2024’s Top Aperture Abenteuer for Juxtaposed Tides: The April Solar Eclipse

Prepping for the April Total Solar Eclipse

There’s something simply magical about the cosmos, especially when we find it aligning in a way that leaves us awe-inspired and humbled. While the year held so many aperture abenteuers that will forever be dear kindling to our souls’ flame, there is one particular event that takes precedence to all…

For 2024, the Total Solar Eclipse of April quickly earned its place as the ultimate adventure on Juxtaposed Tides’ calendar. Having marveled at the celestial spectacle during the 2017 eclipse, we knew we couldn’t miss this one—especially as the path of totality conveniently traced its way across the U.S., bringing it tantalizingly close to our home base in North Carolina. But an epic experience requires epic preparation, and that’s where the journey truly began. 

Preplanning: Charting the Path to Perfection

“Proper preparation prevents poor performance.” That mantra has became the cornerstone of our adventure planning process, and it carried us through weeks of research and decision-making, learning and acquiring all kinds of goodies along the way. With tools like Google Maps, AllTrails, Sky Tonight, and the indispensable PhotoPills, as well as countless notes from infinite searches in hand, we set out to create the ultimate game plan.

The first order of business? Pinning down the path of totality. Using PhotoPills' stellar eclipse tracker, we mapped out the exact locations where totality would unfold, with its breathtaking darkness lasting just over four minutes in prime viewing spots. The path, stretching from Texas to Maine, passed directly through Arkansas—a state we had never explored but quickly became enchanted by, thanks to its pristine wilderness and lack of light pollution.

Arkansas Beckons: Balancing Nature and Nostalgia

Our decision to head to Arkansas wasn’t entirely based on a map. My father’s boyhood stories of adventures near the Lafayette River in eastern Arkansas painted a vivid picture of a landscape teeming with possibility. Combine that nostalgia with the promise of the Ozark Mountains’ towering peaks and vast, open skies, rich folk lore and we were sold.

But Arkansas remained a mystery to us—uncharted territory filled with promise and potential. To bridge that physical gap, we leaned heavily on technology. AllTrails helped us pinpoint the highest elevations with expansive views, perfect for tracking the sun’s trajectory during the eclipse as well as great information and exacts on trail and mountain details. National Forest lands throughout the Ozarks seemed to offer the jackpot: high peaks, unspoiled nature, and likely a crowd-free experience, if we found ourselves in just the right wilderness!

Backup Plans and Big-Sky Dreams

While narrowing down our options, we knew flexibility would be key. The wilderness can be unpredictable, and so can eclipse-day weather. We meticulously planned primary, secondary, and even tertiary locations, each cross-referenced using PhotoPills and AllTrails to ensure optimal viewing. Along the way, we also factored in practicalities like wildlife precautions, hiking challenges, and accessibility.

Adding to the excitement, our passion for trout fishing offered a serendipitous bonus: Arkansas happens to host some of the best fishing waters in the U.S., including the river that once yielded a world-record trout. This adventure was shaping up to be more than just an eclipse trip—it was a chance to blend our love for nature, photography, and celestial wonders into one unforgettable journey.

Gearing Up: Cameras, Comfort, and Care

No trip of this magnitude could be complete without serious preparation on the equipment front. From camera gear to capture the eclipse in all its glory, to hiking essentials for exploring the Ozark wilderness, every detail required thoughtful planning. Research into shooting techniques for low-light conditions, safety precautions for both us and our gear, and wildlife awareness became just as important as choosing the perfect vantage point.

Crowds might have been inevitable, given the growing hype around the 2024 eclipse, but we remained committed to carving out a slice of solitude for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The stage was set. All that remained was to hit the road and hope that our meticulous preparation would lead to celestial perfection.

Navigating the Great Weather Ploy

When it comes to celestial events like a total solar eclipse, there’s one wildcard that can make or break the experience: the weather. As any eclipse chaser knows, a perfectly planned trip can be dashed by an untimely bank of clouds or a sudden shift in atmospheric conditions. For the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, weather loomed as the ultimate deciding factor—and, at times, a source of serious frustration. 

