Long Creek Crossing – Brush Heap Mountain Junction loop from Leader Saddle

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

United States

Arkansas

Polk County

Long Creek Crossing – Brush Heap Mountain Junction loop from Leader Saddle

Hard

2.6

(24)

hikers

Long Creek Crossing – Brush Heap Mountain Junction loop from Leader Saddle

09:11

22.6km

980m

Hiking

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Last updated: October 8, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Ouachita National Forest

Waypoints

Start point

Get Directions

657 m

Mountain Pass

2.08 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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2.96 km

McKinley Saddle

Mountain Pass

10.3 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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12.6 km

Eagle Rock Vista Junction

Highlight • Viewpoint

This spur trail junction leads to one of the best panoramic views on the Eagle Rock Loop. It’s easy to miss, especially when you’re focusing on the climb, so keep …

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12.7 km

Eagle Rock Vista

Highlight • Viewpoint

Great views over the forest just off the trail, and a good spot to take a break on this tough trail!

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14.0 km

Viles Branch Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Viles Branch Trail makes up the southeastern section of the Eagle Rock Loop, connecting Athens-Big Fork and Little Missouri Trails through pine forest and along the clear waters of Viles …

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22.6 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

21.4 km

1.18 km

Surfaces

22.6 km

Elevation