Sinking Creek Trailhead

The Sinkin Trailhead provides access to the middle of the Between the Rivers Section of the Ozark Trail (OT). There is an old cabin and fire lookout tower near the trailhead. Visitors usually are able to find parking easily at this trailhead. The Between the Rivers Section of the Ozark Trail provides the necessary connection between the Current and Eleven Point Rivers. In addition to traversing impressive stands of white oak, shortleaf pine, and scarlet oak, the trail offers pleasant views of the surrounding countryside. Look into the past when nearing Bristol Cemetery or explore the lichen covered boulder field at Devil's Run. From Highway 60, the trail leads generally south for the first 13 miles winding through numerous small tributaries that feed the Current River, including Wildhorse Hollow, Chilton Creek, Devil's Run, and Big Barren Creek. From Big Barren Creek, the trail heads west along the north prong of Cedar Bluff Creek. The trail climbs gently out of Cedar Bluff Creek drainage and crosses a major ridge that divides the Current River watershed and the Eleven Point River watershed. The last eight and one-half mile of trail proceed generally southwest following Gold Mine Hollow, the ridge above Kelly Hollow, and Fox Hollow before ending on Forest Service Road 3152 above Hurricane Creek. There are three trailheads on this section. Highway 60 - approximately 3.5 miles west of Van Buren. From that point, the trail leads southwest to Forest Service Road #3152 near Hurricane Creek in Oregon County. Trail head parking is provided at Hwy 60 and at Sinking Creek Lookout Tower approximately 1 mile west of Hwy J. Limited roadside parking is possible at the southern end of the trail on FS #3152.