A Storm of Speculation

Weather forecasts for the path of totality started circulating months before the event. Many were grim, warning of storms and cloud cover over key regions, including parts of Arkansas. We couldn’t help but wonder: Were these forecasts genuine, or were they exaggerated to deter the massive crowds expected to flock to the path of totality? It wasn’t far-fetched, given the chaos of 2017, when gridlocked highways and overwhelmed towns left an indelible mark on the memory of eclipse-watchers across the nation.

The skepticism didn’t end there. Some weather models contradicted others, leaving us in a constant state of second-guessing. But the unpredictable nature of weather meant we couldn’t afford to ignore the forecasts entirely. Instead, we doubled down on flexibility and prepared for every possible outcome.

The Almost Northern Detour

As the countdown to eclipse day grew shorter, so did our patience with the weather reports. A forecast of imminent storms in Arkansas had us seriously considering a last-minute pivot to states farther north, including Indiana and Kentucky. The idea of abandoning our carefully chosen spots in the Ozarks for a new location was both daunting and disheartening. After all, we had invested hours of planning into finding the perfect Arkansas vantage point.

Yet the thought of driving hundreds of miles only to be greeted by overcast skies filled us with doubt. We debated endlessly: Should we stick to our original plan, risking disappointment? Or should we play it safe and settle for a less-than-ideal, but guaranteed view, closer to home in North Carolina? The tension was palpable as we weighed the pros and cons of each option.

Weather Preparedness: The Key to Success

Ultimately, we decided to trust our instincts—and our research. Armed with the latest updates from weather apps and radar tools, we resolved to stay in Arkansas but kept our backup plans at the ready. If the skies turned gray, we’d be prepared to relocate to one of our secondary or tertiary spots. This decision emphasized the importance of preparation: having a plan is essential, but so is the willingness to adapt when circumstances change.

We also factored in the possibility of delays caused by weather-induced traffic snarls. Our plan included arriving at our chosen viewing site well ahead of time to scout the conditions and make any necessary adjustments. With backup routes mapped out and plenty of patience, we felt ready to face whatever the skies had in store.

The Eclipse Gamble

In the end, chasing a total solar eclipse is as much about embracing the uncertainty as it is about meticulous planning. While we couldn’t control the weather, we could control how we responded to it. For us, this meant staying optimistic, flexible, and resourceful—a lesson that would prove invaluable as the adventure unfolded.

And so, with fingers crossed and forecasts scrutinized, we set our sights on Arkansas, determined to witness the celestial event of the year under the best conditions possible. Would our gamble pay off? Only the skies could tell.

Arkansas Eclipse or Bust

With our bags packed, cameras secured, and excitement brimming, the day of departure finally arrived. The decision was made: Arkansas or bust! Despite the looming weather uncertainties, we embraced the adventure with open hearts, eager to chase the celestial spectacle that awaited us in the path of totality.

The Road West

The journey westward was a road-tripper’s dream. Long stretches of highway sprawled before us, each mile bringing new scenery and the promise of discovery. The familiar comfort of good company turned the drive into an experience worth savoring. Between swapping stories, singing along to our road-trip playlist, and marveling at the changing landscapes, the hours seemed to fly by.

North Carolina's rolling hills and the boarder mountains gradually gave way to the flatlands of Tennessee and the open expanses of the Mississippi Delta. As we crossed state lines, we felt the pull of adventure strengthen. The thought of standing beneath an Arkansas sky, engulfed in the shadow of the moon, was enough to keep us energized despite the semi-long haul.

Arkansas Beckons

As we crossed the Mississippi River into Arkansas, the landscape began to shift. Finally, the flat plains gave way to the rugged terrain of the Ozarks, and we felt a renewed sense of anticipation. The closer we got to our destination, the more we noticed other eclipse chasers on the road—RVs packed with telescopes, car trunks brimming with gear, and families buzzing with excitement.

