shelters provide overnight camping opportunities for weary adventurers.
The Ouachita Trail Guide by Tim Ernst serves as the go-to resource for comprehensive information and maps detailing the trail’s route. Available at select Arkansas State Parks, Ouachita National Forest Ranger Stations, and online through the publisher’s store at TimErnst.com, the guidebook ensures hikers are well-prepared for their journey. Members of the Friends of the Ouachita Trail (FoOT) organization are eligible for discounts when purchasing the guidebook directly from the publisher.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, segments spanning miles 0 to 30.5 and 54 to 160 of the trail are open for exploration. Ranging from easy to highly challenging terrain, these sections offer exhilarating rides for cyclists of varying skill levels. Bikearkansas.com provides valuable information and recommendations for suitable rides, while FoOT’s Trail Conditions page offers regular updates to assist trail users.
To aid in navigation, the US Forest Service has created two maps of the Ouachita Trail, which are available for reference. While these maps encompass the majority of the trail, it’s important to note that they exclude the easternmost 30 miles of the trail not situated on USFS land.
Whether embarking on a day hike, a multi-day backpacking excursion, or an adrenaline-fueled mountain biking adventure, the Ouachita Trail promises awe-inspiring vistas and unforgettable outdoor experiences for all who traverse its scenic pathways.