The Ouachita National Recreation Trail is a 223-mile back country trail, running east and west the length of the Ouachita Mountains. More commonly referred to as the "Ouachita Trail", it lies primarily within the Ouachita National Forest. Most of the trail (177 miles) is in Arkansas, with forty-six miles extending into Oklahoma. Both ends of the trail are in state parks. The eastern terminus is in Pinnacle Mountain State Park, west of Little Rock (Pulaski County); the western terminus is in Talimena State Park, Oklahoma.

Terrain across the length of the trail is rugged, providing a variety of hiking experiences and scenic opportunities. Elevation ranges from a high point of 2610' above seal level on Rich Mountain, near the Arkansas/Oklahoma state line, to a low of approximately 300' near Lake Maumelle. Climbs between 1000' and 1500' are common. Two designated wilderness areas enhance enjoyment of the trail.

Originally intended as a foot trail, the entire length is open to both day hikers and backpackers. Since 2000, mountain bikers have been given access to western portions of the trail, currently about 140 miles, and have joined other trail users as good stewards of the trail. In addition to the state parks, forest service recreation areas provide campground facilities along the trail.

There are now 21 shelters along the trail. The nine older style shelters were built by the Forest Service in the eastern side of the trail. The 12 new shelters were built by FoOT volunteers in the western end of the trail. All the new shelters have a covered 'porch', with gravel flooring, and other amenities. The nine older shelters are in the process of being upgraded to reflect the new style, with the first one being completed in 2018.