The next section along Trace Creek is an enjoyable, quiet walk in the woods. Some hikers may choose to continue on Trace Creek to the Taum Sauk section, but OT thru-hikers should head west onto Middle Fork/John Roth Memorial section to complete the longer route. This hilly 26-mile segment gains over 2,600 feet ozark trail chair of elevation over a contoured landscape crossing brooks, streams, and wetlands, as well as small savannahs of oak and hickory hardwoods. Camp at Highway DD trailhead near the section’s start or Harper Spring around the 15 mile-mark. Walmart had a small section of packs and for the most part I was satisfied.
Keeping the load under 15 pounds seems to be the key. I really wanted to use it for our fall two-nighter on the AT, but was unable to fit my bivy with a 20 degree Kelty Cosmic down bag inside. I contemplated stepping down to the 45 degree bag, but thankfully, ozark trail backpack did not. The Ozark Trail Association maintains a number of maps to help you traverse each section of the trail. If you are using your phone for navigation, pack a paper copy of a map in case you lose signal or find yourself without battery.
If you’re searching east of the Rockies for stunning scenery, technical terrain, and a long hike option sans the AT crowds, this is your pick. I’ve carried it in bad weather, including rain and snow. Some days this bag was heavier than I would have chosen it to be. However, it took a pretty good beating and has held up.
You may encounter some natural hazards when hiking through the wilderness, but it shouldn’t deter you from enjoying the outdoors. Tent, hammock or open-air camping — choose your camping style based on experience and comfort level. Be prepared to face changing weather conditions out in the wilderness. Bring enough water for your trip or a way to purify water to make it safe to drink.
One of the best parts of hiking is settling around a campfire at the end of the day and enjoying a hot meal. You may find it helpful to make a list of meals for each day you are out on the trail to ensure that you are not over- or under-packing for your trip. The entire trail is open to hikers and offers easy and moderate hiking conditions.
There is a lack of reinforcement on the pack’s taffeta bottom, though. Shoulder straps are lightweight mesh-lined with very little padding. Breathable mesh shoulder straps and a sternum support strap make for all-day comfort while the two side water bottle pockets encourage ample hydration.
While much of the trail is under a shady tree canopy, you’ll still want to use sunscreen to prevent any burns. Bring a dedicated bear canister or hang a bear bag for all food and other aromatic items that might attract a bear’s attention.