As you hike through this stretch of the OHT, you’ll see plenty of signs of forest renewal, with less dense forest and open terrain and a recovering understory where native oak and pine are making a comeback. This area is part of the Ozark Highlands Ecosystem Restoration Project, launched in 2012 to improve habitat for wildlife such as wild turkeys, prairie warblers, and northern bobwhites. As you reach the upper end of this area toward Whiting Mountain (traveling east), the trail opens up to beautiful views of the Mulberry River Valley below.