Arkansas abounds with excellent hiking options. The state’s natural beauty astounds, from mountain ranges clad in oak, maple, hawthorn, and short-leaf pine to stunning river valleys, allowing you to feel as if you’ve dropped out of civilization. Hikes here run the full gamut, from easy out-and-back adventures to potential multi-day excursions. Note that summer weather can get sweltering; however, higher altitudes and shade are present in most mountain hikes. Ticks are fairly common, so ensure to wear a hat and, when weather permits, long sleeves and pants.
Top Hiking Trails in Arkansas
From hikes in the Ozarks to scenic waterfalls, here are some of the best hiking options in Arkansas.
Mt Nebo Rim Trail: Best Mountain Views
3.5-mile loop (5.6km); 2–3 hours, moderate
Rising 1350ft (410m) above Lake Dardanelle and the Arkansas River, Mt Nebo is a commanding natural presence in a state filled with dramatic scenery. The summit offers unparalleled views of the Arkansas River Valley in almost all directions, featuring both a Sunrise Point and a Sunset Point. The trails on Mt Nebo, part of Mt Nebo State Park, provide access for various skill levels.
Glory Hole Waterfall Trail: A Unique Experience
1.9 miles (3.05km) roundtrip; 1–1.5 hours; easy
Glory Hole gets its memorable name from a stream that flows through a hole in an overhanging bluff, creating a uniquely beautiful geographic oddity. In some seasons, the water flow is merely a trickle, but during a wet spring or after heavy rainfall, it resembles a full river squeezed through the rock face. In winter, you may witness a column of ice connecting the bluff to the ground below.
Hawksbill Crag: Iconic Overlook
3 miles (4.8km) out and back; 1.5 hours; moderate
Hawksbill Crag juts out over the Upper Buffalo Wilderness like a rocky dagger. This may be the most photographed outdoor destination in Arkansas. The trail there, known as the Whitaker Point Trail, features considerable elevation gain and steep bluffs to contend with. Autumn offers breathtaking views as the foliage changes colors, enhancing the already stunning scenery.
Hemmed-in Hollow: Ideal Full-Day Hike
5 miles (4.8km) out and back; 4–5 hours; challenging
Located in the heart of the Ozarks, Hemmed-in Hollow is a demanding hike, ideal for those in good shape. Expect about 2.5 miles of steady, often steep elevation gain. The terrain, while beautiful, can be slippery or muddy after rain, and finding the trailhead might pose a challenge. This hike culminates in breathtaking views of a 200-foot tall waterfall, the tallest between the Rockies and Appalachians.
Eagle Rock Loop: Best Multi-Day Hike
26.5 miles (42.6km); multiple days; challenging
Located in Ouachita National Forest, the Eagle Rock Loop is Arkansas’s most iconic multi-day hike. This trek, which usually takes three days for experienced hikers, checks off all the boxes on an outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list. It features lush forests, rock bluffs, significant elevation gain, and creek crossings, making it a true adventure in Arkansas’s natural beauty.
Hiking in Arkansas provides breathtaking views, unique experiences, and the chance to immerse yourself in the state’s rich natural offerings. Whether you prefer a short scenic hike or a challenging multi-day expedition, Arkansas has it all.
