Ouachita Trail (section 08) mile 168.8 to 179.2 (multiple hikes)

This is a special section of the OT...   it traverses Flatside Wilderness from the southwest corner to the northeast border.  This 'traverse' is roughly 10.4 miles.

After leaving FR124 the trail tracks below the ridgeline of White Oak Mountain for about 5 miles, to Grindstone Gap.  Along the way it passes Green Thumb Spring, which is a reliable source of water.  Don't underestimate the difficulty of this section...  overall, the cumulative elevation gains are well over 1000 feet.

Grindstone Gap is really just a trail junction and not really notable for anything else.  There is a little spur going out to FR152 with an OT access sign. 

After Grindstone Gap, the OT winds down through some nice gullies and ravines to reach a place called Moccasin Springs.  The photo on the right shows the small falls here.  Its really a remarkable place, with a nice small falls and a large cliff/bluff (scramble up) that has a very nice view.

The next notable landmark is Crystal Prong Creek, where the OT crosses a large creek.   This could be tricky after heavy rains, as the bridge washed out a few years ago and there is currently no bridge at all.  After the Crystal Prong Creek crossing, the trail winds uphill through several beautiful ravines, finally reaching FR94 at 179.2, which is the parking area near Flatside Pinnacle.

Overall, this is a beautiful section of the OT.   Below are listings of hikes in this area.