Lee Creek in Devil’s Den State Park | Photo by Mark Collins; licensed under Creative Commons.
A couple hiking with their two children in Devil’s Den State Park were found dead on a wooded trail in July. The incident sparked conversations about hiking safety and park security in Northwest Arkansas. Now, outdoor recreation leaders are reflecting on hiking safety, and, in a separate action, state legislators have approved measures to increase security.
Listen to reporter Casey Mann discuss her reporting process with KUAF news director Matthew Moore. This collaboration is part of a partnership aimed at sharing high-quality student journalism with local audiences and helping KUAF tell additional stories that connect to the community. Here’s the story on hiking safety in Northwest Arkansas, featuring reflections on staying safe while in the woods.
Rick Spicer, co-owner of Pack Rat Outdoor Center and a wilderness first responder, said Fayetteville’s outdoor recreation community has been discussing the incident from a place of mourning and support rather than fear.
“As awful as that situation was, fortunately, we generally live in a safe community,” Spicer said. “I think a lot of people looked at it like, this is terrible, and it’s not to be taken lightly, but nonetheless, it’s rare… I’m not going to let fear keep me from enjoying and doing the things I love.”
Devil’s Den, located in West Fork, Arkansas, covers approximately 2,500 acres of land. It is known for its unique rock formations, caverns and waterfalls.
Audio: Listen to reporter Casey Mann discuss safety concerns on trails in Arkansas.
At the University of Arkansas, UREC Outdoors Assistant Director Katherine Miller said the incident has not caused noticeable concern among students and outdoor community leaders.
Despite students’ lack of hesitation, Miller said it is always important to remain aware when hiking and prepare beforehand, citing the commonly referenced 10 essentials for hiking.
“Know where you’re going and what trails you’re doing,” she said. “Tell your friends where you’re going… If I don’t reach out, you know, check in on me.”
Spicer echoed the need for awareness.
“We often go to wild places and into nature so that we can unwind and relax, and focus on wildlife and the natural beauty of those places,” he said. “So on one hand, it’s unfortunate that you have to have that awareness, but at the same time, I think it’s a healthy habit.”
He emphasized the importance of physical preparedness as well as mental awareness.
Spicer recommends hikers always carry items such as navigation equipment, proper clothing and food. He also noted that Pack Rat has seen an increase in purchases of spray deterrents, such as mace and bear spray, even before Arkansas’ recent bear attacks.
Spray deterrents offer a relatively affordable, safe and non-lethal option for hikers looking to protect themselves, Spicer said.
“Some people will consider the idea of carrying a firearm or something like that,” he said. “If you’re going to carry a tool like that, it’s really important that you spend a lot of time practicing with it, because if you’re not competent, number one, it can be very dangerous because accidents can happen. But number two, it’s easier for tools like that to be used against you if they’re taken away.”
Arkansas law allows individual to carry a concealed handgun in state parks if they are in possession of their firearm license and a valid photo ID. Some park buildings do not allow concealed carry.
The state is also taking steps to strengthen park safety. In September, the Arkansas Legislative Council’s personnel subcommittee approved a request from the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism to create seven additional security positions, including park sergeants and rangers.
Shea Lewis, Arkansas State Parks director and parks department secretary, said in the meeting that the positions allow the department to meet law enforcement needs throughout the state park system.
Rep. Mary Bentley (R-District 54) requested an update on the Devil’s Den incident at the meeting; however, the park service is under a “gag order” by Joanna Taylor, a judge in Washington County, Arkansas, preventing pretrial public statements about the case. The request for increased security has not been tied to the incident.
Bentley said she loves Arkansas parks and spoke to local rangers about their needs after the Devil’s Den incident.
“I think everybody should feel that when they come there, their families will be safe and secure on our trails without having to worry about something happening to their family, especially young moms and kids,” she said.
Still, Spicer said much of trail safety comes from the community itself.
“I think sometimes it just comes down to being a good human,” he said. “One of the first rules you talk about [as a wilderness first responder] is don’t make more victims. Don’t just rush into a situation… but extend a helping hand whenever you can.”
Spicer added that he urges awareness, not fear.
“I don’t want people to be scared to go outside,” he said.