It may come as a surprise to some that Arkansas offers some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. There are countless trails that lead to tranquil destinations, mesmerizing waterfalls, historical landmarks, and spectacular views that stretch out as far as the eye can see. We’ve done the research to narrow down the 18 absolute best hikes in Arkansas and have compiled them into an easy-to-reference list for you below.

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Best Hikes in Arkansas

When it comes to hiking in the Wonder State, you’ll find a vast selection of scenic, lush, and beautiful trails. But the following hand-selected trails rise far above the rest for their pristine beauty, iconic landmarks, refreshing waterfalls, or all of the above. Read on to discover the best hikes in Arkansas to add to your adventuring bucket list.

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1. Whitaker Point Trail

Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point, Co Rd 406, Kingston, AR 72742, USA
Carolyn Fries / AllTrails
  • Location: Ozark National Forest, Pettigrew, Arkansas
  • Mileage: 2.7 miles out and back
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • FYI: There is a designated parking area at the trailhead off of County Road 5; however, be prepared to park further down the road during the busy summer months, as this trail is quite popular on warmer days. Leashed dogs are welcome on this trail.

The beautiful Whitaker Point Trail is buried deep in the lush Ozark National Forest. People travel from around the U.S. to hike to the infamous Hawksbill Crag, which is easily the most photographed bluff in the state, and for good reason. A fun fact you'll love: Hawksbill Crag was even featured in the Disney film Tuck Everlasting!

You can also extend your hike to see some of the beautiful waterfalls that can be found by branching off to the right at the trailhead. You'll agree the extra trek is worth it to explore these beautiful waterfalls.

2. Lost Valley Trail

Lost Valley Trailhead, Lost Valley Rd, Kingston, AR 72742, USA
C C / AllTrails
  • Location: Ponca, Arkansas
  • Mileage: 2.3 miles out and back
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • FYI: There are approximately 0.9 miles of accessible trail before you encounter stairs, rocky surfaces, and an eventual stream crossing. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.

The beautiful Lost Valley Trail is found within the newly renovated Buffalo National River area of northern Arkansas. This picturesque trail leads you alongside Clark Creek and past a few natural bridges en route to your end destinations of Eden Falls and Cobb Cave. The idyllic Eden Falls alone is reason enough to embark upon this relatively short trail.

You may encounter a few stream crossings, so come prepared with waterproof shoes or water shoes, spare socks, and hiking poles for added stability for the more challenging portions of this trail.

3. Centerpoint to Goat Trail

Sarina King / AllTrails
  • Location: Ponca, Arkansas
  • Mileage: 5.9 miles out and back
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • FYI: Be aware that, due to the popularity of this trail, the parking lot for the Centerpoint Trailhead fills up quickly. Leashed dogs are welcome.

Centerpoint to Goat Trail offers some of the best views in all of Arkansas; as a result, this trail is quite popular, so you'll want to arrive at the parking lot early to grab a spot.

Enjoy the lush scenery along your path as you make your way toward the 550-foot Big Bluff, which overlooks the stunning Buffalo River Valley. This section of the trail is not cut out for kids or those who are sensitive to heights, but otherwise, you'll enjoy soaking in these views from the bluff and all throughout this scenic trail.

Best Short & Easy Hikes in Arkansas

There is plenty of nature to immerse yourself in, even if you may only be a beginner or less experienced hiker. These short and easy hikes in Arkansas offer gorgeous views and tranquility and are very accessible to just about every level of hiker. You’ll find something to love along each of these beautiful trails that can be easily hiked and enjoyed year-round.

4. Tanyard Loop

Tanyard Creek Loop 2, Bella Vista, AR 72715, USA
Joscelyn Iverson / AllTrails
  • Location: Bella Vista, Arkansas
  • Mileage: 2.2-mile loop
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • FYI: The trail is on private property but is open to the public. Dogs are allowed and may be off-leash in certain areas.

Tanyard Loop is the perfect trail for a family outing or a stroll with your furry friend with thrilling scenery throughout. The real treat, however, is Tanyard Creek Falls and its associated (small) swimming hole. You'll likely find crowds here on the weekends, but try the trail on a weekday morning for a more secluded stroll.

