Backpacking recommendations

[wgonfan]

I know some of you guys do or have done some overnight backpacking in AR before so even though this is a paddling forum I figured I'd get better results here than on a random backpacking forum....

I'm looking at doing our first over night backpacking trip in late March. It will be myself, my brother & our two boys who are 13. It will be a two night, 3 day trip & I'm looking at keeping the hiking under 4 hours each day. We live in texarkana and would like to keep the drive time under 3.5hrs give or take a half. I'm considering something either in ONF in or around mt magazine, nebo & petit jean. The alberts pike area is an options also. I was wondering if any one could recommend a trail or area. We would like to be able to set up camp either near a body of water of on a bluff/vista.

Suggestions?

[Clif]

WANNA TRY THIS??

lots of good trail info over there. Must sign up to take part due to a recent major spam outbreak. Some are ultralight nuts but lots of good knowledge when they get to answering you and already in some of the posts.

Packs like boats are extremely varied and a matter of personal prefs. Trying some on is almost a must. Go see Jeremy at O3....aka Ouachita Outdoor Outfitters, would be another option

[wgonfan]

Thanks for the reply. I had seen that forum & thought it is was old or broken since I didn't see the forums list or anything. i'll register up & post this over there.

I already have packs & most gear, just need a suitable place to go.

[Owl]

For trails in your area I'd recommend getting Tim Ernst's "Ouachita Trail Guide" and "Arkansas Hiking Trails" books and reading about/choosing a trail based on that information as well as the advice of others. The books are available from many book and outdoor stores in Arkansas as well as online and from Tim directly.

http://www.timernst.com/allproducts.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Dr. Steve Yaney]

Cossatot River Corridor trail (14 miles?) is a good option as is the ouachita national recreation trail (over 200 miles of trail options) Both very close for you and some great scenery.

[wally]

From the parameters you set, I would recommend the Athens, Big Fork trail which is a loop trail starting around the Albert Pike Campground (you pick where you want to park and start) and is a good 2 night trip. Just google athens big fork and you can check it out.
wally