Outdoor Adventures in the Ozarks

     Exploring caves in the National Forest or Buffalo National River can be ‘hit-or-miss ’ with  most caves closed to protect bat populations.  One exception to these closures is Saltpeter Cave on Almus Knob, a fairly well-known cave that’s also pretty big.  But we haven’t gone to see it, since it’s in the Leatherwood Wilderness I always assumed there wouldn’t be a trail to it. Peterpepper Cave at the top of a little hill      Then I read about Caney Mountain Horse Camp and the many trails they have developed all over the lower Buffalo area, we decide to hope for the best and check it out.  Today is Sunday but the Leatherwood Wilderness is fairly remote,  so we don’t expect lots of other visitors even though it’s a nice cool day, perfect for hiking. skylight in Peterpepper      The Almus Knob parking area is at the intersection where Spring Creek Road ends at Rand Road, with room for around 7 or 8 vehicles.  Next to the sign pointing south ‘Spring Creek Trailhead .5 mile’ is an ob

     I've wanted to see Indian Creek for a long long time, but every account of this area always seems to include warnings .  Phrases used to describe the hike like ‘very dangerous’ ‘slippery and steep’ ‘use extreme caution’ have kept me away...and it’s true Indian Creek has more hiking injuries than any other area of the Buffalo National River. trailside spring      Unfortunately,  a hiker from Missouri fell to his death here just last month, and he wasn’t the first.  Even with all the warnings Indian Creek is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the park, part of that is probably because it is so dangerous.  Some people see it as a challenge, but another big draw to Indian Creek is its  high level of awesome beauty. at the start of Indian Creek Trail      Today I’m hiking alone, Kat read of someone’s adventure up Indian Creek online and said, ‘no thanks’.  Parking is at the trailhead at the west end of Kyle’s Landing campground, with room for maybe six cars.  Monday