Tanyard Loop is well-marked and easy to follow. There are also several options to branch off the trail for an extended hike if desired. You'll be hard-pressed to find a more scenic and achievable hike in Arkansas than Tanyard Loop.

5. Bear Cave Trail

Bear Cave Trail, 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR 72110, USA
Mark Harden / AllTrails
  • Location: Morrilton, Arkansas
  • Mileage: 1.1-mile out and back trail
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • FYI: While this trail is technically rated "easy", do be aware there are sections of slippery rocks and exposed tree roots in some areas. Leashed dogs are welcome on this trail.

It won't take you long to uncover all that makes Bear Cave Trail such a unique and fairytale-like trail. Otherworldly rock formations are found all along the trail, including some small caves and narrow passageways that really bring out one's inner sense of adventure. It's not hard to see why this is one of the top-rated trails in Petit Jean State Park.

You'll find yourself enamored with these enormous and fascinating stone structures that make Bear Cave Trail a true gem to explore. Check on the views from the bluff to really round out the experience. And the cherry on top is that this trail is accessible to almost all levels of hiking ability.

6. Grand Promenade

The Grand Promenade, Hot Springs, AR 71901, USA
Bob Trusty / AllTrails
  • Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas
  • Mileage: 0.7-mile out and back trail
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • FYI: This short and easy trail is located within Hot Springs National Park. There is no entry fee to enter the park. Dogs are allowed if they are leashed.

If you're looking for short and sweet, Grand Promenade is the trail for you. There is virtually no elevation gain, making this perhaps the most accessible trail in the state. There is even a ramp to allow wheelchair access to this trail from Fountain Street or behind Fordyce Bathhouse, and an accessible parking space there as well, making this truly a trail for all to enjoy.

Additionally, while the trail may be a popular one at times, it is widely spaced throughout, with plenty of room for all. Enjoy a warm, sunny stroll along the paver-stoned pathway as you pass by the historic Bathhouse Row, along with other historic and charming buildings. Be sure not to miss the interesting informational markers all along the way.

Hardest Hikes in Arkansas

Perhaps you’re a seasoned hiker looking to add some extra challenge to your hiking experience while still exploring beautiful destinations. We’ve done the research for you and found that the following trails are arguably some of the hardest hikes in Arkansas. They’re worth the added effort for the incredible views and scenery they offer. And bonus points for avoiding the crowds on these gorgeous – if strenuous – Arkansas trails.

7. Athens-Big Fork Trail

Athens-Big Fork Trail Head, Weyco Rd 53800, Umpire, AR 71971, USA
Cruz Reyes / AllTrails
  • Location: Mena, Arkansas
  • Mileage: 17.8 miles out and back
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • FYI: This popular backpacking trail welcomes leashed dogs, but be aware that you'll likely need a high-clearance AWD or 4WD vehicle to navigate the road to the trailhead.

Athens-Big Fork Trail may be the epitome of a backpacker's paradise. But make no mistake: you'll need to put in some work for this one. Because it is such a great distance, it's better to split up the trail over two or three days, so you'll need to come prepared with all the backpacking essentials.

Not only is this trail lengthy, but it also packs in some serious elevation gain of 5,518 ft in total. Your quads and calves are likely to feel the pain after this one, but you'll find that the views you'll encounter will make the struggle worth the effort.

8. Lake Sylvia to Crystal Prong Creek via Ouichita Trail

Lake Sylvia, Arkansas 72126, USA
Gez Rogers / AllTrails
  • Location: Perryville, Arkansas
  • Mileage: 20-mile out and back trail
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • FYI: This trail is best approached as a backpacking excursion. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.

Lake Sylvia to Crystal Prong Creek via Ouichita Trail is another trail that pulls heavy weight in both the distance and elevation gain departments. But the real plus with this trail, aside from its endless natural beauty of all varieties, is that you're unlikely to encounter another soul on this hike. And if you do, they'll likely be few and far between.

A few additional bonus tips: there are several newly updated shelters along this path, such as the Oak Mountain Shelter, which make for great options for those that would like a little more respite and protection from the elements of nature. Additionally, you'll find some water about 5 miles in, just in case you happen to run out along the way.

9. Ponca Wilderness and Buffalo National River Loop