Arkansas' Other Trails: Trail of Tears

After covering beer and wine trails, it is time to discuss a much older trail with a tragic history; the Trail of Tears.  The Trail of Tears refers to the routes taken during the forced relocation of Native Americans from some southeastern states to Oklahoma.  Tens of thousands were forced from their homes and many didn't survive the trip west.  As you can see on the map below, several routes passed through Arkansas.

Some sections of the Trail of Tears are preserved as trails today in places like Village Creek State Park and the Trail of Tears park at UALR (which is part of the Coleman Creek Greenway).  The Tsa La Gi trail in Fayetteville follows the approximate route of the trail as well.  The Fort Smith National Historic site was part of the water route and has exhibits and information on the routes.  Visiting any of these locations is a great way to learn some history while you walk, hike, or bike.  The Trail also has lots of potential to be expanded and doing so would benefit the public in multiple ways.     

I'm sure I'm missing some other sections as well, so let me know about it in the comments below.

Tsa La Gi Trail in Fayetteville

Map via http://www.arkansasheritagetrails.com/tears/