The road signs for our targeted viewing area brought relief and exhilaration in equal measure. We had made it this far, and now the real adventure could begin. The Arkansas wilderness stretched out before us, promising both the solitude we craved and the perfect backdrop for the celestial show we had come to see.

Following a Plan (Of Sorts)

The beauty of a road trip, especially one tied to a celestial event, lies in its blend of structure and spontaneity. While we had meticulously planned every detail leading up to this journey, we allowed room for flexibility when it came to choosing our ultimate destination. As we cruised through Arkansas, the decision loomed: which of our carefully scouted locations would host our eclipse experience?

The Art of Adapting

Our planning phase had armed us with an arsenal of potential viewing spots, thanks to tools like PhotoPills and All Trails. From high peaks with expansive vistas to secluded riverbanks bathed in natural beauty, we had options aplenty. Yet, as we approached the heart of the Ozarks, the fluid nature of the trip began to take over.

Weather reports, real-time conditions, and gut instincts guided our choices as much as our research had. One stop would possibly lead us to discover a local tip about an even better vantage point; another may reveal an unexpected challenge, like a blocked trail or overcrowding. The plan was flexible, and our adventure unfolded organically.

Trusting Technology and Serendipity

We leaned heavily on technology to validate our final decisions. PhotoPills continued to be our guiding star, overlaying the path of totality on real-world maps to ensure we’d maximize our experience. The app’s augmented reality feature allowed us to visualize exactly how the eclipse would move across the sky from each potential location.

At the same time, serendipity played its part. A fellow outdoorsman’s youtube video led us to check out a specific wilderness and to follow a particular service road. Following it, we stumbled upon a clearing that boasted a panoramic view of the sky, free from light pollution and with just enough elevation to check every box on our list. However, we knew not too many miles ahead loomed a somewhat gentle giant that marked our true destination.

Finalizing the Landing Zone

By the time we settled on our first stop, it felt less like a choice and more like destiny. Nestled within the Ouachita National Forest, our chosen location offered everything we had hoped for: unobstructed views, tranquility, and a sense of connection to the vastness of nature. The effort and uncertainty that went into finding it only made the moment more meaningful.

Forked Mountain — The Perfect Choice

Sometimes, the universe aligns in more ways than one. For this journey, it led us to Forked Mountain in the Flatside Wilderness of the Ouachita National Forest. After much deliberation and scouting, this rugged peak emerged as our ultimate destination to witness the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse.

Forked Mountain: A Hidden Gem

Rising 1,350 feet above its surroundings, Forked Mountain offers a commanding view of the Flatside Wilderness, a lesser-known treasure within the Ouachita National Forest. Nestled on the northwest border of this wilderness area, the mountain is renowned for its challenging terrain. Steep inclines and massive boulders dot the trail, making the hike to its summit both a test of endurance and a thrilling adventure.

The reward? Sweeping vistas of the Ouachita National Forest, where rolling hills and unbroken wilderness stretch as far as the eye can see. This breathtaking panorama was precisely what we were searching for—a location that combined natural beauty, tranquility, and an uninterrupted sky.

Adding to its allure is Forked Mountain Falls, a cascading feature that graces the wilderness with its serene sound and visual charm. Though not the focus of our trip, this hidden gem became a delightful side note to an already extraordinary adventure.

The Ouachita National Forest: A Living Legacy

The Ouachita National Forest, the oldest in the southern United States, spans a vast area of Arkansas and Oklahoma. Its location within the U.S. Interior Highlands makes it a unique and diverse region, offering everything from dense forests and clear streams to rugged peaks like Forked Mountain.

The Flatside Wilderness, a 9,507-acre expanse within the forest, is a haven for those seeking solitude and a deep connection to nature. One of the greatest perks of this area is its open camping policy—you can pitch a tent just about anywhere. This freedom allowed us to select a campsite that perfectly suited our needs: close to the trailhead, secluded, and with a clear view of the sky.

