Ozark Trail: Karkagne Section

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The lower 18 miles of this section were constructed in the 1980's, stretching from Sutton Bluff to Highway 72. In 2000, a 10-mile extension was added to Oates. This section of trail heads along the contours of the hills and bluffs, continuing just below the ridge line as it twists and turns its way from Oates to Highway 72. The trail dips intermittently into the valleys as it crosses the West Fork of the Black River, Bee Fork, and a few hollows along the way.

Near the southern end of the trail is an optional spur to Grasshopper Hollow, the largest fen complex in non-glaciated North America. Similar to bogs or swamps in appearance, fens are distinct in that their acidity is neutral or basic because they typically are formed over beds of limestone.