Athens-Big Fork Trail – Spirit Rock Vista loop from Big Fork Fire Department District 9

Routes

Running trails & routes

Athens-Big Fork Trail – Spirit Rock Vista loop from Big Fork Fire Department District 9

Hard

runners

Athens-Big Fork Trail – Spirit Rock Vista loop from Big Fork Fire Department District 9

05:14

32.3km

1,280m

Running

Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Last updated: November 11, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Ouachita National Forest

Waypoints

Start point

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5.08 km

Missouri Mountain Pass

Mountain Pass

6.36 km

Athens-Big Fork Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Athens-Big Fork Trail cuts through the rugged heart of the Ouachita Mountains, climbing over six major ridgelines in just nine miles. It’s a steep, rocky route with more than …

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7.42 km

Spirit Rock Vista

Highlight • Viewpoint

A prominent feature along the Eagle Rock Loop Trail with picturesque views over the diverse landscape of dense forests and rocky terrain in the Ouachitas.

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7.51 km

Spirit Rock Viewpoint Junction

Highlight • Viewpoint

This short spur trail is just under a half mile long and leads to an incredible viewpoint with sweeping views of the Ouachita Mountains. It’s a quick five-minute detour that …

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9.68 km

Long Creek Crossing

Highlight • River

Long Creek is a quiet, slow-moving stream that typically flows year-round. Depending on the season, the water can be ankle-deep or just low enough to rock-hop across, keeping your feet …

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16.2 km

Brush Heap Mountain Junction

Highlight • Mountain Pass

Brush Heap Mountain marks one of the steepest climbs on the Athens-Big Fork Trail, with this junction sitting near the top of a long, rocky ascent. The trail levels briefly …

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23.6 km

McKinley Saddle

Mountain Pass

32.3 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

19.4 km

7.72 km

4.29 km

904 m