Why Forked Mountain Was Perfect

Forked Mountain wasn’t just another stop on our journey; it was the culmination of our meticulous planning and our desire to experience the eclipse in its fullest glory. Its elevation provided an ideal vantage point, free from obstructions, while the surrounding wilderness offered peace and isolation—exactly what we were hoping for after experiencing the bustling crowds of the 2017 eclipse.

The Approach

As we rolled up the winding dirt road, a ridge appeared, cloaked in forest and kissed by the fading sunlight. It was a scene so stunning that we were tempted to stop and set up camp right there. But fate had other plans: another camper had already claimed the prime spot, their tent nestled along the road, commanding the ideal view. With a mix of disappointment and determination, we pushed on, and soon, Forked Mountain came into view.

At first, it was a distant silhouette, its jagged peak breaking through the treetops like an ancient sentinel. Then, as the road dipped and twisted, it vanished momentarily, teasing us with its fleeting presence. Finally, we emerged into a clearing just as the sun began its descent. Forked Mountain stood before us, bathed in hues of purple and red, its rugged form illuminated by the day’s last light. The sight was breathtaking—a masterpiece of nature framed by the rolling hills and open skies of Arkansas.

The Ascent

From this clearing, we turned onto Forked Mountain Road at an antiqued cemetery, a rough gravel track that led us closer to our destination. It wasn’t long before the 4Runner earned its keep. The terrain demanded four-wheel drive as the road became steeper, rockier, and less forgiving. With every climb, we felt the thrill of venturing deeper into the wilderness, away from the world and into Forked Mountain’s remote embrace.

Passing a small, quiet cemetery perched on a hill, we were struck by the juxtaposition of history and nature. The final resting place of souls long gone sat in the shadow of this towering mountain, a reminder of the timelessness of the land we were exploring.

The last stretch of the road was an adventure in itself, with tight turns and challenging climbs that tested both our vehicle and our nerves. But when we finally arrived at the mountain’s base, our efforts were rewarded tenfold. The area was remote—truly remote. No signs of other campers, no hum of any roads. Just us, the wilderness, and the towering presence of Forked Mountain above.

Campsite #1

Our campsite for the night was nothing short of spectacular. Surrounded by full-growth fields and the towering mountain, we felt both dwarfed and cradled by the natural world. As darkness fell and the stars began to peek through the sky, the anticipation of the eclipse mingled with the satisfaction of having found a place so perfectly suited to this extraordinary moment.

The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or the distant call of a night bird. This was it—the kind of remote beauty we had been searching for. 

As we settled into our campsite, the magic of the Ouachitas began to take hold. The air was crisp, the forest alive with the hum of nature, and the anticipation of what was to come added a thrilling undercurrent to the serenity. The star show was indescribable as we settled into the back of the 4Runner. The next morning would bring the culmination of our journey, but for now, we settled into the peace of the wilderness, the shadow of Forked Mountain looming protectively over us as we drifted to sleep.

The following morning we scouted the mountain itself for the best way up. And a rock scramble it was! But the view, immaculate to say the least! Rather than climb to the tip top, where knew some folks would probably migrate to, we settled for a cozy spot ¾ of the way up on a particularly beautiful cliff side.

Once we staked out a good viewing point, we knew our adventures had just begun; for now it was time to head north, back up to and across the great Interstate 40, for some epic trouting! Waders wadded and rods nestled in back, we skedaddled towards some famed waters.

Stopping by a Legendary Stretch of Trout Water

A Night on a Farm by the Little Red River – A Super Star Show

Valley Farms in Heber Springs turned out to be the hidden gem of our adventure. Tucked away near the Little Red River, this idyllic spot was the perfect blend of rustic charm and natural splendor. Our hosts, Orval and his wife, were the epitome of southern hospitality, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived.

