Hiking & Walking Trails

Ozark National Forest
Some 130,000 acres of hardwood forests, crystal clear streams, two adjoining rivers, limestone bluffs, and grassy meadows make up the Sylamore District of the Ozark – St. Francis National Forest. The most well know attraction of this area is the Blanchard Springs Caverns, a living cave open year around and run by the US Forest Service. Knowledgeable guides conduct daily tours through the caverns and outdoor theatre programs are conducted during the season.

Forest Campgrounds
The U.S. Forest Service has developed campgrounds at scenic points in these woodlands. Most of these campgrounds are located in ruggedly beautiful mountainous terrain, and are designed to blend into the landscape to preserve the forest atmosphere. Campsites are available at Gunner Pool, Barkshed, and Blanchard Springs. Services vary at these scenic campgrounds from primitive sites with vault toilets and no showers to developed sites with full bath houses and picnic pavilions.

Hiking Trails
Hiking enthusiasts will find trails designed for both day and overnight hikes. The North Sylamore Trail is named for the scenic North Sylamore Creek which flows alongside the trail. Waterfalls at Slick Rock Hollows, fern beds moistened by Ozark springs, and numerous scenic bluffs are a few features of the trail. The trail follows the north fork of the Sylamore Creek, providing one of the most scenic trails in the region. Camping is open, but there are developed camping areas at Gunner Pool and Blanchard Springs Recreation Area. The creek provides excellent opportunities for swimming, especially in hot weather when the spring-fed creek water remains cold.

The Ozark Highlands Trail Extension
(also known as the Sylamore Section)
This new trail section is a 31 mile long stretch of the Ozark Highlands Trail that travels along and near Push Mountain Road (Hwy. 341), north of Mountain View. The main section of the Ozark Highlands Trail is 165 miles long from Lake Fort Smith State Park (currently closed) to the Woolum Access on the Buffalo National River. This scenic trail is maintained exclusively by volunteers and offers opportunities to hike, camp, fish, see wildlife and just enjoy the beauty of the forest and being away from the hustle of modern living.
Click here to visit the Hike Arkansas website.

Horseback Riding
Equestrian trails and guided horseback riding facilities are available in the Ozark National Forest to riders of all skill levels. There are miles of scenic horseback trails that follow the North Sylamore Creek Trail and work back to the White River.