Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary writes about Hunt's Loop Trail.
Last week, I covered the Friendship Trail, a quaint and short jaunt along a paved, level path located at the U.S. Forest Service Visitor Center just north of the Jessieville School District campus. Although this particular walk has something to offer for practically anybody with a passion for the outdoors, there are those who are more into the physical fitness end of things and enjoy straying a little deeper into the forest.
That in mind, I opted to write about yet another trail, located just a few more miles up the highway. The loop consists of 4.3 miles of designated route before tying back into itself at the Iron Springs Recreation Area. The path also runs within a stone's throw of the Highway 7 north access point to the Ouachita National Trail system, lending to an option of actually shortening the walk, if preferred.
The path provides hikers with a variety of terrain and difficulty levels. It's a great destination for those who are up for one steep climb, yet is not so difficult that practically anybody who is remotely fit can easily experience the entire walk.
Beginning at Iron Springs Recreation Area, the path immediately heads upstream to an impressive bridge spanning the Middle Fork of the Saline River. Although the creek is fairly small, the view up and down the drainage from the structure is impressive. In fact, this would be a great location where one might consider returning during the early fall, as the foliage drooping over the stream will likely prove vibrant.
After crossing the bridge, the trail takes a right and runs alongside a water source that is somewhat rich in history. According to interpretive signs posted at the springs, these waters were once considered to have medicinal purposes.
This little spot is well worth a stop. While reading the information posted on the sign, I always try to paint a picture of people traveling great distances to gather water, with high hopes of it healing their ailments. Although I don't suppose the water has any medical values, it is healing to the mind to simply sit back and take in the surroundings.
Although once ingested by folks, I wouldn't suggest drinking from the spring, as I'm not certain it has been tested.
From the spring, the trail makes a left and embarks upon the previously mentioned ascent. The hillside is very steep. However, the trail is not quite as treacherous as one might suspect, as it switches back and forth up the mountainside. But one's heart rate will certainly increase noticeably before reaching the ridgetop.
I noticed several spots along this section of trail during my most recent hike where the hillside had eroded as a result of people straying from the designated path and taking shortcuts between switchbacks. I also find these short routes tempting. However, we should all remain on the designated paths to ensure the habitat remains as intact as possible.
Once finally reaching the top of the ridge, 0.7 miles into the walk, the trail makes its way to the most impressive view throughout the entire journey. A spectacular perspective of the valleys and distant mountains awaits at the Short Mountain Vista.
The view from the lookout is impressive during any time of the day. But I have bit the bullet and embarked upon this section of the hike before daylight during past excursions. And although traversing the hillside during before light is somewhat of a pain, the opportunity to experience the beginning of a new day from this point is well worth the effort.
I'm glad to announce that the most difficult section of the trail is now history. Hopefully, a stop at the vista has allowed one's heart rate to slow back to a normal pace and their and their gasping for air has subsided. Yep, it's time to enjoy the remainder of the trail.
From the vista, the path makes its way across the ridgetop for a distance, following a dim road. Although not necessarily the most scenic section of the route, I think it might be one of my favorites, and for good reason.
Having previously hiked the trail during the summer months, we were greeted by a huge stand of woodland sunflowers. A forest floor carpeted with vibrant yellow flowers was a sight to see.
I have also noticed quite a bit of bear sign in this area during recent excursions, and have watched as deer quickly fled to safety on a couple of occasions. And, of course, I can't leave out the fact that this also appears to be good snake habitat. Although I have yet to see one, I suspect a few timber rattlers might frequent this area.
Hunts Loop Trail eventually intersects with the Ouachita National Trail 1.9 miles into the journey. At this point, those wishing to return to their rig should turn right, but those interested in making a night of it might turn left and embark upon a short hike (about a mile) to Moonshine Shelter, which is located just off the main trail.
After the right turn, the trail meanders through the woods, heading predominantly downhill and eventually makes its way within a few feet of a small pond. This is also a great spot where one can stop and do a little exploring.
I have noticed goldfish swimming within the perimeters of the pond during previous excursions. And, of course, a few reptiles and amphibians are likely to be utilizing the constant source of water, as well.
From the pond, the trail continues downhill for a short distance to the Highway 7 north trailhead, at about 3 miles into the walk. The path leading back to Iron Springs, however, turns right at the registration box and begins paralleling the highway.
The path does a little up and downing along this section, and makes its way to an intersection at 3.1 miles. The trail to the left is a continuation of the Ouachita Trail. That being said, take the right-hand path to continue in the direction of the recreation area.
The trail levels and eventually veers away from the highway, before crossing a small bridge spanning a creek. This area is also abundant with wildflowers of various species.
The path meanders within feet of the spring, soon thereafter, deeming the walk all but over.
Although the sultry days of summer near, there is still ample time to get out and enjoy a hike before the temperatures grow miserable. That in mind, those in for a nice trek through the Ouachitas might consider a journey along Hunt's Loop Trail.
To get to the Iron Springs Recreation Area access to the trail, travel Highway 7 for 5 miles north of Jessieville, and the destination will be located on the left.
Local on 05/27/2016