Hiking in Southwest Arkansas

Hiking is an awe inspiring route to experience the beauty of Arkansas. The state’s climate allows the pastime year round. The state’s diverse topography offers a range of scenic territory to explore, including Southwest Arkansas, home to the Ouachita Mountains. The ridgeline runs predominantly east to west rather than the north to south direction of the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains, a directional trend that gives rise to distinct plant and animal communities.

The Ouachita National Recreation Trail follows this scenic range for more than 220 miles. There are a wealth of hiking options in the region, including routes such as the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail, which has around 45 miles of trails along the southern shore of Lake Ouachita. The route meanders through the Ouachita National Forest with spurs providing lake vistas.

For more information: www.Arkansas.com/places-to-go/southwest and www.Arkansas.com/outdoors.