We do enjoy short and sweet hikes but sometimes taking the time to tread along a remote trail is the perfect way to spend the day. One hike that is well worth the effort is hidden away in the Ouachita National Forest. Tackling this trail will lead you to not one but eight different mountains. Let’s pack the hiking poles and take on this extraordinary adventure.

If you’re more of a park-and-we’re-here type of hiker, don’t hesitate to try these low-key trails instead. Or, if you’d rather big the kids along too, try these family-friendly hikes.

Although this hike isn't for everyone, the Athens-Big Fork Trail is quite the rewarding challenge.
Alltrails/William User
The out-and-back trail is 17.8-miles long. You'll need to allot about five to eight hours to traverse the whole trail. If 17.8-miles sounds too daunting you can certainly shorten the trail if need be. For directions to the trail, use this map. Here's a handy pamphlet from the USDA about navigating the trail.
The trail wasn't always meant for recreation.
Flickr/Granger Meador
This path from Athens to Big Fork was originally a mail route used in the late 1800s. This does mean the trail has few switchbacks but the incline is still strenuous.

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The Athens-Big Fork Trail takes you through the mountains...
Flickr/Granger Meador
It's one of the only trails in the Ouachitas that runs north to south as opposed the typical east to west. The untouched forest will make you feel like the only person in the world.
...eight mountains to be exact!
AllTrails/Alex Beattie
You'll conquer the Missouri, Hurricane Knob, McKinley, Brier Creek, Leader, Brushheap, Brushy, and Big Tom Mountain. There's no shortage of sweeping overlooks along this trail.
The only thing better than the amazing views along the Athens-Big Fork are memories you'll make along the way.
Flickr/Richard May
Enjoy a freeing break from the 9 - 5 to reset in nature. If a normal hike's pace isn't enough of an adventure, you can take on the trail's fun run. For more information about the marathon, visit this site.

Have you taken on the Athens-Big Fork Trail before? Are you excited for the challenge? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

For a bit of shorter trek, try this trail that leads to a turquoise waterfall.

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