Little Rock, Arkansas is a vibrant city known for some of the best hiking spots and is in the heart of the state. Discover the beauty of Arkansas, also known as the Natural State, where nature takes center stage. Home to 52 state parks and two national forests, Arkansas offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Despite being a bustling little city, Little Rock also offers outdoor enthusiasts numerous adventure opportunities. From great hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and birding, Little Rock, Arkansas has many choices for getting your outdoor fix!
What are the best hiking spots and trails near Little Rock?
Our team has compiled our top suggestions for the best hiking trails in Little Rock to try out if you are in the area.
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Don’t forget to pack a backpack for essentials when hiking! We love this inexpensive packable 40L backpack from Amazon because it is a perfect size to fit everything for our hikes and folds down so it doesn’t take up too much space in our suitcase or hooked to the handle of our carry-on!
- Our Favorite Little Rock, AR Hiking Trails:
- Pinnacle Mountain State Park
- River Mountain Park Trail
- Allsopp Park Trail
- Rock Creek Trail
- Arkansas River Trail
- Emerald Park Trail
- Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area Hike
- Must-pack Items for Your Little Rock Hiking Trip:
- Final Thoughts on The Best Little Rock Hiking Spots
- Great Little Rock Hotels if Staying in the City
Our Favorite Little Rock, AR Hiking Trails:
Pinnacle Mountain State Park
With 12 unique hiking trails Pinnacle Mountain State Park is a top pick for both beginners and experienced hikers. This iconic landmark is surrounded by the Big Maumelle and Little Maumelle rivers, offering scenic views and a variety of trails. It’s considered one of the best hiking spots because the variety of hiking trails can meet the needs of all explorers.
We loved hiking there and found it challenging, yet manageable for all levels of hikers.
- Hard Trails
- Pinnacle Mountain West Summit Trail (1.5 miles)
- Pinnacle Mountain East Summit Trail (1.4 miles)
- Ouachita National Recreation Trail (213.9 miles)
- Moderate Trails
- Rocky Valley Trail/East Quarry Spur (2.9 miles)
- Pinnacle Mountain Base Trail Loop (2.7 miles)
- Lake Maumelle Trail (9.2 miles)
- Easy Trails
- Kingfisher Trail (0.6 miles)
- Arkansas Arboretum Trail (0.7 miles)
Pro Tip: Bring your furry friend along for the Base Trail Loop—it’s dog-friendly!
River Mountain Park Trail
Escape the city’s hustle and enjoy a peaceful hike along the River Mountain Park Trail. This well-maintained trail is accessible year-round and offers:
- Tranquil water views
- Wildlife spotting opportunities
- Easy boardwalks
This natural, year-round, trail is well-maintained and hosts moderate amounts of foot traffic, with access from both Two River Park and or Conner Park.
Take an opportunity to wade in the creek in the several access points the trail offers to admire the natural beauty of the area from a different perspective.
Allsopp Park Trail
Length: 3.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Allsopp Park Trail offers opportunities for hikers and pets.
This pet-friendly trail features a mix of paved and earthen paths, making it ideal for hikers of all levels. With amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, and open grass fields, it’s a great spot for a family outing.
Rock Creek Trail
The Rock Creek Trail is a hidden gem, nestled near the I-430/I-630 junction. A moderately easy route, the 3 mile out-and-back journey is accessible from many hotels along the route.
Length: 3.0 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
This terrain provides accessible hiking opportunities for hikers of all levels, as well as families with children. Despite running along the Rock Creek, there are not many great water views.
Arkansas River Trail
Length: 34 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Originally the Arkansas River Trail spanned a 16 mile loop between the Big Dam Bridge and the downtowns of Little Rock, linking on either side of the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge.
However, an addition of the Two River Park Bridge now extends this potential journey 34 miles to Pinnacle Mountain State Park!
Being a mostly paved path makes this trail wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. Both ends of this path act as a spring board for further outdoor enjoyment as they provide connections to several other trails too.
Be aware that sections of the loop do share state highways and local roads that do have vehicle traffic.
Emerald Park Trail
Length: 2 miles (out-and-back)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Emerald Park Trail is a hidden gem perched above the Arkansas River, offering breathtaking views of the water and Little Rock’s skyline. The trail features a mix of paved and dirt paths, making it accessible for most skill levels. (lots of colorful graffiti too)
- Scenic overlooks with panoramic river views
- Wildflower blooms in spring and summer
- Shaded paths perfect for warm days
Pro Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for unbeatable photo opportunities!
If a hiking trip to Colorado is on your list make sure to check out our guide on the Best Easy Hiking Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park to try!
Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area Hike
Difficulty: Intermediate to Expert
For a more challenging hike, Rattlesnake Ridge is your go-to. Its rocky terrain and dramatic elevation changes make it ideal for experienced hikers.
Along the way, you’ll find rare plants and wildlife, plus stunning views of the Ouachita Mountains.
For more experienced hikers, the Lower Kanob trail and the Mountain Boomer Trail offer a challenge by an increase in elevation, and steeper and rockier terrain.
Regardless of the path you choose to explore you will be able to observe rare plants and animal species thanks to the Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area conservation of native wildlife practices.
Must-pack Items for Your Little Rock Hiking Trip:
- Waterproof Hiking Boots – We love Merrell moab II mid waterproof hiking boot women’s and Merrell Moab II mid waterproof hiking boot men’s (Amazon) because they are comfortable all day.
- Portable Phone Charger – Protect your phone from going dead when you need it for a photo op! The Portable Fast Charger with Built-in Cables is budget-friendly!
- Waterproof wind jacket – We love the budget-friendly 33,000ft Men’s Hooded Softshell Jacket Waterproof Lightweight Insulated Windbreaker Fleece Lined for men or women.
- Waterproof Binoculars – The Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars (Amazon) are waterproof and easy to pack with easy focus too!
- Hydration Backpack – The Everfun Hydration Backpack, 18 L Lightweight Hiking Backpack with 2L/3L Water Bladder, Water Backpack because it has hydration plus has space for hiking essentials.
- Packable Hat – Our favorite Amazon one is Sunday Afternoons Unisex Ultra-Adventure Hat because it is easily packable and has neck protection.
- Hiking First Aid Kit – The RHINO RESCUE Small First Aid Kit Ultralight Waterproof Medical Kit for Hiking
- High Protein Snacks – We recommend BUILT Puff Protein Bars High Protein Bars (Brownie Batter is our favorite!) on Amazon.
Final Thoughts on The Best Little Rock Hiking Spots
Exploring the hiking trails near Little Rock offers something for everyone, from serene riverside paths to challenging mountain climbs. Each trail showcases the natural beauty of Arkansas and provides unique experiences, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both.
Don’t forget to plan ahead, pack the essentials, and choose a trail that matches your skill level. With so many stunning options, Little Rock is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Make your next trip unforgettable by embracing the scenic wonders of “The Natural State.”
Great Little Rock Hotels if Staying in the City
We stayed at the Marriott on the river in downtown Little Rock and loved the location and room view! There were also many other options in the area that are convenient. Right across the street was the historical Capital Hotel which has amazing dining options even if you don’t stay there. Some other great options located within walking distance to the river trails and great dining are the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Little Rock and Homewood Suites by Hilton (close to Fassler Hall!).
Find Your Perfect Hotel in Little Rock:
Have you explored any of these hikes? Which will be at the top of your hiking bucket list? Let us know in the comments!
Don’t forget to bring comfortable travel shoes! The Walking Company has a huge selection!
If more adventure is on your travel list, we have a great article on unique things to do in Seattle that includes hiking Mt. Ranier!
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