Just because your little ones can’t tackle the best hikes in Arkansas like the Hemmed-In Hollow or the Goat Trail doesn’t mean they can’t join you for other outdoor Arkansas adventures. We’ve collected our 10 favorite short and sweet hikes that everyone of any age can enjoy. Tighten your baby carriers, pack the snacks, and let’s take on these perfectly pleasant hikes – these are nine of the best hikes in Arkansas for kids. 

1. Farkleberry Trail - Roland
Park by Lake Maumelle, 28340 AR-10, Roland, AR 72135, USA
AllTrails/Brian Eddins
Kids will have as much fun saying the trail name as they will with the actual hike. One of the best waterfront trails in Arkansas, Farkleberry Trail is a .8-mile jaunt along the bank Lake Maumelle. Point out your favorite wildflowers and see how many different types of birds you can spot. Farkleberry Trail has been a family favorite for a long time; come see why.
2. Byrd Lake Natural Area Trail - Pine Bluff
Byrd Lake Natural Area, Unnamed Road, Pine Bluff, AR 71601, USA
AllTrails/Brian Eddins
If the crowds at popular state parks have you down, venture out to one of the official Arkansas Natural Areas. Byrd Lake Natural Area is less frequented but still has easy accessibility for little legs. The simple .5-mile walk is filled with chances to spot native wildlife.
3. Historic Van Winkle Trail - Rogers
Historic Van Winkle Trailhead, AR-12, Rogers, AR 72756, USA
AllTrails/Susan T
You can enjoy an outdoor excursion that doubles as a history lesson along this trail. The Historic Van Winkle Trail is a .8-mile hike that has informative signage that details the Van Winkle family's perseverance during the Civil War.
4. Upland Nature Trail - Saint Charles
Upland Nature Trail, Ethel, AR 72048, USA
AllTrails/Jeffery Karafa
Next up on our list of the best hikes in Arkansas is Upland Nature Trail. Fulfill your and your child's sense of wanderlust without getting totally lost at the Upland Nature Trail. The trail feels remote but is paved the entire way. Spot critters from birds to bugs along this .9-mile stroll.

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5. Cooper Chapel Trail - Bella Vista
Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, 504 Memorial Dr, Bella Vista, AR 72714, USA
AllTrails/Michael S.
The Mildred B. Cooper Chapel has a lovely .4-mile loop around the area, including along Lake Norwood. Inspire future architects with the gorgeous chapel or have fun with little explorers by looking for the painted rocks hidden along the trail.
6. Ricketts Mountain Bluffs Trail - Mt. Judea
Rock Gap, Bass, AR 72655, USA
AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt
Take an easy walk around the bluffs and explore unique rock formations on the Ricketts Mountain Bluffs Trail. Climbers both young and old can have fun in this area. The view isn't too bad either!
7. Orchard Loop Trail - Mena
US Forestry Department, 1500 Grandview Heights, Mena, AR 71953, USA
AllTrails/Martha Nziramasanga
This .5-mile easy loop trail in Arkansas features a beautiful forest and tons of wildflowers. About halfway along the hike is an interesting old homestead site with cellar, cistern, and well.
8. Spider Creek Trail - Paragould
Crowley's Ridge State Park, 2092 AR-168 North, Paragould, AR 72450, USA
AllTrails/Brenda Orourke
Spider Creek Trail is one of the shorter hikes within Crowley's Ridge State Park. The .9-mile loop has plenty of wildlife, including deer. Leashed dogs are welcome to join as well.
9. Swan Lake Nature Trail - Little Rock
Swan Lake, Little Rock, AR 72223, USA
Facebook/Wildwood Park for the Arts
Last but not least on our list of some of the best hikes in Arkansas is Swan Lake Nature Trail. Families will love an a trip to the Wildwood Park for the Arts in Little Rock. The free park has eight themed garden areas, including Swan Lake. The short 1-mile journey around the lake is the perfect angle to spot Billy the Swan.

We would love to see your scenic captures during your next hike! Or perhaps post what you consider to be the best hikes in Arkansas that are kid-friendly, too. You can join our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers, for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature. What’s your favorite family-friendly trail? Share with us in the comments!

For another short and sweet hike that is easily one of the best hikes in Arkansas for kids, you may want to visit Artist’s Point. And if you’re interested in stepping up your hiking game, check out AllTrails+, which is so awesome you’ll wonder how on earth you ever hiked without it.

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More to Explore

Best Hikes in Arkansas For Kids

Melanie J. | July 12, 2022

What are the best scenic hikes in Arkansas? 

By far, the Ozarks have some of the best scenic hikes in Arkansas. For instance, the Lost Valley Trail is easily the most popular trail in the Buffalo National River region. And best of all, it’s a family-friendly hike that leads to incredible caves and waterfalls. While on this 2.3-mile out-and-back trek through the region, you’ll encounter natural rock formations, creeks, footbridges, and more. Be prepared to be awed by the scenic vistas on this trail. Another trail that is equally scenic is the Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) Trail. This 3-mile out-and-back trail in the Ozark National Forest is the most photographed location in Arkansas. The trail is considered to be moderately challenging, but kids, as well as the furry friend, are welcomed on the trail. If you love chasing waterfalls, then you must hike the Haw Creek Recreational Area. Tucked inside the Ozark National Forest, this kid-friendly hike leads to three incredible waterfalls. There are more scenic hikes in Arkansas that you must see for yourself. 

What are three easy hikes in Arkansas?

Arkansas is known for its incredible hiking trails. Some are challenging, while others are short and easy. The good news is that you’ll experience the best of the Natural State regardless of what trails you choose. But if you would like an easy hike, start with the Blanchard Springs Trail. It’s a 0.2-mile out-and-back easy kid-friendly trail that leads to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Arkansas. Another trail that is short and easy is the Falls Branch Trail in Hot Springs. The 1.7-mile loop trail is easy and kid-friendly. It will take less than an hour to complete. Not only is this trail easy, but it also leads to another spectacular waterfall. Lastly, the Signal Hill Trail takes you to the highest elevation in Arkansas. The kids will enjoy this 1.5-mile scenic hike in Mount Magazine State Park, and the jaw-dropping views will leave you speechless. As you can see, there are so many beautiful and easy hiking trails in Arkansas.

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