The Shady Lake Trail is situated southeast of Mena. The trail traverses Saline Creek and passes Shady Lake Dam. The trail is ideal for day hiking and mountain biking.

Trail Highlights: The Shady Lake Trail is situated southeast of Mena. The Shady Lake Trail traverses Saline Creek and passes the historic Shady Lake Dam. It continues along the eastern edge of the campground. The trail is ideal for day hiking and mountain biking.

Trail Information: White rectangles mark this unsurfaced trail.

Surrounding Area: Tucked away in one the most scenic and secluded areas of the rugged Quachita Mountains. Tourists can experience the wonders of the Caney Creek Wilderness. Additionally the 0.5 mile interpretative forest trail explains the basic facts about soil, rocks and plants. Moreover, visitors can camp and or picnic at the Shady Lake Trail Recreation Area. Here there are a multitude of activities available, including fishing and swimming in the 25 acre lake.

Directions: From State Highway 71, At Vandervoort take State Highway, 246 east for 25 miles to Forest Service Road 38. Go north along road for 3 miles to Shady Lake Recreation Area.

Difficulty: Easy

Visitor Information

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