July 26 – After starting the day with Karen and Micah’s family (who had power at their house but still not at their temple), we continued east to Arkansas to Petit Jean State Park. Much of the infrastructure in this park, Arkansas’s first, is thanks to CCC efforts. Despite the rain, we decided to pursue the Seven Hollows Trail, a 4.5 mile loop through sandstone canyons and forested terrain. We paused under the Natural Bridge for a snack and a photo. Some of the rock formations on the trail are known as Turtle Rocks, but we were delighted to see a real turtle.

We dined at the Mather Lodge (yet another rustic stone lodge), enjoying Possum Pie for dessert and majestic views throughout the meal. Check out the sunset from the patio outside the lodge!

Day 28: Tulsa OK to Petit Jean State Park AR – 224 miles.