Oklahoma–Arkansas State Line

The Ouachita National Recreation Trail offers a rugged, immersive hiking experience through the Ouachita Mountains, characterized by dense pine and oak forests, sharp ridges, and clear streams. You'll traverse diverse natural features, from picturesque rock outcroppings to expansive views from peaks like Rich Mountain, often spotting white-tailed deer and various bird species. This difficult route is a true wilderness escape, providing a sense of solitude rarely found on other long-distance trails.

When planning your visit, be aware that the 66.6-mile (107.2 km) trail, with its 7457 feet (2273 metres) of elevation gain and estimated 30 hours and 28 minutes duration, is best tackled in spring or fall to avoid the hot, humid, and buggy summers. Water sources can be unreliable, so plan accordingly. Access points like Talimena State Park in Oklahoma and Pinnacle Mountain State Park in Arkansas serve as key Ouachita National Recreation Trail parking areas.

What sets the Ouachita National Recreation Trail apart is its remarkable sense of quiet immersion in the wilderness, supported by well-marked blue blazes and strategically placed shelters every 8-10 miles. Beyond its natural beauty, the trail holds historical significance, incorporating sections of old military roads and Civilian Conservation Corps structures. While primarily for hikers, approximately 140 miles of the trail are also open to mountain biking, offering another way to experience this unique landscape.