from US Forest Service pamphlet TR-01
Trail Highlights:
This is the longest trail in the Ouachita National Forest spanning 192 miles across its entire length.
In the west, the trail begins at Talimena State Park on
Highway 271 near Talihina, Oklahoma.
The eastern boundary is south of Perryville, Arkansas on
Highway 9.
An additional 32 miles of trail, located on private and other
public lands, extends to Pinnacle Mountain State Park, 15
miles west of Little Rock, Arkansas.
Elevations range from 600 to 2,600 feet as the trail passes
through forested mountains, across sweeping valleys and
near clear-running streams.
Spur trails connect to various recreation areas and points
of interest. Numerous road crossings and access points
provide opportunities for point to point hikes of various
distances.
For more information, see detailed trail map TR-01DET
Other Attractions:
Recreation areas adjoining the trail include:
• Horsethief Springs Picnic Area
• Winding Stair Mountain Recreation Area
• Queen Wilhelmina State Park
• Big Brushy Recreation Area
• Iron Springs Recreation Area
• Lake Sylvia Recreation Area
Length: 192 miles.
Directions: There are many developed and undeveloped access points across the forest, identified on the detailed trail map (TR-01DET).
Trail Information: Unsurfaced. Water is scarce on many portions of the trail especially during dry periods. Treat all water before drinking.
Difficulty Level: Various.
Site amenities: Recreation areas usually include campgrounds, picnic areas, swimming, drinking water, restrooms, and other trails. Trail shelters are available for overnight use along segments between Highway 7 and 27.
Requirements: Pack it in; pack it out. Trail open to foot traffic only for 55 miles. 137 miles is now open to both mountain bikes and foot traffic.
Segments opened to mountain bikes are from the western boundary of the Ouachita National Forest in Oklahoma to the Big Cedar trailhead
on Highway 259, and from the Talimena Scenic Drive east of Queen Wilhelmina State Park to trailhead on Highway 7, north of Jessieville,
Arkansas.
Horses, pack animals, and vehicles are prohibited. Portions of the trail that cross wilderness areas have special qualities and restrictions. To preserve the trail’s beauty, please camp at least 100 feet from the trail.
Seasons of use: Open year-round. Weather is very pleasant from autumn through spring.