Eagle Rock Loop, Ouachita National Forest Travel Guide

4.8 (80)

Conquer Arkansas's most challenging loop trail: 26.8 miles of Ouachita Mountain beauty and rugged wilderness.

The Eagle Rock Loop in Arkansas's Ouachita National Forest is a 26.8-mile trail renowned as the state's longest and most challenging loop. Combining the Little Missouri, Athens-Big Fork, and Viles Branch trails, it offers a diverse landscape of river valleys, mountain vistas, and demanding climbs.

A brief summary to Eagle Rock Loop

Langley, Arkansas, 71952, US
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Eagle Rock Loop.

Check the USGS water gauge at Langley; avoid river crossings if it reads above 4.5 feet.
Wear trail running shoes instead of hiking boots to handle the numerous water crossings.
Bring trekking poles for stability during river crossings and steep inclines.
Be prepared for ticks, chiggers, and mosquitoes, especially in warmer months.
Camp at Eagle Rock Vista for scenic views, but carry water uphill.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Dragover Recreation Area

Dragons Eye

Big Brushy Recreation Site

Hickory Nut Mountain Vista

Joplin Use Area

Explore Eagle Rock Loop on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Eagle Rock Loop, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The Eagle Rock Loop has multiple trailheads, including Winding Stairs, Little Missouri Falls, and Athens-Big Fork. From Mena, Arkansas, drive east on Highway 246. Depending on your chosen trailhead, continue onto Forest Road 106 or 25. Note that some roads may be unpaved. Parking is available at each trailhead, though it can be limited. Be aware that overnight parking and camping are prohibited at Albert Pike Recreation Area.
Shuttle

For those needing transportation to or from the trailheads, shuttle services are available from various outfitters in the region. These services can provide transport from airports, bus stations, or other trailheads. Contact services like Mike and Lynn in Heavener, OK, or Bluebell Café in Story, AR, for scheduling and pricing. Costs vary depending on distance and group size; contact the shuttle service for an estimate.

Discover more about Eagle Rock Loop

The Eagle Rock Loop, nestled in the Ouachita National Forest in southwest Arkansas, is a backpacking adventure that tests even seasoned hikers. This 26.8-mile loop is formed by the Little Missouri, Athens-Big Fork, and Viles Branch trails, showcasing the region's diverse beauty.The trail's history is interwoven with the area's past, following old postal routes and wagon roads. Today, hikers can experience the solitude and challenge of the Ouachita Mountains, with numerous water crossings and ascents over nine mountains. The varying difficulty, ranging from easy to most difficult, ensures an engaging experience.Be prepared for potentially waist-deep water crossings, especially after rainfall, and steep climbs along the Athens-Big Fork section. The U.S. Forest Service emphasizes the loop's difficulty, noting the significant vertical activity and tricky creek crossings. However, the stunning scenery, including waterfalls and bluffs, makes the effort worthwhile. Camping is allowed along the trail, except in the Albert Pike Recreation Area and parking areas.