7 Stunning Trails That Are Perfect For A Bundled Up Winter Hike In Arkansas
By Carol Ann Carson|Published December 12, 2019
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Carol Ann Carson
Author
Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. in Library Science. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite.
It’s easy to associate summertime swimming holes and roaring waterfalls surrounded by greenery when you picture Arkansas; however, our greatest outdoor adventures aren’t necessarily dependent upon warm temperatures. Whether it’s to better find a hidden cascade or to prevent a sweltering sweat, today’s featured trails are perfect during wintertime. So let’s bundle up, pick a trail, and head to one of these cool spots.
The biggest benefit of this trail between October-February is the lack of bugs. The ticks and chiggers along this hike are downright awful in the summer but are quite sparse during the chill. Other positive points are the actually visible waterfalls (that are quite covered during the greener seasons) and more peeks at the gorgeous panoramic view!
Another difficult trail that is more manageable during chilly weather is the Big Creek Cave Falls deep in the Ozark National Forest. Not only will the hike have lower humidity this time of year, the waterfalls along the way stay flowing year-round. Explore a cave or two and chase waterfalls along this gorgeous trail.
Leaf-off season is certainly the best time to take the Pedestal Rocks Loop Trail at King's Bluff. The towering formations will be prominently displayed and the rock maze below will also be easier to navigate during this season! If you'd like to see the waterfall at King's Bluff be sure to head out after a decent rain.
Lake Ouachita is such a popular summer destination but traveling here during the off season is such a relief. Not only will you enjoy the more modest crowds at the state park, you'll also have a quiet trail to yourself! The Caddo Bend loop is a great tour around the northeast portion of Arkansas' cleanest lake.
The trek to Big Bluff is a little less daunting during the wintertime. The 1,000+ feet of elevation gain is still the same but it's much easier to tackle when you're not immediately dripping with sweat. Elf hats aren't mandatory for this hike but they're certainly encouraged.
Hiking isn't the only way to enjoy beauty of the Natural State. After you've hiked to Big Bluff take the ultimate water trail by paddling the Buffalo National River. The river is well known as a summer destination but we love the quietness that comes with a cold season trip.
This ghostly yet gorgeous view can be yours by tackling Sam's Throne during wintertime. Not only is this area a rock climber's paradise, the ropeless rock climb is great for those of us that'd rather stay on two feet!
We hope these trails inspire a cool trip or two this season. Before heading out on any hike be sure to further research the area. We highly recommend checking out AllTrails for more insight and GPS maps!
What trails have you trekked this chilly season? Share your favorites with us in the comments below! Feel free to add your hike photos in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
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