Posted in Arkansas May 04, 2018 by

This Waterfall Staircase Hike May Be The Most Unique In All Of Arkansas

We’ve covered hikes to waterfalls, to bluffs, and to just some great sights, but it’s hard to find a trail that has it all. This particular trail traverses steams, caves, tree canopies, and ends with a one-of-a-kind winding staircase in the river. Let’s take a tour of this Arkansas treasure.

The Winding Stairs Trail is one of the best kept secrets in Arkansas.
Flickr/Granger Meador
It's part of the 16-mile Little Missouri Trail, but don't worry this segment is a pleasant 4.8-mile out-and-back hike.
The trail has just about every feature you could want in a Natural State hike.
Flickr/Granger Meador
Really about the only thing missing is a gift shop.
Blaylock Creek will be the first sight you see.
Flickr/Richard May
After the trail crosses Blaylock Creek, you'll be covered by a wonderful tree canopy.
Flickr/Granger Meador
The moderately-rated hike does have some elevation gain but you'll quickly be rewarded with a stunning overlook.
AllTrails/Brandon Fox
For even more features, the trail also has some interesting rock and cave formations.
AllTrails/Samuel Forester
The name sake of the trail comes from the waterfall staircase that runs through the river.
AllTrails/Gary Anderson
The trail crosses the river and opens up to a beautiful pool.
AllTrails/Cary & Kelly Reams
In the warmer months its perfect for swimming or lazily floating.
It may not be the first that comes to mind when thinking of iconic Arkansas trails, but the Winding Stairs Trail is certainly a stunning excursion.
AllTrails/Patrick Rimmer
The Winding Stairs Trail segment is located on Forest Service Road 106 about two miles west of Albert Pike Campground. For directions from Caddo Gap to the trail, use this map.

We would love to see your adventure along the Winding Stairs Trail 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.

If you’d like to stick to something more laid back, try one of these low-key trails.