Hiking In Greers Ferry Lake !
(A "Fairfield Bay Rentals ready to serve renters, owners and service providers." article)
Greers Ferry Lake is an approximately 32,500 acre man-made lake that was established in the early 1960's,and was built for recreation and flood control for North Central Arkansas. Like other lake areas in the natural state we boast about our excellent boating, sailing and of course fishing. However if hiking through the woods, observing nature and beautiful lake views along the trail is what you're looking for Fairfield Bay and in particular hiking on Sugar Loaf Mountain is definitely a must.
Sugar Loaf Mountain's hiking trail is Arkansas's first nationally designated trail and is only reachable by boat. Fairfield Bay Marina has a scheduled Sugar Loaf Shuttle Service for your convenience. But, be sure to call the marina to reserve you shuttle seats. Once you reach Sugar Loaf be prepare for a great adventure. Your hike to the top of the tree covered island mountain will take you on a 1.6-mile trail to the summit, along the way you will encounter a wide variety of native plants and wildflowers and will observe massive stone formations. As the trail reaches the bluffs at the southern end of the island, a series of wooden stairs will aid your steep climb to the top. There are several places to enjoy the stunning views along the trail so be sure to keep you camera ready.
At the summit you will be almost 600 feet above the lake and a 1,001 feet above sea level. On the flat area at the mountain top you can catch a breath and enjoy nature at it's best. It's likely you'll encounter at least a few of the island's inhabitants, mostly small animals such as squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, chipmunks and numerous birds populate the mountain. Sugar Loaf serves as a game refuge and of course no hunting is allowed.
For those of you who want to hike on the island but aren't physically capable of handling the steep trail to the top there's a second trail that skirts the perimeter of Sugar Loaf that will be just right for you.
Be sure to take water and a small snack for that added energy you'll need during the hike. As a nature refuge the mountain has no drinkable water or areas to purchase food. These items can be purchased at the Fairfield Bay Marina or from other convenience shops in the Fairfield Bay area.
Have an adventure take a Sugar Loaf Mountain Hike !
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