Somewhere near the edge of the Ozark Mountains in the National Forest, there is a legend or folklore about a naked man named Joe who used to hang out around the bluffs in the buff. The mountain became known as Naked Joe Mountain.

Historically speaking, many years ago in a small town situated between Norfork and Calico Rock, Arkansas there was a town named Old Naked Joe that was wanting to build their own post office. However, townfolks in this rural small community objected to the town's name so they renamed it, Old Joe, instead. The post office was eventually built and was given the name Old Joe post office, the bad news is, it's no longer there.

Hiker with backpack standing on top of a mountain cliff and enjoying sunset
IoanaCatalinaE
loading...

The origins of Old Naked Joe Mountain started long ago when it was rumored that an old man named Joe lived at the top of the mountain and he loved running around naked on top of the mountain. However, many people believe it may have gotten its name from a tornado that rolled through the town and cleared out a lot of trees and brush at the top of the mountain thus giving the appearance of a balding mountainside. And so, maybe that's why the mountain was renamed Naked Joe Mountain.

NirutiStock
NirutiStock
loading...

Well, the town is still there today but to this day the mystery remains on how it really got its name. Not many people live there because of its isolated location however, hikers do love hiking the area because of the rugged terrain and beautiful scenery. There's even a hiking trail that leads up to the top of Old Naked Joe Mountain where at the peak it's now been named Naked Joe Knob, need I say more.

Google Maps
Google Maps
loading...

Naked Joe Mountain is located on Highway 5, between Norfork and Calico Rock. According to Google maps the trip is approximately 4 hours and 32 minutes from Texarkana.

Feel like getting naked? I'm sorry, I just couldn't resist.

See the Must-Drive Roads in Every State

More From Kicker 102.5