Little Missouri area offers some of most amazing scenery in state
Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary writes about the upper Little Missouri River.
I’ve covered Lake Greeson and the section of the Little Missouri River below the dam during the past couple of weeks. That in mind, I decided to dedicate this week’s article to yet another section of the river.
Although the destinations I have already covered are scenic, the upper portion of the mountain-fed waterway is awe inspiring. In fact, I can’t think of another location in western Arkansas that boasts a more beautiful setting than the stretch of water beginning at the Little Missouri Falls and ending at Camp Albert Pike. In fact, the drive to these locations is equally impressive and will lend to many opportunities to pull to the roadside and enjoy the sheer beauty.
We’ll begin with Camp Albert Pike. This location was once a booming destination. However, many will likely recall a catastrophe that occurred along this particular section of the Little Missouri several years ago, when a number of people tragically lost their lives to a flash flood.
I’ll be the first to admit a sense of immediate sadness upon every arrival to this location following that dreadful night. But I am still quick to stop at Albert Pike anytime I’m in the area. And the reasons are twofold. First and foremost, this section of the river lends to eye-catching beauty, as reflections of the trees alongside the shore gleam on the water’s surface and a steep and jagged substrate overlook the river on the opposing shoreline.
And now for the second reason I always stop at this location. Of course, the fact that many innocent people met their demise along this section of the river leaves me heavy-hearted. But I find it important to occasionally be reminded that anytime we enter the outdoors, we are entering an uncontrolled environment where there are inherent risks.
Camp Albert Pike is easily accessed. Simply follow Highway 70 west past Glenwood and take a right onto Highway 84 at the Salem Community. Follow 84 for about 13 miles and take a right onto Highway 369 at Athens and follow the highway 6 miles to the recreation area.
The next destination I will cover is only accessible by foot. However, those who are up for walking a couple of miles in and a couple more back to the vehicle should certainly consider a trek into the Winding Stairs section of the river.
Those wishing to embark upon this part of the journey should take a left onto Forest Road 106 at Camp Albert Pike. The road immediately crosses the river, lending to a beautiful scene upstream.
The road then winds over the mountain prior to making a descent to a low-lying area, where the trailhead will be located on the left-hand side of the road.
From the trailhead, the path runs alongside and eventually crosses Blaylock Creek and meanders through a flat for a short distance prior to making the only noticeable ascent throughout the entire walk.
The trail eventually runs alongside a bench, giving a great perspective of the river as it winds just below the designated path. The path eases downhill soon thereafter and eventually crosses the Little Missouri.
This might be a good time to suggest carrying along a pair of water shoes. However, one might also consider making the crossing in their bare feet. But regardless of how one chooses to cross, be aware that the substrate is very rocky and can prove slick.
The water will not likely be much deeper than one’s knees. But I would strongly suggest using a staff while traversing the river to ensure more stability.
So why would someone want to trek across a cold mountain-fed river, right? Well, let me tell you, it won’t take long to figure out that the inconvenience was well worth the effort. In fact, what I consider the most scenic spot throughout the entire Ouachita Mountain region will soon come into view.
The trail runs within feet of where the river cuts its way through huge boulders and collides with sheer rock formations. I have backpacked to this particular section of the waterway many times throughout the years, as there is more than enough to keep the outdoor lover occupied for a couple of days.
Of course, I never fail to carry along a rod and reel, as these waters are bountiful with smallmouth bass. And I can’t think of a better setting to capture photos during the early morning and late evening hours.
Those who are in for a little bushwhacking might also find this location of interest, as several small caves are located on the hillside on the left-hand side of the trail and on the hillsides containing a small branch feeding into this particular section of the river.
Now back to the vehicle, and let’s embark upon a short drive a little deeper into the forest and to the Little Missouri Falls. Simple follow Forest Road 106 back to Camp Albert Pike and make a left. Follow the main forest road for a distance and eventually turn left onto Forest Road 43. Remain on and enjoy the scenery along Forest Road 43 for a distance until reaching and taking yet another left onto Forest Road 25. Follow the dirt road for a short distance and take another left at the Little Missouri Falls sign and follow the road to the parking lot of the day-use area.
This would prove a great location where one might plan a picnic, as there are several picnic tables at the facility. The restrooms might also prove a welcomed sight, as well.
From the recreation area, the section of the Little Missouri Trail leading to the water spectacle crosses an impressive bridge spanning the river and makes a slight ascent along a paved path. The route then heads slightly downhill and meanders within sight of the falls soon thereafter.
Little Missouri Falls is likely one of the most popular spots along the river, and for good reason. The succession of waterfalls is easily accessible and provides onlookers with a beautiful scene.
Of course, those visiting this particular destination within the next week or so will have hopes of seeing a vibrant background of fall foliage. But I am most impressed with this location during the brunt of spring when an array of wildflowers makes a colorful showing along the trail’s edge.
Even those who miss the peak of fall foliage will find the falls well worth seeking out, as they will have an opportunity to see the cool, mountain-fed river pour over sheer rocks into a large pool below. In fact, I would suspect the view will be most open after the leaves have fallen.
All of the above locations are among my favorites. Granted the upcoming winter temperatures will prove hindering to some and the present deer season will cause others to choose where they go carefully. But those who don a blaze orange cap and vest and carry along some sleeves will likely find a journey to the upper section of the Little Missouri River an enjoyable outing, indeed.