Backpacking Eagle Rock Loop | Ouachita National Forest

Backpacking the Eagle Rock Loop - Ouachita National Forest, Arkansas. April 20-22, 2018. 26.8 miles (28.6 miles according to my GPS)
Music: “The Wanderer” - Shawn James

[@greaserspillett9498]

I cannot believe how great your beard has grown!

[@ChaseArkansas]

that view at 9:16 is the best reasons to go hiking

[@ChaseArkansas]

i sure do love me some Arkansas in its many different forms

[@DixonHikes]

You & I both, Chase. Thanks for watching!

[@DispersedCamperMan]

You sure can't beat the Ouachita's. I dispersed camped at Caney Creek WMA across the road from there. Lot's of streams and water falls in that area. I gotta go check out Eagle Rock. Just found your channel. Subb'ed. Thanks for sharing!

[@DixonHikes]

I concur! Tons of good dispersed camping sites around this area as well, FYI. This is probably the best Loop-hike in Arkansas - water everywhere & the west side section, Athens-Big Fork, is pretty challenging. Thanks for watching & the Sub!

[@roycebancroft3711]

NMyp I

[@todaywithjesimielmillar1556]

Very beautiful hike! I loved it! ☆ Jesimiel Millar

[@5thGenNativeTexan]

This one is on my bucket list for loops. Anyone have feedback on the best time of year to do it? I've heard that in the spring the water may be higher and that fall might be better? Thanks in advance!

[@DixonHikes]

Fall through Spring are the best times to hike in Arkansas. Having said that, Eagle Rock Loop is one of the few trails I’d consider backpacking in the summer months, due to the constant access to water (to cool off). I’ve spent a lot of time in this area, & I’ve never had a crossing of the Little Missouri River more than knee deep. I would just check the forecast & water levels here waterdata.usgs.gov/usa/nwis/uv?07360200 before making the trip. It’ll rise fast with torrential rain but also drains fast. Hope this helps!

[@5thGenNativeTexan]

@@DixonHikes Thanks very much! Here in the south, I tend to do most of my hikes in the fall / winter. I'm not much for sweating in the tent at night and constantly slapping mosquitos...lol.

[@DixonHikes]

I’m with ya. End of April the backpacking gear goes up, & the golf clubs come out. Ha You won’t be disappointed with the ERL. Fantastic area of the Ouachitas. Enjoy!

[@meghandixon8584]

Best one so far! 🤗

[@heathermcd12]

Wow!

[@Nasgareth]

Great video! Thanks for sharing. Are you using a gimbal on the walking shots?

[@DixonHikes]

Yep! Some trips I’ll take & mount the Karma Grip on my shoulder strap. Buttery smooth. Thanks for watching. ✌🏼

[@Nasgareth]

@@DixonHikes Buttery indeed! I tried filming some of my hikes with what must be the last phone on earth without image stabilization, and it looks like Blair Witch went backpacking! ;)