Hike from hell on both the Devil's Knob and the Devil's Backbone
7/29/21
The demon's ridge called me forth. I visited and did see evidence of unusual activity within this ridge of curiosity. It is filled with glades, bluffs and cedars...all perilous in nature. First, breakfast was obtained at Waffle House. This rocky ridge is located about 10 miles north northeast of Mountain View, Arkansas...as the crow flies, that is. To be more specific, it's 8.5 miles east of Sylamore via the curvaceous Hwy 9. A well marked paved road on the left is taken for 2 more miles to the trailhead. I entered at 5:20 with 78°. The trail is well worn and well marked, so getting lost would be difficult to do here...unless. On site are two small peaks that are bridged by a rocky and flat glade, which would be the backbone. The knob is on the western end of the ridge. Be aware that there is danger here. At every turn there is potential for deadly attack by assorted woodland creatures that seem to be possessed by some unknown entity. I circumnavigated the complex and was required to fend off two to three creatures. Each was wrestled and tossed over the edge as examples to associates that might have tried the challenge. The southern exposure has the best views and bluff top action. Be aware that below the bluff overhangs, more potential demon spawn reside. The entire trail was traced and also the bone area as well. Exit was made at 9:15 with 86°. My mileage was 1.8 imperial units. The Loop trail is right at 1.25 miles without detours or just being pulled into the woods by, well, you know.
