Old Military Road - Village Creek State Park

Around every corner is a hollowed-out tree, a gulley to veer off into, and an obstacle to navigate. That is the Old Military Road Trail at Village Creek State Park.

The obstacles were few and far between. The biggest threat was time because the sunset was approaching fast. Leaves covered the forest floor and created a slippery surface akin to an ice rink on the trail. But the rich history and scenic beauty made this escapade worth it.

The route I took was a total of 3.5 miles. The adventure began at the visitor center after grabbing a trail map from Park Interpreter Cathy Combs. I walked past my Subaru and began my hike on the Lake Austell trail that meandered through the forest until I arrived at the Old Military Road Trail.

Along the way were yellow leaves morphing colors before December arrives and ensures that they fall to the ground.

I took this video to show you just how spectacular the crunch of the leaves beneath my hiking boots and the fall color was!

The Old Military Road was a major route between Memphis and Little Rock. It was constructed with the Indian Removal Act in mind during the 1820s and 1830s. Hundreds of American Indians used this road during that time. This 1 1/2 mile section is the longest and best-preserved surviving portion of the road.

As I walked the path, I could feel a lingering melancholy. The circumstances of the people whose footsteps I now walked in nearly 200 years later had to be momentously challenging. I gazed at the exposed roots of towering timbers. I paused at one part for a moment of reflection. "Oh, if this soil could talk, it would have so many stories to share."

I never saw another person on this hike until I got almost back to the road.

The cool air of a 60 degree November day and the spectacular backdrop of Crowley's Ridge inspired me to set a goal for myself. I will hike every Saturday for the rest of the year. (Maybe even continue it on into the new year.)

I am opening my blog with this post in an attempt to inspire someone to go outside. The hike I took today was not too long, moderately strenuous, and entirely enjoyable. Arkansas State Parks has 52 different state parks that belong to everyone who decides to enjoy them. Their trails are free, information can be found online at ArkansasStateParks.com.

So be inspired! Go outside! :)