Posted in Arkansas
April 04, 2018
10 Totally Kid-Friendly Hikes In Arkansas That Are 1 Mile And Under
Just because your little ones can’t tackle 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.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Kids will have as much fun saying the trail name as they will taking the actual hike. Farkleberry Trail is a .8-mile jaunt along the bank Lake Maumelle. Point out your favorite wildflower and see how many different types of birds you all can spot.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
If the crowds at popular state parks has you down, venture out to the state's Natural Areas. Byrd Lake Natural Area is less frequented but still have easy accessibly for little legs. The simple .5-mile walk is filled with chances to spot native wildlife.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
If you're working on an Arkansas bucket list for your child (what, just me?), Triple Falls Trails is a must. The iconic falls is an easy .3-mile trot from the parking lot of Camp Orr. Have your littles practice their photography at these picturesque falls.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
Have 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.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
Fulfill you 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.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
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.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
Take an easy walk around the bluffs and explore unique rock formations on this .4-mile loop. Climbers both young and old can have fun in this area. The view isn't too bad either!
For directions to the trail, use this map.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
This .5-mile loop in Mena features a beautiful forest and tons of wildflowers. About halfway along the hike is an interesting old homestead site with cellar, cistern, and well.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
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.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
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.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
For directions to the trail, use this map.
We would love to see your scenic captures during your next hike! 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 below!
For another short and sweet hike, you may want to visit Artist’s Point.
