Crystal Springs
Views like this await hikers when the Crystal Springs to Brady Mountain segment along Bear Mountain is complete.
Description:
The Crystal Springs trail segment begins at the Crystal Springs Campground pavilion on Crystal Springs Rd., travels across Little Bear Mountain, and terminates, at least for 2011, at Little Bear Creek at the base of Big Bear Mountain. Little Bear Mountain is very, very steep making this trail segment the most challenging section of the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail. The canopy permits more light than most of the other trail segments and, above the six severe switchbacks, there is no canopy. Two major creeks are traversed via Boulder Fords, a feature unique to the LOViT. Despite the difficulty, the Crystal Springs Trail segment offers a peek at a campground beach where the laughter of swimming children echoes through the trees and, as the trail climbs, it offers unprecedented views of valleys and creeks and a nice cascade waterfall near the termination. Cone flowers and coreopsis abound in the Spring.
If you walk to the termination point, the only way out is to backtrack. Planned 2012 construction, which will begin in December 2011, will add an additional 11 miles to the trail — also with no takeout options until we get almost to Blakely Mountain Dam.
Take food and plenty of water. This is a long walk with no takeouts.
Surrounding Area:
The Crystal Springs trailhead is located adjacent to the Crystal Springs Campground and the Crystal Springs Resort.
Length:
3.5 miles to the current (2011) termination of the trail at Little Bear Creek.
Difficulty:
Very strenuous. Steep climbing with six severe switchbacks.
Amenities:
The Crystal Springs Campground and Crystal Springs Resort offer lodging, water, bathrooms, a full service marina, and seasonal food. There are no amenities at the end of the trail.
Directions to Trailhead:
From Mount Ida and Hot Springs take US 270 to Crystal Springs Road and turn north toward the lake. Go about 2.5 miles and you will see the campground pavilion on the left side of the road. Park at the pavilion.
To go east on the Crystal Springs trail, walk past the trailhead sign and the pavilion to an opening marked with a tree blaze and a sign.
To go west to the Pipe Spring trailhead, follow the arrows pointing toward the Charlton Trail.
Accommodations:
The Crystal Springs Campgrounds offers RV and tent camping, most with electricity. Crystal Springs Resort offers lodging, marina, restaurant, and other services. Some services are seasonal, so be sure to check with the resort for details.