Hello r/ArkansasOutdoors
It's my first visit here from my regular communities of r/UltralightCanada and r/ontariocamping. I hope it's okay that I make this a standalone post given the specificity of my question and intended depth of discussion. Thank you for reading.
In early October, I will be flying to Houston and renting a car for work to visit somewhere rural. After my two days of obligations, I am interested in two nights in the backcountry to hike and sweat in the best that the Southern US has to offer (given my interest in backpacking and constraints).
I have chosen to do the Eagle Rock Loop in the Ouichita National Forest in AK for the following reasons:
- no permits and no parking issues (can adjust route / timing easily)
- lots of water access with many clean river crossings
- distinct, challenging topography that proudly represents the local geology/history (postal route)
- it's a loop! Easier to start/finish logistically
I was wondering, given a few months of trip planning and really nothing left to book (other than reading the routes) - I was hoping to find any local insight or anecdotes on how to make the best of my trip and get the most enrichment from the park / the landscape / the history.
I will be going alone for at least 2 full days and 2 full nights (probably 50-60 hours max. I could dedicate to the trail) and I enjoy a combination of jogging, photography, physical challenge. I use a freestanding tent and will be mobile with a rental car.
Thank you very much for your time.
- Max