Best Hiking Trails Near Fort Smith

For outdoor enthusiasts, Fort Smith and surrounding Northwest Arkansas offers some of the best hiking opportunities in the state, with trails for all experience levels. Whether you're looking for a light stroll through scenic woodlands or a rugged climb to breathtaking views, the trails around Fort Smith are the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Here’s a look at some of the best hiking spots near Fort Smith:

BEN GEREN REGIONAL PARK

Located just a few miles from downtown Fort Smith, Ben Geren Regional Park is a local favorite for nature lovers. While primarily known for its sports fields, golf course and biking trails, the park also offers several well-maintained hiking trails that provide a peaceful and scenic environment for a leisurely walk or light hiking.

The park’s wooded trails offer plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as deer, rabbits and a variety of birds. The mostly flat terrain makes it an excellent choice for families or beginners who want to spend time outside without the challenge of steep inclines. And being so close to the city, it’s easy to fit in a short hike to your itinerary.

LAKE FORT SMITH STATE PARK

For those looking for a more immersive hiking experience, Lake Fort Smith State Park is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north, this scenic park features a range of trails that showcase the beauty of the Ozark Mountains.

One of the more popular hikes is the Shepherd Springs Loop — a 4.7-mile trail that takes hikers through lush forests, peaceful streams and along the edge of Lake Fort Smith. The trail offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding hills, making it a great spot for nature photography. Or just snapping a selfie!

For adventurers seeking a real challenge, the park serves as the entry point for the Ozark Highlands Trail — a long-distance trail that stretches over 200 miles through the Ozarks. If you’re not able to hike the entire trail, the section that runs through Lake Fort Smith State Park can still be a rewarding out-and-back hike with gorgeous overlooks, diverse plant life and a true sense of wilderness.

MOUNT MAGAZINE STATE PARK

About an hour and a half east of Fort Smith is Mount Magazine, the highest point in Arkansas at 2,753 feet. The park itself features several fantastic hiking trails, but the Signal Hill Trail is probably the most famous. This 1.5-mile loop takes hikers to the summit of Mount Magazine, where they can stand atop the highest natural point in the state and get a stunning panoramic view of the region.

If you’re up for a longer hike, the Bear Hollow Trail is a more demanding 2.8-mile loop that offers incredible views of the surrounding valleys and rock formations. Wildlife enthusiasts will also enjoy spotting eagles, hawks and deer along the way.

DEVIL’S DEN STATE PARK

Located about an hour and fifteen minutes north of Fort Smith, Devil’s Den State Park is famous for its rock formations, caves and waterfalls. One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Devil’s Den Trail, a 1.5-mile loop that takes visitors past rock crevices, bluffs and caves formed over thousands of years. This trail is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color, creating a vivid backdrop against the rocky landscape.

Another great option is the Yellow Rock Trail, a 3-mile loop that leads to one of the best scenic overlooks in the park. From the top of Yellow Rock, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Lee Creek Valley, making it an excellent spot for sunset hikes or nature photography.

For a longer trek, the Butterfield Hiking Trail is a 15-mile backcountry loop that's a much more challenging yet secluded hiking experience. This trail is perfect for backpackers looking to spend a night under the stars in the Ozarks.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to enjoy a relaxing walk in nature, the Fort Smith and surrounding regions offer something for everyone. Plan your visit today!