Ridge Walks, Forest Roads, and a Bigfoot Hideout

I woke up after a solid night of sleep, cozied up in my tent near the Mulberry River. As soon as I opened my eyes, I could feel the chill in the air—and noticed the outside of my tent was soaked with condensation. So I stayed bundled up, packed everything neatly inside the tent, and then hauled my gear up to the warm communal hangout room, pushing my buggy up the gravel road.

Once everything else was set, I returned to take down the damp tent and stashed it in a plastic bag. I took my time organizing everything with intention. Starting the day warm and organized is half the mental game out here.

I made my way back to Highway 64, and just like that—it was uphill from the get-go. After a bit, the road evened out until I turned right onto Georgia Ridge Drive, which began with a steep climb before rewarding me with a beautiful ridge walk. Eventually, it led me to Highway 71, the road that will carry me deep into the Ozark National Forest.

The day warmed up quickly. After a brisk, chilly start, the sun turned up the heat, and it stayed hot for the rest of the walk. The road—especially Highway 71—was full of tempting, runnable stretches, but I held back. My leg is feeling much better, and I'm determined to be patient. I don’t need to run yet. I’m in no rush, and walking allows me to soak in the beauty all around me.

And what a day for beauty. The Ozark views flanked me on both sides. It was hilly—of course—but the weather, the light, the sweeping forest vistas… it all made for an unforgettable day.

Since I’m still walking, the miles stretch out, and the day follows with them. I’ve come to enjoy that rhythm. There’s something grounding about spending the entire day in motion, slowly but surely inching forward.

I had a rough idea where I wanted to stay but wasn’t sure it would work out: The Bigfoot Hideout, an Airbnb run by a fellow traveler named Sha. When I arrived, Charlotte, who lives there, welcomed me warmly. Then Sha pulled a double win: first, a great conversation, and second—espresso from his very own little coffee shop. YES, please.

Later, I met some of Sha’s family and two brothers from Texas who are visiting the Ozarks for mountain biking. As the sun dipped behind the hills, Sha and Charlotte lit up the campfire. We gathered, chatted, laughed. It felt like community, like the kind of place you want to stay a little longer.

Now I’m winding down in a cozy room. Another full, beautiful, slow, and meaningful day.

Until tomorrow, Andrea