Broken Down in the Ozarks

IMG_9633rr I came across the remains of this old truck this morning. It was on a ridge trail leading to Beaver Lake in Northwest Arkansas. I’d like to hear the stories this broken down piece of history could tell. IMG_9629rr IMG_9621rr In response to The Daily Post’s weekly photo challenge: “Broken.”

Weekly Photo Challenge: “Intricate” in the Ozarks

In response to The Daily Post’s weekly photo challenge: “Intricate.”

Tree bark

Tree bark

These intricate patterns caught my eye while hiking Saturday morning. I’m not sure of the tree name, but it’s located in the Ozarks close to Hobbs State Park in Arkansas. I snapped the picture and hurried on down the trail without trying to identify the tree by its leaves. Maybe someone with more tree identification skills can help.

Several photos from the past came to mind when I read the word ‘intricate.” Intricate patterns or designs in plants, rock, and water reveal themselves along the trails if I’m paying attention. Makes me wonder about the microscopic patterns I’m walking past without a thought.

Detail of rock formations in the Hurricane Creek Wilderness Area

Detail of rock formations in the Hurricane Creek Wilderness Area

Frosty hiking as temperatures plummet.

Frosty intricate pattern on branches on Hare Mountain.

One of the visual gems so easily missed along the Buffalo River Trail.

One of the visual gems so easily missed along the Buffalo River Trail.

The lip of Hare Mountain Falls.

The lip of White Rock Mountain Falls showing intricate patterns in the flow.

Winter Beauty on the Trail

McWater Falls on the Lake Alma Trail

McWater Falls on the Lake Alma Trail

I love hiking the Ozarks in winter!  No bugs, no sweat, and great views.  Add a little water, and you have the recipe for beauty!   These photos were taken this morning between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. The temperature was 17-degrees at the beginning of the hike and warmed up to 24 by the end.

Little Frog Bayou on the Lake Alma Trail

Little Frog Bayou on the Lake Alma Trail

Frost flower next to the trail.

Frost flower next to the trail.

Hiker is a winter dog!  She snuggles up in her straw bed inside her little house, but is ready to hit the trail regardless of temperature.  She got a little impatient at this creek while I was taking photos.  She was ready to move on down the trail!

Hiker-dog

Hiker-dog

Tim Ernst Cloudland Journal and Photography

Tim Ernst Cloudland Journal and Photography

Follow the daily events of Tim Ernst, one of Arkansas’ experts on wilderness areas, trail systems, and photography.