Join host Dennis Simpson with Hot Springs Village Venues for an aerial and ground tour of the Ouachita National Forest, the “Ancient Spine of America.” Located right on the back doorstep of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, this massive 1.8-million-acre wilderness is the oldest and largest national forest in the Southern United States.
In this episode, we explore the unique geology of the Ouachita Mountains—where ridges run east-to-west unlike almost any other range in North America. We’ll take you on a drive through Arkansas Scenic Byway 7, a route so stunning it has been called one of the top 10 drives in North America.
Discover the rich history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the “Tree Army” that built the forest’s infrastructure, from gravel service roads to native stone pavilions, during the Great Depression. We also highlight the Ouachita National Recreation Trail, a premier 223-mile backpacking route that stretches from Oklahoma to Little Rock.
Whether you’re a local resident or planning a visit to Hot Springs Village, this video is your guide to the rugged sanctuary that defines our region.
Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 – 1:10 | Welcome to the Ancient Spine: Introduction to the 1.8 million-acre Ouachita National Forest near Hot Springs Village.
01:10 – 2:48 | The Geography of the Ouachitas: Exploring the unique east-west ridges and ancient mountain architecture.
02:48 – 4:10 | Arkansas Scenic Byway 7: Driving the “crooked and steep” roller coaster through the mountains.
04:10 – 5:44 | Saving the Forest: President Theodore Roosevelt and the creation of the Arkansas National Forest in 1907.
05:44 – 8:31 | The Legacy of the CCC: How FDR’s “Tree Army” carved out roads, built dams, and planted millions of trees.
8:31 – 9:28 | Hot Springs & The Forest: The historic link between the “Spa City” and its rugged wilderness playground.
9:28 – 10:12 | The Ouachita National Recreation Trail: A look at the 223-mile premier backpacking route.
10:12 – End | A Rugged Sanctuary: Final thoughts on the enduring value of our national forest.