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Hiking along the Buffalo National River

Hiking along the Buffalo National River

Getting back to nature is a popular pastime, and hiking in Arkansas is a great way to experience the beauty and majesty of the Natural State.

Big Dam Bridge, part of the Arkansas River Trail, great for biking and hiking in Arkansas

Outdoor enthusiasts will find Arkansas trails designed for day hiking and those preferring extended excursions will enjoy backpacking trails typically found in the Ozark Highlands and the Ouachita National Recreation areas.  Download topo maps of the complete Ouachita National Recreation Trail, then get your gear ready and head out.   One of Arkansas's landmarks is the Big Dam Bridge, part of the Arkansas River Trail, which spans the Arkansas River from Murray Lock and Dam in Little Rock to Cooks Landing in North Little Rock.

Many of the state's natural areas overseen by the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission have trails.  You can find additional information by visiting the ANHC website.

Some trails are legendary among mountain bikers. There are also many equestrian facilities and guided horse trails in Arkansas. For underground adventures, we have Arkansas caves to explore. On and Off the Beaten Path, a guided hiking tour company based in North Arkansas, offers day hikes in the Ozark National Forest and the Buffalo River Wilderness Area.

* For information regarding pets on hiking trails, please contact the appropriate agency for the trail you are interested in. Each agency has their own regulations regarding pets. Contact information can be found with each listing.

Arkansas Hiking Safety Tips & Other Hiking Information

Cedar Falls at Petit Jean State Park, Morrilton

Cedar Falls at Petit Jean State Park, Morrilton

Camping and hiking in the Natural State is an unforgettable experience. To help you along your way, we are providing some general advice and Arkansas hiking safety tips so you can make the best of it. There are also guidelines so you can help us keep the backcountry and wilderness as unspoiled as possible and do your part to preserve Arkansas's plant and animal heritage for hikers and campers to follow. You may want to print the phone numbers list from this website and put it in your backpack and check out the general weather information before planning your trip. We hope you find these Arkansas hiking safety tips helpful, as you explore the Natural State.