Due to continued high water in Hopkins Prairie a high-water route has been designated to bypass the wet area utilizing two graded forest roads.  This high-water route is signed and blazed and will remain in effect until the water level in Hopkins Prairie drops significantly or until a new trail can be built on higher ground. 

North-bound hikers:  At the trail crossing of FR 86 turn west (left) and follow FR 86 for 2.2 miles.  At the junction with FR 65 turn north (right) and follow FR 65 1.9 miles to rejoin the FNST just south of FR 90.
 

South-bound hikers:  At the trail crossing of FR 65 turn south (right) and follow FR 65 for 1.9 miles.  At the junction with FR 86 turn east (left) and follow FR 86 2.2 miles to rejoin the FNST south of Hopkins Prairie campground.
 

During periods of high water, thru-hikers may count this official alternate route as the designated route of the FNST.

FTA Staff @ April 6, 2006