Whether you prefer a grueling, challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, Arkansas has a trail that will fit your hiking goals. With trails featuring everything from stunning wildflowers to waterfall views and everything in between, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beauty of Arkansas.
Arkansas Hiking Trails
The list of Arkansas hiking trails is numerous, but the following is a selection of trails that can be found in each region of the state.
Northwest Region
- Ozark Highland Trail-This is an easy to difficult trail located in the Ozark National Forest that allows camping and dogs. Often rated one of the top hiking trails in the country, the Ozark Highland Trail is 165 miles long. It meanders through some of the most rugged terrain in the state along parts of the trail, so hikers should keep their fitness level in mind when planning which legs of the trail they'll hike.
- Sylamore Creek Trail-This is another trail located in the Ozark National Forest that allows camping and dogs. A relatively short trail of approximately 23 miles, it winds along a creek offering breathtaking views. It features a waterfall and is accessible year-round.
- Redding/Spy Rock Loop-If you want to experience waterfalls in the Ozark National Forest, this 8.3 mile, intermediate trail is a good choice. Camping and dogs are allowed. The trail is generally heavily trafficked, and is moderately difficult.
- Buffalo River Trail-Located along the Buffalo National River, this moderate, 10.8-mile trail allows camping but no dogs. It's moderately trafficked, and is rated as difficult, with a nearly 1,800-foot elevation gain. It features a river and is an excellent place for bird watching.
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Yellow Rock Trail: Rated as moderately difficult, this 3-mile trail takes hikers along a 300-foot elevation to breathtaking views of the Lee Creek valley. The trail meanders through rock formations and cedar glades, and takes around 2 hours on average to hike.
- Whitaker Point Trail- This 2.9-mile trail near Pettigrew, Arkansas, is rated as moderately difficult and generally is heavily trafficked. It's accessible year-round, and features scenic waterfall views. If you enjoy hiking with your dog, this is a good option; dogs are welcome as long as they're leashed.
East Region
- Bear Creek Loop-Located in St. Francis National Forest, this 1-mile, easy trail offers beautiful views with little effort. The trail features abundant wildflowers and and is an excellent site for both hiking and birdwatching. Dogs are allowed, but must be leashed.
- Post Bayou Natural Trail: This 2.2-mile trail winds between Post Bayou and the Arkansas River. It's a good trail for all skill levels, with an elevation gain of about 16 feet. It's wheelchair and stroller-accessible, and is a good place for birdwatching and wildflower viewing.
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Delta View Trail-Located at Cane Creek State Park, Delta View Trail is a little more than 2 miles long and is rated easy to moderate, with gentle elevation changes. The trail is a good place to view wildflowers and take a nice, leisurely hike.
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Dancing Rabbit Trail-Located in Crowley's Ridge State Park, this easy to moderate trail is a little less than 2 miles long. With several interconnecting loops and two swinging bridges, you'll find this trail offers a fun and versatile adventure for those who want to take a pleasant afternoon hike.
Southwest Region
- Ouachita Trail-Located in Ouachita National Forest, this trail offers a wide range of hiking trails, from easy to difficult. The trail is 222 miles long, and depending upon the area in which you hike, you can see gorgeous views, springs, rock gardens, and more.
- Eagle Rock Loop-This is another trail located in Ouachita National Forest. It's rated easy to difficult and is more than 26 miles long. Camping, dogs, and horses are allowed on this trail.
- Black Fork Mountain Wilderness Trail-Also located in Ouachita National Forest, this moderate to difficult trail is a little more than 11 miles long and allows camping and dogs. The trail is known for its black bear population, as well.
River Valley Region
- Mt. Magazine Trail-Located in the Ozark National Forest, this 14-mile-long trail allows you access to the highest point in Arkansas. Camping and dogs are allowed, and there is bicycle access on a portion of the trail, as well.
Hiking Arkansas
The above is just a sampling of the Arkansas trails that are available to the public. With so many options available, you're sure to find the perfect trail for your interests and ability.
