6th Annual Spring Backpacking Trip

2025 Z.A.C Outdoors Spring Hike: Spring Creek Trailhead to Matney Knob Camp

Our 2025 Z.A.C Outdoors Spring Hike was an unforgettable adventure. This year’s hike took us from the Spring Creek Trailhead to Matney Knob Camp, covering 31 miles over several days of breathtaking views, challenging trails, and memorable moments. Here's a look back at our journey.

Night Before the Hike: Settling In

The adventure began the night before the hike. We all arrived at the Spring Creek Trailhead and set up camp. Jonny, Marina, and I settled in and built a cozy fire. As the flames flickered, we met up with Mike, a fishing charter captain from Florida who recently moved to Arkansas. Tammy showed up some time in the night and we met her in the morning.

First Morning: Getting Started

The first morning was all about the preparations. We weighed our bags and double-checked our gear. We were joined by Zion and Haleigh, ready to hit the trail with us. Seth and Amanda had a slower start and would catch up with us later in the day.

With our bags packed and spirits high, we began our first day of hiking.

First Day: 9 Miles to Moccasin Springs Trailhead

Our first leg of the hike took us 9 miles to Moccasin Springs Trailhead. However, the day didn’t go as smoothly as we had hoped. Marina twisted her ankle really badly and was struggling. Several of the guys helped carry her bag, rotating every few miles to make the load a bit lighter.

As we continued on the trail, we passed a group of cowboys on horseback, one of whom had hooks for hands. It was definitely a unique and memorable moment!

First Night: Paradise at Moccasin Springs

That evening, we camped at Moccasin Springs Trailhead in a beautiful spot we affectionately called "Paradise." We were joined by Corey, who was hiking with us the following day. Seth and Amanda, who had started late, ended up taking the wrong direction and didn’t arrive at camp until after dark.

It’s a Z.A.C Outdoors tradition to pack in frozen steak on the first day, so we cooked up some amazing steaks for dinner. Mike had a bit of a mishap, losing his mac and cheese, only to find it the next morning under his tent. Typical Mike, right?

Second Morning: Saying Goodbye to Some Friends

After breakfast, we packed up and prepared to hit the trail again. Seth and Amanda decided to call it quits after a tough first day. Marina’s ankle wasn’t getting any better, so she too decided to head home. It was hard saying goodbye to friends, but we were determined to continue our hike.

Second Day: 13 Miles to the Gravel Parking Lot

The second day of the hike was a tough one, covering 13 miles to a gravel parking lot where Kris had parked. It wasn’t an official trailhead, but it was our checkpoint for the day. 

Around mile 4 or 5, Corey was ready to set up camp and turn back the next day. We convinced him to keep hiking, though I think by the end of the day, he might have regretted that decision! It was a tough day, but the camaraderie and support kept us going.

Last Night: Pine Forest Camp

We finally arrived at camp after a long day, a pine forest with a creek nearby. The beauty of the spot made it all worth it. A few of the hikers were able to take a quick, cold bath in the creek, which was refreshing but definitely a bit chilly!

Third Morning: A Fond Farewell

The next morning, we packed up and said goodbye to Kris and Corey, who were heading home. The rest of us continued on, ready to finish the hike.

Last Day: 8 Miles to Matney Knob Trailhead

On the final day of our hike, we completed the last 8 miles to Matney Knob Trailhead. The trail led us to a stunning outlook over the White River, a perfect spot to take in the views and reflect on the journey we had just completed.

End: The Brewery Celebration

After finishing our hike, we all gathered at the Norfork Brewery to celebrate our accomplishment. We enjoyed some well-deserved beer, pizza, and trivia. It was the perfect way to unwind and bond with both old friends and new.

Final Thoughts

This hike was about more than just the miles. It was about bonding with friends, making new ones, and pushing through challenges together. We had an amazing time, and I couldn't have asked for a better group of people to hike with.

Thank you everyone for showing up! Tammy, Mike, and Eric, it was a blast to meet you and hopefully see you again! Seth, Amanda, and Kris you guys killed it for first timers and can not wait to see you at the next hike! 

Thank you Corey and Seth for the amazing videos and photos! You guys always kill it with your media! Make sure to check out their channels: Blind Spot Adventures and Dirt Road Discoveries
Here’s to more Z.A.C Outdoors adventures in the future!