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
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
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
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
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.
5. Cooper Chapel Trail - Bella Vista
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
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
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
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
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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