The Ultimate Campsite

Due to an unexpected cancellation, we scored the jackpot of campsites—an exclusive river-side spot at the back of the farm. Nestled against the tranquil waters, it offered everything we could have hoped for: privacy, a stunning view, and even a personal dock that stretched into the gentle current of the river. It was as if the universe had conspired to give us this little slice of paradise.

The serenity of the farm was magnified by the quiet atmosphere. Thanks to the great weather ploy, many campers had canceled their plans, leaving the campground unusually peaceful. We had the place nearly to ourselves, with only the soft rustling of trees and the occasional chirp of crickets as our background music.

A Starry Spectacle

As night fell, the true magic of Valley Farms unfolded above us. With zero light pollution, the stars put on a show unlike anything we’d ever seen. The Milky Way spilled across the sky in dazzling clarity, while constellations danced in their celestial patterns. It was the kind of view that makes you pause and remember just how vast and wondrous the universe is.

Adding to the night’s charm, we gained a feathered friend—a wise old owl who hooted gently from a nearby tree. Its presence felt almost mythical, a fitting companion to the ethereal beauty surrounding us.

A Morning to Remember

The next morning, we were greeted by the first golden rays of the sun, the lovely owl once again, and the calming sounds of the farm waking up. Before we departed, we made sure to thank Orval and his wife for their incredible hospitality. Little did we know, they had one last surprise for us: a pair of custom solar glasses with “Arkansas 2024” stamped on the sides—a thoughtful and practical memento of the eclipse adventure we were about to witness.

Though we left Valley Farms feeling rejuvenated and grateful, there was a twinge of melancholy. Orval had shared with us how they had prepared for a bustling campground, expecting crowds of eclipse chasers. The cancellations were a tough blow for them, and while we were glad for the quiet, we couldn’t help but feel for our gracious hosts, who had so much riding on the event.

Ready for the Next Chapter

With our spirits high and our bellies full from a quick farm breakfast, we loaded up and set out, eager to see what the Little Red River had in store for us. It was 8 a.m., and the trout were calling—a new adventure awaited. But Valley Farms had left its mark, becoming one of those rare places that stays with you long after you’ve left its gates.

Trouting Legendary Waters and the Journey Back to Forked

The Little Red River didn’t disappoint—its legendary reputation as a trout haven was well-earned. The crisp, clear water was almost hypnotic, cool to the touch and teeming with life. It was the kind of place where you feel like time slows down, and the rhythm of the river becomes your own.

A Mixed Bag of Beauty and Concern

While the fishing was undeniably fantastic, with Al catching some stunning Arkansas rainbow trout, there was a bittersweet undertone to the experience. We learned of ongoing ecological issues affecting the water, which was deeply disheartening. The river’s beauty and bounty were in stark contrast to the challenges it faced, a reminder of the delicate balance nature requires. Still, the thrill of catch-and-release moments brought a smile to our faces and etched another great memory into our journey.

A Change in Plans

After soaking up the tranquility and reeling in some fish, we were ready to head back to our makeshift “base” at Forked Mountain. This time, however, we had a fresh plan in mind: camping directly by a beautiful river that snaked through the valley at the base of the mountain. The idea of sleeping under the stars, with the sound of the river as our lullaby, was too tempting to pass up.

A Quick Highway Jaunt and a Mystery Stop

With a bit of reluctance, we packed up our gear, bid farewell to the river, and hit the road. The drive was short but scenic, a peaceful transition back toward The Flatside Wilderness. But before we could settle in for another night of camping bliss, there was one stop we needed to make—something we’d been looking forward to all day.

What lay ahead was anyone’s guess, but that’s the beauty of an adventure like this. Each turn brings the promise of something new, and as we barreled down the highway, we felt the familiar thrill of anticipation building once again.

Stopping and Hiking Mount Nebo State Park

We decided to take a brief detour and check out Mount Nebo State Park. Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, this park turned out to be a hidden gem—offering some of the best panoramic views in the entire state of Arkansas.

