Slunger Creek Nature Trail an easy way to enjoy the outdoors
Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-record. Today, Deary takes readers on a journey to Slunger Creek Nature Trail.
I think it would be safe to say that hiking is an activity that has grown in popularity throughout the past few decades. And those of us calling Arkansas home are blessed in the sense that we are privy to our fair share of designated trails meandering through literally millions of acres of national forest lands.
Those of us who live in the Hot Springs area have access to hiking opportunities galore. Not only are we within minutes of the Ouachita National Trail System, which stretches in the neighborhood of 235 miles, but we’re also close to the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail. And let’s not forget that several miles of designated paths meander through the National Park Service land.
We also have a couple of state parks, right here in our backyards, both of which sport their own trail systems. The designated paths meandering through these state-owned and operated properties see their fair share of pressure, and rightfully so. In fact, today’s article will focus on one of the trails lurking within the perimeters of Lake Catherine State Park.
I’ll be the first to admit that Slunger Creek Nature Trail is far from the longest route meandering through the facility. However, I will suggest that this little trail has one characteristic, in particular, that deems it a very special destination indeed.
And what might that be? Well, it just so happens that Slunger Creek Nature Trail was designed with a specific group of people in mind. Don’t get me wrong; the designated path welcomes all. However, the route makes its way along a level terrain and the walkway is constructed of concrete. In turn, even those who are confined to wheelchairs, or with other mobility limitations, can experience a short jaunt into the forest.
The loop consists of fiveeighths of a mile and makes a loop through an environment
that is both scenic and bountiful with native plants. One shouldn’t be surprised if they happen upon indications that native critters have been frequenting the area. In fact, it’s not beyond the realm of possibilities for one who is quiet to actually catch a glimpse of native wildlife going about their everyday rituals.
That all being said, those with small children might also find the route of interest, as the trail would prove a great classroom. In fact, a few interpretive signs are situated alongside the trails, providing interesting information pertaining to native flora and fauna, as well as the geological characteristics of the Ouachita Mountain Region.
I have actually walked this trail several times throughout the years, as a number of wildflowers can be found taking root within feet of the designated path during the spring season. This was the first time, however, that I had experienced the trek during the summer months.
Of course, pretty much all of the plant species that I was accustomed to seeing had already gone to seed. But I soon concluded that the route has something to offer during all seasons.
I immediately noticed a large mushroom located within feet of the parking area, and as the jaunt continued, I enjoyed the challenge of identifying plants that had already bloomed and were no longer making a showing.
I didn’t arrive at the destination until midafternoon, and the temperature already hovered near the century mark. However, the thick canopy did provide shade, and somewhat of a relief from the brutal sun.
I also came to the realization that the trail had yet another perk that I had not previously considered. This was one of few trails that I could recall where one could actually embark upon a walk during the summer months without the worry of chigger infestation.
Although short, in relation to the other trails meandering through the park, this route did not lack in diversity of environments. The right-hand side of the trail consisted of substrate that was pretty much blanketed with leaf cover. However, thick grass blanketed the ground on the left hand side of the route. In fact, a large opening in the canopy provided a habitat for various sun-loving plants to thrive.
The path also made its way
alongside the remains of a tree that had fallen several seasons ago. This was the perfect example that native wildlife does frequent the area, as an armadillo had obviously been browsing in the decaying wood for
grubs and other potential food sources.
The path eventually veered to the left and made its way to within sight of where Slunger Creek fed into Lake Catherine. The trail continued to veer to the left and would parallel the small waterway for a distance.
However, this is a great location to stop and take in one’s surroundings, as a bench is situated within feet of the creek.
This is one of the most scenic spots of the entire walk. And it is certainly a good spot to relax and enjoy the sounds of Mother Nature.
Although rainfall had been practically nonexistent for the past month or so, a small stream of water still trickled along the creekbed. However, one would think that the sound of water cascading over the rocky substrate would resonate during the wetter seasons of the year.
The trail continued through a pleasant environment to yet another bench overlooking the creek, a little farther upstream. There was also an interpretive sign at this point that shared interesting facts pertaining to animals that depend upon the creek for their survival.
In fact, according to the information posted on the sign, Slunger Creek is home to a rare salamander. The Ouachita streambed salamander was discovered along the creek in 2011 and is considered as rare. In fact, this particular amphibian has only been found within the perimeters of the Lake Catherine State Park.
The trail makes its way to yet another interpretive sign focusing on the distinct geology of the Ouachitas. Those reading the text will learn about the important role novaculite played during the era when Native Americans roamed freely. In fact, one will learn that the mineral is still useful today.
The trail eventually veers to the left and makes a short run prior to returning to the trailhead and parking area where the jaunt began. Although a relatively short walk, this is a trail where one could actually spend an hour or so getting better acquainted with Mother Nature. And although I notoriously rush, I do have intentions of returning to and taking in the natural beauty lurking along the Slunger Creek Nature Trail.
To get to the trail from Hot Springs, take Carpenter Dam Road and continue 3.9 miles to the intersection of Highway 290. Take a left and remain on 290 for 3.5 miles and take a left at the Highway 171 intersection. Remain on 171 for 1.6 miles past the state park sign and the parking area/trailhead will be on the left.