It has been awhile … I was thinking about doing the hike up Black Fork Mtn (north of Mena, AR). I vaguely recall that there is a “shortcut,“ but I don‘t recall exactly …
My memory tells me that you can park at Rich Mtn store, cross the hwy and train tracks, then hike a short distance parallel to the train tracks … and then head UP the Mtn on a old road bed.
My memory also tells me that I am incredibly good looking and amazingly strong … so … uhhh … Let’s just call it a bit suspect.
Does anyone happen to recall anything about this shortcut? Or maybe I just made it up??
it’s maybe a mile or so to the shelter and probably 5 all the way to the end.
Then turn around and hike out.
There‘s a bit of uphill, but it’s not too bad. Lots of vistas and rock formations. On top of Black Mtn, the trail gets really overgrown w briars.
All in one day would be a fair slog, but it is fairly scenic no matter how far you go.
The mule trail cuts off about 2 miles or so (I think).
Bonus - stop in at the Rich Mtn Store and ask Steve about all the plane crash sites on Black Fork Mtn.
My memory wasn’t exactly right, but it was close. The “mule trail” is still there, but some clear cutting and private property make it a little more challenging to find.
i opted to hike from the regular trail head (shared by the Ouachita Trail), but did not go all the way up.
By the way, there is a new trail shelter near where the Black Fork and Ouachita trail separate. Definitely a high class affair.