A One-of-a-Kind State Park

Mount Nebo is known for its unique layout and jaw-dropping vistas. As soon as we arrived, we knew we were in for something special. The park sits atop a mountain with a variety of hiking trails that lead to stunning overlooks, all offering different perspectives of the surrounding Ouachita Mountain range. The natural beauty was undeniable—the lush, green hills, the crisp blue skies, and the peaceful silence that enveloped the area.

A Scenic Hike to Remember

We took one of the park’s more popular trails, the Rim Trail, which loops around the mountain’s peak and offers a series of breathtaking views. The hike itself wasn’t too difficult, but the scenery was something you’d expect to see in a travel magazine—verdant forests, craggy ridges, and far-reaching vistas that stretched for miles. At the summit, we were greeted with a stunning 360-degree view that gave us a sense of just how vast and unspoiled this part of Arkansas is.

The colors were vibrant—lush greens blending with shades of brown and gold, with the occasional splash of wildflowers along the trail. The temperature was just right for a hike, and the peaceful atmosphere made it feel like we had the entire place to ourselves.

A Perfect Break in the Journey

The stop at Mount Nebo was the perfect way to break up our travel. After a day of camping and fishing, this hike gave us a chance to stretch our legs, get some fresh air, and enjoy the beauty of nature in a totally different way. It felt like we were taking a deep breath, soaking in the awe-inspiring views, and preparing ourselves for the next chapter of our adventure.

As we reached the summit, we couldn’t help but smile. The sight of the vast Arkansas wilderness before us reminded us that we were exactly where we needed to be. We still had a journey ahead of us, but moments like these—spent exploring places like Mount Nebo—were what made the adventure truly unforgettable.

Now, the 35 minute haul back to Forked Moutain, our now home away from home; but to a new campsite we had staked out the day prior...

Eclipse Day: A Magical Event We Will Never Forget

Waking up by the pristine clear, green water, with the first rays of a beautiful sunrise creeping behind us, the excitement of the day ahead was palpable. We scarfed down breakfast, eager to begin our adventure. Today wasn’t just any day—it was the day of the eclipse, and we were ready to experience it in all its glory. We quickly packed up, and headed up to the first ridge, the one we had passed days before on our arrival. It seemed like the perfect spot to capture the sunrise, with Forked Mountain standing tall and proud in the foreground.

The Sunrise and Final Preparations

After riding up to the ridge, we took a moment to marvel at the early morning sky. The colors were absolutely stunning—an artist’s palette of soft oranges and pinks, slowly fading into the cool blues of the new day. The warm light started creeping over the mountainside, casting long shadows and making the scenery look even more dramatic. But, as beautiful as the sunrise was, it wasn’t the eclipse that we were here for. After soaking in the view for a while, we made our way back to our original campsite at the base of Forked Mountain to finalize our preparations.

Perfect Positioning

We had already scoped out our spot a few days earlier, ensuring we were in the ideal location to witness the eclipse. The knowledge we gained from planning—and from the magic of PhotoPills augmented reality—had given us the confidence that we were in the right place. I had studied the eclipse path for weeks, from my home in North Carolina, and my meticulous planning had paid off. Using the app, we were able to track the sun’s path across the sky, ensuring we would be positioned at just the right angle for the celestial show.

The spot required some moderate rock scrambling, and overcoming some pretty great heights. However, we had already been up a couple days before and were entirely confident in our capabilities. 

The excitement began to build as we loaded up our backpacks with gear, snacks, water, and solar glasses, and headed out for the final climb to our spot. There wasn’t an actual trail, but that didn’t stop us—we were seasoned adventurers, after all. We blazed our own path, pushing forward with a sense of purpose. As we neared the summit, we could feel the electric anticipation in the air, knowing that this moment was going to be something special.

A Magical Experience

As the minutes ticked down to the big event, we could feel the atmosphere change. There was a strange stillness in the air, a quiet anticipation that made everything seem a bit surreal. The world seemed to hold its breath. And then, it happened.

