Arkansas is home to many spring-fed lakes but not all of them have a trail quite like this one. Lake Ponder Trail in Crowley’s Ridge State Park may be short but it sure has some gorgeous views. Let’s stroll along the boardwalk and take in the scenery at this east side park.

Crowley's Ridge State Park is a beloved park featuring one of the most unique geological features in the state.
Facebook/Arkansas Fun & Adventures
The actual Crowley's Ridge is a collection of rolling hills sitting up to 250-ft. above the rest of the alluvial plains. Crowley's Ridge is one of the original six state parks in Arkansas. The others are Petit Jean, Mount Nebo, Devil’s Den, Lake Catherine and the Buffalo River.

Address: 2092 Highway 168 W North, Paragould, AR 72450
One of the best trails to take in the beauty of the park is the Lake Ponder Trail.
Google/Wayne Reyolds
All of the trails around the state park are short and sweet but we're particularly fond of how accessible the Lake Ponder Trail is. The path is a mix of historic boardwalk and pavement, making it perfect for families with wheelchairs or strollers.
The boardwalk was one of the projects built by the CCC.
Wikipedia
The Civilian Conservation Corps began construction in Crowley's Ridge in 1933. The pavilion, cabins, and boardwalk are still standing strong after 80+ years.

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The trail doesn't take long but you'll find yourself taking pictures after every couple of steps.
Wikipedia
Lake Ponder Trail is .45-miles long and loops around the lake. Take note of all the gorgeous greenery surrounding the lake or just watch the paddle boats cruising by the shore.
Before arriving at the water's edge, the boardwalk will also tour you pass the lake's source.
Google/Wayne Reyolds
Instead of an underground spring like at Mammoth Spring, the one feeding Lake Ponder cascades over the rocks into the pool. While the weather is warm this lake is quite popular for swimmers.
Your adventure isn't over after you've walked the boardwalk.
AllTrails/Beverly Brassfield
Crowley's Ridge State Park has a total of five trails that zigzag around the lake. The CCC aimed to create trails that blended in with the landscape and some, like Dancing Rabbit Trail, were the original trail names used by Native Americans.

Enjoy the boardwalk, take a trail or two, and swim the day away at this beloved state park!

What’s your favorite boardwalk trail to take in Arkansas? Share your answer with us in the comments below! You can also add your photos of Lake Ponder to 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.

If you’re looking for another adventure near Crowley’s Ridge, head to the most musical town in Arkansas. Here’s another boardwalk trail to take in the state, too.

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