This is one of a series (in progress) of geocaches tracing the channel of Bear Creek from beginning to end.
Bear Creek is a natural spring which flows through the beautiful Ozark Mountains of Boone County, Arkansas. Originating in the unincorporated community of Bear Creek Springs, Bear Creek flows in a northeasterly direction, ultimately emptying into Bull Shoals Lake.
The Myrtle Train Trestle is an active train trestle which crosses Bear Creek. The approximately 640 foot trestle is utilized by the Missouri & Northern Arkansas Railroad (MNA) (not to be confused with the defunct Missouri & North Arkansas Railroad (M&NA)). According to the Union Pacific website:
“The MNA route is a part of the former Missouri Pacific main line between Kansas City, MO and Memphis, TN. The St. Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern first opened a branch from Diaz Junction to Batesville, AR in 1883. The White River Railway began construction from Batesville to Cartage [sic], MO in 1902. It was not until 1905 that the line was completed. It was then combined with the MP’s Lexington & Southern branch to reach Kansas City. Passenger service ended in 1960. MNA purchased the line between Bergman and Guion, AR (102 miles), from UP and the balance of the former UP lines are leased. MNA started service on December 13, 1992.”
Author unknown. (Publication date unknown). Missouri & Northern
Arkansas Railroad MNA #508. Union Pacific Building America. https://www.up.com/customers/shortline/lines/mna/index.htm
This area is also the confluence of Bear Creek with Cheatham Creek. Cheatham Creek runs from near Bergman to Myrtle, merging with Bear Creek just past the Myrtle Train Trestle and Hopewell Road.
Parking is available on nearby gravel bars on either side of the creek. Bear Creek under the trestle is a popular swimming hole for locals and can be very crowded during the warmer months. So, watch out for muggles! You are looking for a camo pill bottle large enough to contain a few small items. Bring your own pen. This area is prone to flooding during heavy rain periods, so if you remove the container from its current position, please make sure it is secure when you replace it. Cell phone services can be spotty in this area, so downloading the coordinates may be advised.