As residents of the Twin Lakes Area begin to emerge from the confines of their homes while Gov. Asa Hutchinson has begun to roll back restrictions caused by COVID-19, social distancing remains a key part of life to prevent a reemergence of the outbreak.
While most entertainment venues remain closed, there is one place where members of the public can get out and enjoy themselves, stretch their legs and enjoy the serenity of Arkansas–the outdoors.
Trails provide the perfect opportunity for a getaway. While trails in the Buffalo River National Park remain closed, there are great venues for hiking and biking within minutes of Mountain Home.
David’s Trail on Norfork Lake runs from Robinson Point all the way through Panther Bay, Bidwell Point and ends near Gamaliel. Constructed on United States Corps of Engineers property, the trail is open, while the park and campground are closed, according to Mark Case, Chief Ranger of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Mountain Home Project office.
Map: David’s Trail
Created in the memory of late Mountain Home resident David Floyd, the trail was opened in 2007 and has been constantly improved upon by a dedicated group of volunteers. It contains up to 50 miles of trails and has sections for beginners and experts.
Another trail located on Corps’ property is the Pigeon Creek Trail system, located at Pigeon Creek Park on State Highway 201 North.
Map: Pigeon Creek Trail System
Primarily known for biking, the Pigeon Creek trail is also great for hiking with beginner and moderate-rated trails. A partnership between the Twin Lakes Bicycle Club and the Mountain Home Project Office resulted in the development of the trail, which covers approximately 12 miles.
David’s Trail is part of the Ozarks Highland Trail System, with plans to eventually construct a route from Fort Smith to St. Louis. Most of this system is on Corps land, meaning the trails are still accessible. The system also contains the Sylamore Trail in southern Baxter County, near Lone Rock.
Some of the Ozark Highland Trail System runs through the Buffalo National Park, which remains closed at the order of the United States Department of the Interior. The park is off limits to all visitors, including the popular Ponca and Boxley Valley areas.
One of the newest trails in the area is the Rim Shoals Trail, created by a partnership between Trout Unlimited and the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. The trail runs along the White River and creates a safe path to the river for visitors that previously walked down dangerous railroad tracks. The trail begins at the Rim Shoals walk-in access and extends three-quarters of a mile.
Any potential anglers should remember that section of the White River is catch-and-release only.
Governor Hutchinson’s announcement earlier in the week allowing camping in some Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism facilities can resume this weekend has many that love the outdoors ready to go.
But things won’t be as simple as pitching a tent. The reopening of camping comes with two caveats: campers must use private recreational vehicles with self-contained bathroom facilities; and camping will be only for Arkansas residents.
Some of the most popular trails in state parks remain closed, such as Pinnacle Mountain, Devil’s Den and Petit Jean state parks. You can find the latest updates at arkansasstateparks.com/covid-19-update or https://www.swl.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Campground-Closure-Detail/
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI