Discover Sugar Loaf Mountain Island: A Hidden Hiking Gem in Arkansas

When it comes to American hiking destinations, Arkansas may not be the first location that springs to mind. However, for adventurers seeking to explore off the beaten path, the Natural State holds a surprising hidden gem filled with natural splendor.

Sugar Loaf Mountain Overview

Sugar Loaf Mountain Island is a unique and unforgettable hiking destination. This island features the only hiking trail on an island in all of Arkansas, making it an exceptional adventure. To reach this enchanting destination, visitors must navigate some water.

Situated in the middle of Greers Ferry Lake in the Ozarks, approximately 80 miles north of Little Rock, this island is accessible via the Sugar Loaf Shuttle from Fairfield Bay Marina. Furthermore, for those seeking additional adventures, paddle options via canoe or kayak are also available, totaling about a 1.5-mile journey from the shore.

Hiking Trails

The mountain stands nearly 1,000 feet tall, providing breathtaking views from the summit. Hikers may choose between two trails: one spanning approximately 1.6 miles round-trip and the other reaching around 2.5 miles. For those who prefer a more challenging experience, the southern end of the mountain offers wooden stairs leading to incredible vistas perched about 500 feet above the lake.

Nature Features

Sugar Loaf is one of the first designated National Scenic Trails in the United States. According to tourism site Discover Arkansas, early settlers named it after they thought the summit resembled loaves of unrefined sugar, hence the name Sugar Loaf.

During the hike, outdoor enthusiasts can marvel at the island’s remarkable stone and bluff formations, which boast a geological history spanning over 300 million years. Additionally, nature lovers will find plentiful opportunities to observe the diverse flora and fauna native to Arkansas.

Lastly, make sure to carry a camera to capture the stunning vistas from the mountain’s summit. On clear days, hikers are rewarded with expansive views across the lake and beyond, making for an unforgettable experience.

Cailey Rizzo is a contributing writer for iBestTravel, currently based in Brooklyn.