Arkansas
The Natural State
There are over 1,800 known hiking and trekking trails in Arkansas.
Most popular trails:
Pinnacle Mountain Summit Trail: This challenging 3.2-mile out-and-back trail takes you to the top of Pinnacle Mountain, the highest point in Arkansas.
Lost Valley Trail: This moderate 5.8-mile loop trail takes you through a scenic valley.
West Fork Trail: This moderate 4.4-mile loop trail takes you through a scenic canyon.
Ponca Wilderness Trail: This challenging 18.7-mile out-and-back trail takes you through a remote wilderness area.
Mount Magazine Summit Trail: This challenging 3.9-mile out-and-back trail takes you to the top of Mount Magazine, the highest point in Arkansas.
Ozark Highlands Trail: This 269-mile long trail is the longest continuous hiking trail in Arkansas. It is a challenging trail that crosses through the Ozark Mountains.
Buffalo National River: This national river has over 200 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The Ponca Wilderness Trail is a challenging 18.7-mile out-and-back trail that takes you through a remote wilderness area.
Ouachita National Forest: This national forest has over 800 miles of trails, including the West Fork Trail, which is a moderate 4.4-mile loop trail that takes you through a scenic canyon.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways: This national scenic riverways has over 250 miles of trails, including the Ponca Wilderness Trail.
Best trails for certain activities:
Bird watching: The Buffalo National River is a great place to go bird watching.
Camping: There are many campgrounds in Arkansas that offer hiking trails nearby.
Fishing: There are many rivers and lakes in Arkansas that are good for fishing.
Photography: The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is a popular spot for photographers.
Stargazing: The lack of light pollution in Arkansas makes it a great place for stargazing.
Most challenging trails:
The Ponca Wilderness Trail is a 18.7-mile out-and-back trail that takes you through a remote wilderness area. It is a challenging trail with steep climbs and rough terrain.
The Pinnacle Mountain Summit Trail is a 3.2-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to the top of Pinnacle Mountain, the highest point in Arkansas. It is a challenging trail with a steep climb.
The Mount Magazine Summit Trail is a 3.9-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to the top of Mount Magazine, the highest point in Arkansas. It is a challenging trail with a steep climb.
The Humpback Mountain Trail is a 9.8-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to the top of Humpback Mountain. It is a challenging trail with a steep climb.
The Kings River Falls Trail is a 10.6-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to Kings River Falls. It is a challenging trail with a steep climb.
These trails are not recommended for beginner hikers. They should only be attempted by experienced hikers who are in good physical condition.
Most scenic trails:
The Lost Valley Trail is a 5.8-mile loop trail that takes you through a scenic valley with lush forests and clear streams.
The West Fork Trail is a 4.4-mile loop trail that takes you through a scenic canyon.
The Buffalo National River is a national river with over 200 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The river is known for its clear waters and abundant wildlife.
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is a national scenic riverways with over 250 miles of trails, including the Ponca Wilderness Trail. The riverways are known for their scenic bluffs and forests.
Mount Magazine State Park is a state park with over 20 miles of trails, including the Mount Magazine Summit Trail. The park is known for its mountain views and abundant wildlife.
These trails offer stunning views of mountains, forests, rivers, and other natural features. They are a great way to experience the beauty of Arkansas.
Most family-friendly trails:
The Lost Valley Trail is a moderate trail that is suitable for families with children. It is a short trail with a relatively easy climb.
The Lake Fort Smith State Park Trail is a 1.5-mile loop trail that is suitable for families with children. It is an easy trail that is wheelchair accessible.
The Spring River Trail is a 2.5-mile loop trail that is suitable for families with children. It is an easy trail that is located near the Spring River.
The Petit Jean State Park Loop Trail is a 2.6-mile loop trail that is suitable for families with children. It is an easy trail that is located in Petit Jean State Park.
The Northwoods Trail is a 3-mile loop trail that is suitable for families with children. It is an easy trail that is located in Northwoods Park.
These trails are relatively short and easy, making them a good option for families with children. They are also located in scenic areas, making them a great way to enjoy the outdoors.
Most accessible trails:
The Ozark Highlands Trail is a 269-mile long trail that is fully accessible. It is a challenging trail that is accessible to people with disabilities.
The Arkansas River Trail is a 170-mile long trail that is partially accessible. It is a moderate trail that is accessible to people with disabilities in some sections.
The Buffalo National River has many accessible trails. These trails are located near the river and are accessible to people with disabilities.
The Ouachita National Forest has many accessible trails. These trails are located in the forest and are accessible to people with disabilities.
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways has many accessible trails. These trails are located in the riverways and are accessible to people with disabilities.
These trails are accessible to people with disabilities, making them a great option for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.
Where to get permits for trails:
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Permits are required for some trails in Arkansas. You can find more information about permits on the Arkansas State Parks website.
