North Sylamore Creek Trail – Barkshed to Gunner Pool
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of the Ozark National Forest, the North Sylamore Creek Trail offers hikers a picturesque journey through the enchanting wilderness of Arkansas. At 4.1 miles, this trail follows the meandering course of North Sylamore Creek, providing nature enthusiasts with a perfect blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. In this article, we will take you on a virtual tour of the North Sylamore Creek Trail from Barkshed Recreation Area to Gunner Pool Recreation Area, uncovering the natural wonders and recreational opportunities that await.
Barkshed Recreation Area
Our adventure begins at Barkshed Recreation Area, one of the trailheads of the North Sylamore Creek Trail. Here, hikers are greeted by towering hardwoods and the soothing sounds of the creek, setting the stage for a memorable outdoor experience. The trail is well-marked, making it accessible for both novice and experienced hikers. As you embark on your journey, keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that call this region home, including vibrant wildflowers, songbirds, and perhaps even a glimpse of local wildlife.
The trailhead is marked by a large sign with a map of the entire trail. From the campground, follow the road away from the creek for a short distance, and you will see the sign on the right side of the road. This is where you can view a map that shows all the sections of the trail, including the section from Barkshed to Gunner Pool.
We found that the best way to hike this trail was to take two vehicles and park one at Gunner Pool. Then we loaded into the second vehicle for the short drive along gravel roads through the Ozark National Forest to the Barkshed Recreation Area.
North Sylamore Creek
The trail closely follows North Sylamore Creek, offering hikers the opportunity to enjoy the calming ambiance of flowing water. The creek’s clear waters wind through the forest, creating serene pools and gentle rapids. Take a moment to pause and appreciate the unique rock formations that line the creek, creating a visually stunning backdrop for your hike.
The trail has a number of elevation changes along the route. These take you from hiking right along beside the creek, up to scenic overlooks well above the creek, and back down to creek level several times. The scenery is amazing with panoramic views of the creek and surrounding hills.
Watch the video at the beginning of the article to see some of the amazing vistas you will experience as you hike this portion of the trail.
Scenic Overlooks of North Sylamore Creek
As you make your way along the trail, be sure to watch for the various scenic overlooks that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. These vantage points offer hikers a chance to rest, recharge, and capture the beauty of the Ozarks on camera. The changing colors of the foliage with the seasons make each visit a unique and captivating experience.
As you make your way along the trail beside towering bluffs, the creek runs far below in the valley. These spots on the trail make for excellent views and interesting rock formations along many stretches of the trail.
Gunner Pool Recreation Area
This section of the North Sylamore Creek Trail concludes at the Gunner Pool Recreation Area, where hikers can revel in the sense of accomplishment and take advantage of the amenities available. Gunner Pool offers a tranquil setting for picnicking, fishing, or simply unwinding by the water’s edge. The crystal-clear waters of the pool are inviting for a refreshing dip, especially on warm summer days.
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