American Trails
National Recreation Trail Database

Trail Details: Ouachita Geo-Float Trail

Description

The first of its kind, this float trip was a project of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Arkansas Geologic Commission, and the US Geological Survey. Lake Ouachita is located 13 miles northwest of Hot Springs, in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains. The lake and adjacent land areas are managed by the Corps. The guidebook begins with this introduction: Welcome to a region where, 250 to 300 million years ago, the earth's surface was bent, twisted, and deformed in ways that still baffle professional geologists. The self-guided Ouachita Geo-Float Trail takes you, in your own boat, across the water of Lake Ouachita to some of the most unique geologic features in the world. As the seasons change, so do the natural features of Lake Ouachita. During the fall and winter months it is easier to view the geologic features because the water level is low, but remember, low water levels can make boating hazardous because rocks, stumps, and other obstructions are closer to the surface and the bottom of your boat! Also watch the weather, the time of day, and the gas gauge. Safe boating will make your day more enjoyable The Ouachita Geo-Float trail includes many unique geologic features on the lake, but by no means points out all the interesting natural features you will see. The trail is a 16-mile (25.7 km) trip from the Spillway Recreation Area to Brady Mountain Recreation Area, and will take about 1 1/2 hours to complete. The time will vary depending on your boat's speed and the time you spend at each stop. Follow the map to the bright yellow buoys which mark specific stops along the route. For better understanding of the features, we suggest that you begin at Stop A and continue in alphabetical order.

Type

Water trail

Uses

Swimming Boating, non-motorized: Canoeing Boating, non-motorized: Kayaking Fishing Wildlife observation - Birds Boating, non-motorized: Rafting Boating, non-motorized: Sailing Swimming - Diving/snorkeling

Elevation

 

Visitor Information

State

AR              County: Garland

Directions

Facilities

Picnic area(s) Fire ring(s) Parking RV hookup(s) Boat launch(es) Camping area(s) Bench(es) Cabin(s) Corral(s)/Hitching rail(s) Parking, trailer Public shelter(s) Resort(s)/Ranch(es) Restroom(s) Shower(s) Sign(s), interpretive Trail access information Trailhead(s) Water, potable

Contact Information

Additional Information

Trail Surface

Primary: Water, still

Trail Grade

Date Designated

9/4/1980

Date Updated

4/9/2004

Other Designations

Notes

Trail Design and Construction

Connection with other Trails

Partnership and Support