Outdoor Adventure Meetup

We will meet at Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Beer Garden in Hot Springs at noon.

Those coming from Memphis should leave the Pyramid at 9:00 am sharp, so please plan on being there earlier than that, so that you can arrange rides. I will be camping Friday night in Hot Springs, so Melissa will be leading the group meeting at the Pyramid, and coming across from Memphis

Before heading over to hike on the Caddo Bend Trail, we will take a short drive to the top of North Mountain, and those who would like to can take the elevator to the top of the tower for a scenic view of Hot Springs and the fall foliage.

Caddo Bend Trail
JR9C+3H
Mountain Pine, AR 71956

• 4mi Length
• 495ft Elevation gain
• 1.5–2hr Estimated time

This route includes beautiful wildflowers, large boulder gardens, abundant quartz rocks, scenic views, and an observation deck overlooking the lake at the end of the point. The trail begins near the park amphitheater and circles the entire peninsula before returning to the beginning. There are yellow markers on the trees along the route.

Bring a camera, as you are sure to have some spectacular fall views.

Optional Dinner at the Grumpy Rabbit on the way back to Memphis.

Moro Bay State Park
6071 Hwy. 600
Jersey, AR 71651

We will meet at the Bass Pro Pyramid north parking lot off Front Street (the smaller parking lot close to auto bridge over to Mud Island) at 8:45 am for those who would like to carpool. We will leave at 9:00 am.

About this park:
A great getaway, this park offers lots of privacy and some of the best cabins in the state. Fishing is popular year-round where Moro Bay and Raymond Lake join the Ouachita River. Park facilities include 23 Class AAA campsites, trails, picnic sites, pavilion, playground, and the Moro Bay Ferry exhibit. A marina with boat and slip rentals, gas and a store make it a good spot for boaters, but even in peak season, it never feels crowded. Each of the park’s five, fully equipped cabins features two bedrooms, two baths, a kitchen, and screened deck and outdoor living area overlooking Moro Bay. Interpretive programs are offered seasonally.

Arkansas State Parks list:
https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks

Planned Hike: Cypress Bend Trail
Trail is at Lake D'Arbonne ($3 entrance fee)
3.9mi Length
229ft Elevation gain
1h 21m Estimated time
Loop Trail

There are no decent trails anywhere near this State Park, so we'll drive a little bit south, to hike at Cypress Bend Trail, a 3.9-mile loop trail near Bernice, Louisiana. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 21 min to complete. This trail is great for birding, hiking, and mountain biking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

Food: Beech Street Bistro
For those who would like to join us for a meal, we are planning on eating at Beech Street Bistro, 202 Beech St, Crossett, AR 71635