Hiking & Backpacking

The Ouachita National Forest offers hikers of all levels an enjoyable experience with clearly
marked trails and varying terrain. The Kerr Arboretum features three self-guided hikes each less
than a mile, making it the perfect spot to get out and stretch your legs during your trip on the
Talimena Scenic Drive, Oklahoma’s National Scenic Byway. A 3.5 mile hike down the Billy Creek Trail which curves down the South side of Winding Stair Mountain will take about 1 1/2 hours, but be prepared to spend 2 1/2 hours to hike back up. Horse Thief Spring Trail is an 11.2 mile loop that crosses several small streams and loops up the North face of Winding Stair Mountain before returning to Cedar Lake. For the real adventurers why not try the 23 mile Broadstand Trail or the full 192 mile Ouachita Trail. Information and maps for these and other trails is available at the Talihina Chamber of Commerce Office or at the National Forest Visitor Center on Talimena Scenic Drive, Oklahoma’s National Scenic Byway.