Shake Up Your Routine With A Hike Along Earthquake Ridge In Arkansas
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Carol Ann Carson
Author
The largest and oldest national forest in the South is home to so many gems – it’s easy to overlook a few! One underrated trail you may have driven by and missed is the Earthquake Ridge Trail. This trail near Mena is great for cyclists or hikers. Whichever route you take, Earthquake Ridge Trail will keep you moving.
The visitor center at the east end of the drive is also the starting point for a different (yet equally gorgeous) journey, the Earthquake Ridge Trail. This is one of the oldest trails in Arkansas as well!
The hike is a series of loops that can easily be taken together for a full afternoon of wandering. The Earthquake Ridge alone is 2.4-miles long but most that traverse the area add in the supplemental loops for a full 4.4 miles. The paths are all well marked for whichever loop(s) you choose. Here's the visitor center's map of the area.
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The moderate trail is a gorgeous forested path for hikers as well as a twisty singletrack for bikers. Cyclists can also have the pleasure of taking Earthquake Ridge and Rich Mountain Trail to reach the IMBA Epic Ouachita National Recreation Trail nearby.
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The trail is predominately a relaxing trek underneath the Ouachita canopy but there are a few open vistas along the ridge. The namesake of trail is nearby too, it's a rock formation with what looks like an earthquake-induced crack running through it.
The trail has perks in any season but we're particularly fond of fall. Paired with the Talimena Scenic Drive, this hike is a stunning way to enjoy the season changes in Arkansas.
Before you take that first step be sure to research the trail further. Use this GPS-friendly map for your trip.
Before you take that first step be sure to research the trail further. Use this GPS-friendly map for your trip.
Have you peddled or paced the Earthquake Ridge? We’d love to hear about your trek in the comments below and see your trail photos in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers!
Don’t forget to keep driving after your hike to enjoy one of the prettiest scenic routes in Arkansas.
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Featured Addresses
906 AR-88, Mena, AR 71953, USA