As the moon began to obscure the sun, the sky darkened and the temperature dropped. The eclipse was fully underway, and we were in the perfect spot to experience it in all its glory. The sunlight gradually began to dim, creating a breathtaking, ethereal atmosphere. The shadows stretched long, and the colors of the landscape became even more vivid as the world seemed to slow down. It was a magical experience—one that words can’t fully capture.

We had our cameras and drone ready to capture every moment. The photos we snapped were nothing short of stunning—especially the drone shots, which captured the world growing dim from a dramatic height. The eclipse truly felt like the day that had two sunsets. We marveled at the beauty of it all, knowing that we were witnessing something extraordinary—a rare, celestial event that would forever be etched in our memories.

As the eclipse came to an end and the sun began to emerge once more, we were in awe of how truly spectacular the experience had been. The photography was stellar, the atmosphere was electric, and the memories we created would last a lifetime. This wasn’t just an eclipse; it was a moment of magic, a once-in-a-lifetime event, and we had witnessed it in a way that few ever would.

The Near-Loss of the DJI

Just after the awe-inspiring eclipse, we decided to take our excitement to the next level with a drone flight around the entirety of Forked Mountain. The plan was simple—capture the full scope of the surrounding wilderness from above, with Forked Mountain proudly looming in the center of it all. What could possibly go wrong?

Well, as it turns out, plenty.

We launched the DJI with high hopes, watching as it soared gracefully above the treetops and circled around Forked Mountain. The view from the drone was nothing short of spectacular, giving us an entirely new perspective of the mountain and its surroundings. But then, just as we were reveling in the stunning footage, disaster struck.

The Signal Drop

Out of nowhere, the drone suddenly lost signal. One moment it was soaring smoothly through the sky, and the next, it was as if the connection to the earth had been severed. The DJI went into auto-mode, and we were left watching helplessly as it drifted away.

I’ll admit—panic set in. I could feel my heart race as I frantically checked the screen, hoping for some sign of recovery. The drone, however, had other plans. It wasn’t responding to any commands, and it continued to fly out of sight. We tried to track its movements, but it quickly disappeared into the vast expanse of Forked Mountain.

It felt like we were about to embark on a search mission that would involve scouring the mountainside for what could be hours, if not longer. I couldn’t help but think, “This is it. We’re going to lose our first drone, and we’re going to have to hike every inch of this mountain to find it…” The thought of losing the DJI—the trusty companion on many an adventure—was a bitter one.

The Prodigal Son Returns

But then, something miraculous happened.

As we stood there, nearly defeated by the thought of a long, drone-less hike, the DJI suddenly reappeared. Like a prodigal son returning home, the drone’s autopilot reestablished itself, and we could suddenly hear it buzzing as  it began flying back toward us. It was almost like it had heard our collective sigh of relief.

We watched, wide-eyed, as the drone smoothly reoriented itself and returned to our position, no worse for wear. There it was—gliding back into our grasp like nothing had happened. It was a moment of pure joy mixed with disbelief.

We couldn’t help but laugh at how close we had come to losing it, and how, in the end, the DJI had come through for us like a loyal friend.

A Lesson Learned

The whole experience was a wild ride, filled with tension and relief in equal measure. While we were thankful the drone had returned home safely, we couldn’t help but chuckle at the thought of what could have been—an epic tale of drone loss, only to be followed by a heroic recovery. But for now, we were just happy that Forked Mountain’s secrets would be shared with the world through the lens of our trusty DJI.

The lesson? Never take your drone's reliability for granted, and always be prepared for the unexpected.

Chasing the Last Arkansas Sunset of the Trip

Arkansas Forked Mountain Stars

If you've never experienced the beauty of a truly dark sky, Forked Mountain in Arkansas is the place to witness it. The stars here—oh, the stars—were simply unreal. As soon as the sun dipped below the horizon, the night sky came alive in a way that felt almost otherworldly. The area was far enough from any major cities that light pollution was nonexistent, and the Milky Way was a sharp, stunning presence in the night sky.

