Black Fork Mountain in the Ouachitas of Arkansas offers a stunning view as a reward for a challenging hike
Black Fork Mountain is part of the Ouachita Mountains and straddles the Arkansas-Oklahoma border. Rising to an elevation of about 2,762 feet, Black Fork Mountain is known for its rugged terrain, dense forests, and unique geological formations.
Hiking up Black Fork Mountain on the Black Fork Mountain Trail is challenging and rewarding. The trail, approximately 12 miles round trip, is known for its rugged terrain, demanding a good level of fitness and preparedness, along with a lot of dense overgrowth on the trail, including dense briars.
The Black Fork Mountain Trail begins at the Black Fork Mountain Wilderness trailhead off Highway 270. The trail follows the Ouachita Trail approximately 1 mile to a trail junction where the Ouachita Trail runs right (and descends) while the Black Fork Mountain Trail turns left and ascends. From there, the trail passes the Black Fork Mountain Shelter and then ascends through forests of oak, pine, and hickory, offering occasional scenic vistas. The path is marked by rocky outcrops and a variety of native flora and fauna. As you get higher, you'll cross in front of a large rock glacier, one of the mountain's unique geological features. The Black Fork Mountain Trail culminates at the summit of Black Fork Mountain, providing panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains and the surrounding valleys. You'll return back to the Black Fork Mountain Wilderness trailhead the way that you came.
This is a challenging and difficult hike with very rough terrain, high mileage, and very few water sources along the way. You'll hike 12 miles and climb more than 2,200 feet along the way.
Important Hiking Considerations:
Hiking up Black Fork Mountain on the Black Fork Mountain Trail is challenging and rewarding. The trail, approximately 12 miles round trip, is known for its rugged terrain, demanding a good level of fitness and preparedness, along with a lot of dense overgrowth on the trail, including dense briars.
The Black Fork Mountain Trail begins at the Black Fork Mountain Wilderness trailhead off Highway 270. The trail follows the Ouachita Trail approximately 1 mile to a trail junction where the Ouachita Trail runs right (and descends) while the Black Fork Mountain Trail turns left and ascends. From there, the trail passes the Black Fork Mountain Shelter and then ascends through forests of oak, pine, and hickory, offering occasional scenic vistas. The path is marked by rocky outcrops and a variety of native flora and fauna. As you get higher, you'll cross in front of a large rock glacier, one of the mountain's unique geological features. The Black Fork Mountain Trail culminates at the summit of Black Fork Mountain, providing panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains and the surrounding valleys. You'll return back to the Black Fork Mountain Wilderness trailhead the way that you came.
This is a challenging and difficult hike with very rough terrain, high mileage, and very few water sources along the way. You'll hike 12 miles and climb more than 2,200 feet along the way.
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Advice and Recommended Gear:
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Gear we used on this hike:
- Goodr Sunglasses
- Osprey Talon 22 Pack
- REI Flash Air 50 Pack
- Gossamer Gear Shoulder Strap Pockets
- Altra Lone Peak Shoes
- Deliberate Life Designs Sandals
- Darn Tough Midweight Hiking Socks
- REI Traverse Trekking Poles
- Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles
- Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie
- Eddie Bauer HYOH T-Shirt
- EMS Techwick Essentials Sleeveless Tee
- Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts
- Nalgene 32-ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottles
- Energizer LED Headlamp
- NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad
- Garmin Instinct Watch
- Garmin inReach Plus GPS
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- Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions. Weather can be unpredictable, so bring appropriate clothing and gear.
- Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing. It's also a good idea to hike with a friend or let someone know about your hiking plans.
- Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.
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