This 22.1 mile loop combines the first section of the Ouachita Trail with two prominent trails in Holson Valley, the Boardstand and Old Military Road Trails. It is probably the best hike in Oklahoma providing a sampling of the OT without the need for a shuttle.

Situated in the rugged Ouachita Mountains, the Boardstand-Old Military Road Loop offers the best 2 night hike in Oklahoma. It is comprised of 3 trails, the Ouachita, the Old Military Road and the Boardstand and, with 7 different trailheads, there are plenty of options for customizing the hike. The Oklahoma Ouachitas can be very hot and very dry so hikers are encouraged to check about water availability with the Forest Service and cache water if necessary.

The Ouachita Mountains were formed by low angle thrust faults of Pennsylvanian aged clastic rocks. The top of Winding Stair Mountain is a competent sandstone of the Jackfork Formation; the valleys are formed from eroded shale. The mountains have a maximum relief of about 1,600 feet and, in this area, reach a maximum elevation of almost 2,400 feet.

The trail begins at Talimena State Park (Trailhead #1, TH1), just off of US Highway 271 northeast of Talihina Oklahoma. The trailhead for the Ouachita Trail (blue blazes) is well marked and on the east side of the park. Camping, showers and restrooms are available. Tent camping $12 per night. Overnight parking while hiking is $5 per night payable at the envelope drop at the trailhead.

The Boardstand-Old Military Loop was featured in the June 2007 Backpacker Magazine, Wild Weekend, Midwest Edition

This video was shot by YouTube User: Padlock6

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