It was early April, so while the temperatures were cool, they were far from freezing. The crisp air was perfect for hours of uninterrupted star-gazing. We bundled up in layers, leaned back, and just let the night sky wash over us. Whether sitting by the fire or lying on the cool grass, we felt like we could see every star in the galaxy. It was the kind of sky that makes you feel small in the best way possible.

Shooting Stars and Celestial Wonders

What made the night even more magical were the shooting stars—yes, shooting stars! Not just one or two, but several. We actually managed to catch two of them on camera, streaking across the sky in bright, fiery arcs. It was a photographer’s dream, and it felt like the universe was offering up an encore after the eclipse. The moments passed quickly, but the memory of watching these fleeting meteors with nothing but the quiet hum of nature around us will stay with us forever.

The best shots, though, were the ones we captured with Forked Mountain itself as the backdrop. The mountain’s jagged silhouette against the blanket of stars added a touch of drama to every shot. It was like the mountain was holding its own vigil with us, quietly watching over the scene. There was no rush, no distractions—just the vastness of the night and the occasional crunch of gravel or grass under boot as we moved to find the perfect angle.

A Night to Remember

As the hours ticked by, the only sounds were the wind whispering through the trees, the crackle of a soothing fire, and the distant hoot of an owl. We felt as if we were in a place apart from the world, disconnected from everything but the stars and the mountain itself.

That night under the Arkansas sky was a reminder of how magnificent the natural world can be, and how humbling it is to be a part of it. The stars over Forked Mountain weren’t just a spectacle; they were a story, a story that will live on in our hearts and memories every time we look up at the sky. Just as we were settling into camp for the evening, we could see a storm off in the distance beyond the great silhouette of Forked brewing and steeping, inching ever closer.

Rivers of The Flatside Wilderness of the Ouachita Mountains/Heading Home

Waking up on our last day, we couldn't resist one final adventure—just one last exploration of the river we had camped beside. The night had brought some unexpected weather, with rain coming down hard enough to turn our tent into a makeshift waterpark. Our gear was soaked, and the sound of dripping water around us was a not-so-welcome reminder of nature's unpredictability; however, we did remain cozy and dry in the back of our rig. Still, despite the soggy setback, our spirits remained unshaken. We were still buzzing from the magic of the trip. There was no way a little water could dampen our mood.

The journey up until that point had been the definition of epic. Every moment felt perfectly aligned, like the universe was in tune with our adventure. Not a single mishap—just pure adventure, and we couldn’t have asked for more (except maybe a longer stay!). The memories we made—watching eclipses, star-gazing under an unpolluted sky, and exploring new places—were enough to carry us through even the wettest of mornings.

A Surprise at the Finish Line

As we packed up and began to make our way back, heading for the hills of home, we couldn't help but reflect on what we had accomplished. When we finally arrived back at the Lake Hickory cottage, nestled in the foothills of Carolina, we were pleasantly shocked by the cost of our epic journey. Between gas, food, and camping fees, we had only spent around $325. For such an extraordinary trip, that was a steal. It was the perfect reminder that an adventure doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag to be meaningful or unforgettable.

The drive back was just as smooth as the journey there—straight down the good old Interstate 40, with the hum of the road guiding us home. As we pulled into the driveway and unpacked our bags, we both knew that this trip would go down as one of our greatest adventures. An adventure not just through the Ouachita Mountains, but through memories and moments that would stay with us forever.

The Perfect End to the Perfect Adventure

So, there we were—happy, a little tired, but incredibly proud. This wasn’t just a trip. It was a journey that brought us closer to the things that really matter: the simple beauty of nature, the thrill of exploration, and the joy of sharing it all with a great companion. As we sat down with a well-earned drink, watching the Carolina sunset, we couldn’t help but smile. This was a trip that had everything—perfectly epic, perfectly planned, and perfectly us. The adventure of a lifetime, and one we’d surely remember for years to come.

What an epic Aperture Abenteuer!