6th Annual Hassey "Goat Vacation"

[Nanno]

We took it easy our first day in Arkansas. The lady at Lost Valley Canoe & Cabins was very helpful with trail suggestions and sent us to Whitaker Point, also known as Hawksbill Crag. It is one of the iconic hikes in the area but not very long or strenuous--perfect for warming up. We saddled the goats even though there was nothing to bring on such a short hike. We figured it would make them look a little more "legitimate" in case anyone gave us grief about bringing goats into the National Forest (we'd heard rumors that the park rangers might be uptight about them). 

Although devoid of any heart, this tree was still thriving with no more than a half-shell of outer bark to support it. Yes, I'm sticking my hand (and foot) through the tree and Sputnik thinks I'm a complete idiot. 
"I don't know her." 
   

"Aw, you do too know me, Sputnik. Just admit it and gimme some sugar."  
   

There were some cool alien rocks along the trail. Or maybe it's the fossilized tentacle from a giant squid. See the suction cups? 
   

Some of the rocks were anti-gravity! 
   

"What's over there?" Sputnik never did quite match my enthusiasm for this hike. Or maybe he didn't match my enthusiasm for Phil's camera. Either way, he appears very long-suffering. 
   

Fake Hawksbill Crag. Or maybe "practice" Hawksbill Crag. Either way, it's a nice place to take a brief pause before the real thing.