When spring gets in full swing in Arkansas, there's no better time to get outside and enjoy the Natural State. These are some of the best hikes in Arkansas, perfect for a relaxed outing with the whole family. Let's pack a picnic and take one of these beautiful spring hikes.

1. Alum Cove Natural Bridge Trail - Deer

The Alum Cove Natural Bridge is so large that it used to be used as a road for the early pioneers. Interesting caves and waterfalls line the 1.2-mile trail. For directions to the Alum Cove Recreation Area, use this map. And All Trails can provide you with more details on this hike.

2. H.E. Flanagan Prairie Natural Area - Charleston

The Natural State is bursting with wildflowers during May and June. Although it doesn't have a designated trail, one particular field is perfect for a leisurely stroll through the Blazing Star flowers. Part of the H.E. Flanagan Prairie Natural Area outside of Charleston, the field is perfect for a flower-powered hike or wildlife viewing. You can reach the area by using these coordinates. Check out the

" target="_blank">Arkansas Heritage website for further information.

3. Wells Lake Trail - Fort Smith

The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is a wonderful stop for a spring day outing. There's a handful of trails around the nature center, but our favorite is the .5-mile trail around the lake, a great kid-friendly hike in Arkansas. Be sure to stop in the nature center for interactive activities and critter feedings. The trail is located at 8300 Wells Lake Rd., Fort Smith, AR 72916. Head to the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center website for more information on this trail.

4. Lost Valley Trail - Ponca

Lost Valley Trail really has it all, beginning with a camping area and ending at a cave. Along this 2.1-mile scenic hike in Arkansas, you’ll see some incredible sights, including waterfalls, a creek, cliffs, a natural bridge, and a large bluff shelter, with the gorgeous green of the forest all around. The Lost Valley Recreation Area is at Hwy. 43, Ponca, AR 72670. Check out this

listing for information on this trail.

5. Swan Lake Nature Trail - Little Rock

Wildwood Park for the Arts is a free park that has eight themed garden areas, including Swan Lake. The short one-mile journey around the lake is the perfect angle to spot Billy the Swan. You can enjoy the park and all its splendor at 20919 Denny Rd., Little Rock, AR 72223. Learn more about this trail at All Trails.

6. Gregory Park Loop - Fayetteville

This serene little trail is an easy hike in Arkansas. Although it is nestled in the city of Fayetteville, it will transport you into the wilderness. It's just under a mile hike and is covered in a cooling tree canopy. Gregory Park is located at 69 E Sycamore St., Fayetteville, AR 72703. All Trails can provide you with more details on this loop.

7. White Rock Rim Trail - Winslow

White Rock Rim Trail takes you through some sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it one of the best places to see the Ozarks. The 1.6-mile trail is a short and pretty easy hike in Arkansas, though not the most kid-friendly because of the bluffs. The recreation area is located at 217 Bowles Gap Rd., Winslow, AR 72959. For further information on this trail, check out the All Trails listing.

8. Islets Cove Paddle Trail - Bismarck

Even if it's not quite warm enough for a dip in the summer swimming holes, you can still have some fun on the water. The Islets Cove Paddle Trail at DeGray Lake is a three-mile loop that takes casual boaters around the north shore of the island. Besides just enjoying the scenery, the trail has multiple points of interest filled with historical tidbits. DeGray Lake Resort State Park is located at 2027 State Park Entrance Rd., Bismarck, AR 71929. Head to Arkansas State Parks for more info on this.

By no means is this a complete list! We would love to know which trails are your favorite for a springtime day trip. What do you think are the best hikes in Arkansas? Share with us in the comments below!

You should definitely pair these springy hikes with these awesome springtime camping spots!