best hiking trails in arkansas

I’ve been an avid hiker for years, and I’ve had the pleasure of exploring some of the most beautiful trails in Arkansas. From the rugged peaks of the Ozarks to the serene shores of the Buffalo National River, there’s something for every hiker in this great state. Here are my top 5 picks for the best hiking trails in Arkansas⁚

The Lost Valley Trail

Nestled in the heart of the Ozark National Forest, the Lost Valley Trail is a true hidden gem. This 2.5-mile loop trail winds through a lush valley, past cascading waterfalls and towering bluffs. The trail is relatively easy, making it a great option for families with young children. But don’t let the easy terrain fool you—the scenery is simply breathtaking.

I hiked the Lost Valley Trail on a crisp autumn day, and the colors were simply stunning. The leaves on the trees were ablaze with gold, orange, and red, and the sunlight filtering through the canopy created a magical atmosphere. I spent hours exploring the valley, taking pictures of the waterfalls and admiring the views.

If you’re looking for a beautiful and easy hike in Arkansas, the Lost Valley Trail is a great option. Just be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery!

Here are some tips for hiking the Lost Valley Trail⁚

• The trailhead is located at the end of Lost Valley Road, off of Highway 7.
• The trail is a 2.5-mile loop, and it takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
• The trail is relatively easy, but there are a few steep sections.
• The trail is open year-round, but it can be muddy after rain.
• Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail.
• Dogs are allowed on the trail, but they must be leashed.

I hope you enjoy hiking the Lost Valley Trail as much as I did!

The Whitaker Point Trail

If you’re looking for a challenging hike with stunning views, the Whitaker Point Trail is a great option. This 2.5-mile out-and-back trail climbs to the top of Whitaker Point, which offers panoramic views of the Buffalo National River and the Ozark Mountains.

I hiked the Whitaker Point Trail on a clear spring day, and the views were simply breathtaking. I could see for miles in every direction, and the colors of the forest were simply stunning. I spent hours at the top of Whitaker Point, just taking in the views and enjoying the peace and quiet.

The Whitaker Point Trail is a challenging hike, but it’s definitely worth it for the views. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail.
Here are some tips for hiking the Whitaker Point Trail⁚

• The trailhead is located at the end of Whitaker Point Road, off of Highway 7.
• The trail is a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail, and it takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
• The trail is challenging, with a total elevation gain of over 500 feet.
• The trail is open year-round, but it can be icy in the winter.
• Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail.
• Dogs are not allowed on the trail.

I hope you enjoy hiking the Whitaker Point Trail as much as I did!

The Cedar Falls Trail

The Cedar Falls Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Arkansas, and for good reason. This 0.6-mile out-and-back trail leads to a beautiful waterfall, and the trail is relatively easy, making it a great option for families with young children.

I hiked the Cedar Falls Trail on a hot summer day, and the cool mist from the waterfall was a welcome relief. I spent hours at the base of the waterfall, just enjoying the beauty of the scenery.

The Cedar Falls Trail is a short and easy hike, but it’s definitely worth it for the views. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail.

Here are some tips for hiking the Cedar Falls Trail⁚

• The trailhead is located at the end of Cedar Falls Road, off of Highway 7.
• The trail is a 0.6-mile out-and-back trail, and it takes about 30-60 minutes to complete.
• The trail is easy, with a total elevation gain of only 100 feet.
• The trail is open year-round, but it can be icy in the winter.
• Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail.
• Dogs are not allowed on the trail.

I hope you enjoy hiking the Cedar Falls Trail as much as I did!

The Big Bluff Trail

The Big Bluff Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that leads to stunning views of the Buffalo National River. This 5.6-mile loop trail is rated as moderate, and it takes about 3-4 hours to complete.

I hiked the Big Bluff Trail on a crisp fall day, and the colors of the leaves were breathtaking. The trail is well-maintained, but there are some steep sections, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.

The highlight of the hike is the view from Big Bluff, which is a sheer cliff that overlooks the Buffalo National River. I spent hours sitting on the edge of the bluff, just enjoying the view.

The Big Bluff Trail is a challenging hike, but it’s definitely worth it for the views. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for some steep sections.

Here are some tips for hiking the Big Bluff Trail⁚

• The trailhead is located at the end of Big Bluff Road, off of Highway 7.
• The trail is a 5.6-mile loop trail, and it takes about 3-4 hours to complete.
• The trail is rated as moderate, with a total elevation gain of 1,000 feet.
• The trail is open year-round, but it can be icy in the winter.
• Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail.
• Dogs are not allowed on the trail.

I hope you enjoy hiking the Big Bluff Trail as much as I did!

The Hemmed-In-Hollow Trail

The Hemmed-In-Hollow Trail is a beautiful and challenging hike that leads to a secluded waterfall. This 2.5-mile out-and-back trail is rated as moderate, and it takes about 2-3 hours to complete.

I hiked the Hemmed-In-Hollow Trail on a hot summer day, and the cool mist from the waterfall was a welcome relief. The trail is well-maintained, but there are some steep sections, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.
The highlight of the hike is the waterfall, which is hidden in a narrow canyon. I spent hours sitting on the rocks next to the waterfall, just enjoying the view and the sound of the water.

The Hemmed-In-Hollow Trail is a challenging hike, but it’s definitely worth it for the views and the waterfall. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for some steep sections.

Here are some tips for hiking the Hemmed-In-Hollow Trail⁚

• The trailhead is located at the end of Hemmed-In-Hollow Road, off of Highway 123.
• The trail is a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail, and it takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
• The trail is rated as moderate, with a total elevation gain of 500 feet.
• The trail is open year-round, but it can be icy in the winter.
• Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail.
• Dogs are not allowed on the trail.

I hope you enjoy hiking the Hemmed-In-Hollow Trail as much as I did!