Across the country, summer is typically regarded as prime outdoor time. While I absolutely love being outdoors in the summer, I love to go hiking in the winter. These 5 Winter Hikes in Arkansas are a few of my favorites.
It’s not uncommon for it to get into the upper 90s during the summer. Heat indexes often push the “feels like” temperatures even higher, which is great if you are swimming, but can be really uncomfortable if you are hiking. That’s why I prefer to do the bulk of my hiking adventures in the fall, winter and spring and leave the summer open to water sports.
5 Winter Hikes in Arkansas
These hikes have become some of our family favorites, especially in the cooler months.
Rocky Valley Trail – Pinnacle Mountain State Park
This trail is a bit long if you have kids but you can easily hike a portion and turn around. The entire look is 1.5 miles and also has a 1/2 mile spur to an overlook. The trail is heavily wooded and fairly quiet. You will likely see deer, squirrels and other wildlife. You will feel fully immersed in nature.
Great Blue Heron Trail – Lake Poinsett State Park
This 1.1-mile trail is great all year round. The trail will loop you along the banks of Lake Poinsett (currently drained for restoration) and then through the surrounding woods. The trail is up and down and nothing is too steep. There are several bridges along the trail which are always a favorite feature for our little guy.
The Ravine and The Edge Trails – Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center
Including the walk along the boardwalk to access the trailhead this combined route is just under 3/4 of a mile. The ravine does have some steeper areas but the overall length is short. The Edge Trail is wide open to the sun which is why I prefer this trail in the summer months. Our three-year-old can hike this whole trail without assistance.
Photo courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism.
Bridal Veil Falls – Heber Springs
This trail is short (1/2-mile) and labeled as easy but there are some steep climbs that may not be great for smaller children. That being said the fall is beautiful and runs well in the cooler months when there is more rain. Also, if you happen to catch the falls when they are frozen, it is a beautiful sight!
Photo courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism.
Signal Hill Trail – Mount Magazine State Park
My first experience with the Signal Hill trail was in February following a light snow. The views were spectacular and the reward at the top is reaching the highest point in Arkansas. The trail is moderately difficult with quite a few switchbacks as you climb in elevation. Pack plenty of water and a picnic lunch to enjoy at the top before you loop back down.
What are your favorite winter hikes in Arkansas? If you need some more inspiration check out my friend April’s post about winter hiking in Arkansas on OnlyinArk.
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