Outdoor Adventures in the Ozarks

    A while back when I was perusing the internet, I found ‘AGFC Mapper 3.0’ and was impressed with all the firelanes at Gene Rush that could be used for hiking.  I also noticed a road that I hadn’t ever seen on any map, called ‘Seed Tick’.  I quickly checked, using satellite imaging and confirmed this road does exist.  Well I knew right then I would have to check it out, since Seed Tick along with Quantum Leap should be a fine loop hike. nature's beauty on Quantum Leap Rd.        Driving all the way across Gene Rush from west to east, I realize I’m starting to get pretty familiar with the lay of the land here in the Wildlife Management Area, and make good time on the excellent dirt/gravel roads.  This increased familiarity comes from four recent hikes at Gene’s place:  210 Firelanes and Lick Creek , 212 Cave Creek , 220 Lower Lick Creek , 225 Maberry Loop , and I’m sure I’ll be back for more. inside the heavy-duty green ...

       Whenever I’m looking for a hike close to home, I always seem to wind up at either Mincy Conservation Area (see: 111 , 112 , 133 , 175 , 218 ) or Slippery Hollow Natural Area (see: 108 , 109 , 176 , 202 ) , both are great areas for hikers.   But there are other places, also close to the house that I always overlook.   Today we’re going to check out ‘Fred Berry Conservation Education Center on Crooked Creek’, a long name, yes, but as we’re about to find out a beautiful place and close... Crooked Creek      Yes I said ‘we’, Kat has decided to come along for the adventure after I assure her, this should be an easy hike.   We drove around at ‘Fred Berry’ once many years ago, but this will be our first hike at the Ed. Center in Yellville, which is administered by Arkansas Game and Fish.   We pull into the Natural Area, crossing the bridge over Crooked Creek with Kelly’s Slab visible just downstream. first view of the creek on Cree...