It has been awhile … I was thinking about doing the hike up Black Fork Mtn (north of Mena, AR). I vaguely recall that there is a “shortcut,“ but I don‘t recall exactly …
My memory tells me that you can park at Rich Mtn store, cross the hwy and train tracks, then hike a short distance parallel to the train tracks … and then head UP the Mtn on a old road bed.
My memory also tells me that I am incredibly good looking and amazingly strong … so … uhhh … Let’s just call it a bit suspect.
Does anyone happen to recall anything about this shortcut? Or maybe I just made it up??
it’s maybe a mile or so to the shelter and probably 5 all the way to the end.
Then turn around and hike out.
There‘s a bit of uphill, but it’s not too bad. Lots of vistas and rock formations. On top of Black Mtn, the trail gets really overgrown w briars.
All in one day would be a fair slog, but it is fairly scenic no matter how far you go.
The mule trail cuts off about 2 miles or so (I think).
Bonus - stop in at the Rich Mtn Store and ask Steve about all the plane crash sites on Black Fork Mtn.