Choctaw Nation Traverse

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Allowed

The Choctaw Nation Trail is a 43-mile multi-use trail that connects Holson Valley with the Kiamichi Valley on the southwest side of the Ouachita Mountains.

Most of the route is doubletrack through a mix of hardwood and pine forests with plenty of up and downs. It's a well-maintained trail and not overly technical. There are a few sections that might be rutted and/or rocky.

Be sure to be stocked up on water and food for this long-distance route. Often times, the creeks are dry and won't be a reliable source of water during a ride.

The ride starts on Old Military Road Trail on the north side of State Highway 1, winding its way to the north flank of Winding Stair Mountain. From here, it splits from the Old Military Road Trail and crosses the highway east of Old Military Road viewpoint.

The route then descends the south side of Winding Stair, crossing the Ouachita Trail several times before reaching the valley floor near Talimena State Park. From here, the ride heads east toward Bohannon Lake. This section is a rolling descent with a handful of steep, short climbs.

There is a big climb as you skirt north past Bohannan Lake, grinding in and out of small drainages along the way. This section of the route also has some beautiful forest and nice views from a prominent ridge.

The descent into Sycamore Creek is steep and quick. You may or may not encounter water here, depending on the season.

The last bit of the ride takes you across the wooded bottomland of Billy Creek, which is usually an exercise in boulder hopping. Once across, look for Forest Road 6020B and turn right (south), following it to the parking area.