<aside> ⚠️
This trip was originally planned for the Rob and Melanie Walton Nature Preserve, but we just learned that the preserve will be closed to the public this weekend. We have chosen a similar location in terms of species targets, driving time, and difficulty. All participants who registered for the Walton Preserve trip will now be assumed to be attending this one. If you wish to change trips, you may request to join another trip with availability at registration.
</aside>
Cherry Bend is legendary among NWA birders for its unique access to wonderful Ozark Upland habitat. The targets of this trip will be Cerulean Warbler and Worm-eating Warbler that have been reliable breeders along these north-facing slopes, as well as other typical Ozark upland breeders. This trip will involve 2-3 hours of slow hiking over moderately steep terrain. Good hiking shoes, water, snacks, and insect repellent are a must.
There are no restrooms at the trailhead. The closest sensible stop for amenities is the Pig Trail Bypass Country Cafe in Crosses, which is on the way and about 20 minutes from Cherry Bend. The exact location of the trailhead parking area for Cherry Bend is GPS 35.743397, -93.811554.
<aside> 📍
Field trips will meet at Mount Sequoyah Retreat Center outside of Millar Lodge (GPS 36.064169, -94.146958). Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your departure time to allow time for parking, finding your group, and checking in with your trip leader. We encourage carpooling. If you wish to meet at the site, or have any other accommodation requests please contact Taylor Long at [email protected] or text 479-530-9084.
</aside>
Adam Schaffer and Ragan Sutterfield will lead the caravan from Mt Sequoyah, leaving at 7:00 AM. The drive to the preserve will take approximately 50 minutes. Expect the walk to last 2-3 hours and return to Mt Sequoyah by noon.
From Fayetteville, head Southeast on HWY 16 for about 28 miles. You’ll pass through Elkins, Durham, Crosses, Combs, all the way to Brashears where you’ll turn right (South) onto HWY 23. Follow HWY 23 South for 5.5 more miles until you see a sign for “Ozark Highlands Trail Parking” pointing to a small gravel parking area on the left side of the road. This is the trailhead parking area. GPS 35.743397, -93.811554.
Turn-off for trailhead parking on the left.
From the moment you leave your vehicle, you might hear and and all of the specialties of this trip. Listen for Black-throated Green Warblers singing above you in the tree tops, some likely part of our unique isolating breeding population in the Ozarks. Before you venture up hill for the main part of the hike, walk a short way towards the steep ravine your East and listen for Ovenbird, Hooded Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Wood Thrush, Yellow-throated Vireo, and Scarlet Tanager. The main hike should take you West, across the road and up the steep slope heading Southwest. As you start rising in elevation along the steep slope, you should be entering prime habitat for Cerulean Warbler and Worm-eating Warbler. Take your time up the steep slope and keep your ears open. The trail splits subtly towards the top of the hill but keep upslope (to the right) to make it to the very top where you’ll find and old rock shelter that hikers of the Ozark Highlands Trail use for shelter. Once you’ve reached the rock house, you’ll be looking out over a steep drop into the canopy again where you may get more comfortable views of your target birds than when you were staring up the immensely tall trees on the way up the hill. On most of my visits, the rock house is as far as I ever get before turning back the way I came. Feel free to venture further along this trail until you’re ready to turn back. Wonderful treasures await you!
