We Did the Research, This Is Officially the Most Bizarre Hiking Trail Name in Arkansas

Of all the names one could choose for a hiking trail in Arkansas, I think "Devil's Eyebrow" just might be the strangest. The Devil's Eyebrow and Trimble Mountain Trail is located in Devil's Eyebrow Natural Area near Gateway, Arkansas, and it takes a jagged, pointy route through the woods, similar in shape to the eyebrows of Satan (at least, how they're depicted in art and film). Beyond its bizarre, slightly eerie name, this trail deserves a spot on your bucket list for its breathtaking scenery. It's challenging, no doubt, but the views are worth the effort.

There's actually a story behind the name "Devil's Eyebrow" aside from the trail's shape. It goes back to 1880, when surveyors were scouting out the land in search of a good place for the Frisco Railroad. A local by the name of Archibald Blansett said trying to build a railroad through the mountains would be as impossible as constructing it on the devil's eyebrow. The name stuck, and the rest is history.

At 6.5 miles long, the Devil's Eyebrow and Trimble Mountain Trail is far from a short jaunt, but with hiking poles and good footwear, it's generally doable for the average person. The out-and-back route has an elevation gain of over 1,500 feet, so get ready for a leg workout. You'll encounter many challenging inclines and declines, but when you're standing on the summit of Trimble Mountain, admiring the vast, hilly landscape, the aching in your muscles will seem like a small price to pay.

The trail meanders through limestone canyons and follows a creek that flows year-round. Meditate on the rhythmic sound of the trickling water, allowing it to wash over you and rejuvenate your spirit.

You shouldn't have any trouble staying the course because the trail is very well-marked, with a couple of exceptions. There are offshoot trails that lead up Trimble Mountain and to an arm of Beaver Lake, and the signage for those isn't quite as clear. If you get confused, pull up AllTrails on your phone to show you the way. I mean, look at that pristine water surrounded by lush greenery. You can't pass that up!

When you plug the trail's name into Google Maps, it will lead you to private property. The real entrance is shortly before the directions tell you to turn. There is a sign, but it's small and easy to miss, so keep your eyes peeled.

Visit AllTrails for more information about the Devil's Eyebrow and Trimble Mountain Trail, including current trail conditions. If you're an avid hiker, consider signing up for AllTrails+ to gain access to exclusive perks like offline map access and national park guides.

Have you ever taken this bizarrely-named, yet strikingly beautiful hiking trail in Arkansas? If so, we'd love to hear about your experience. If you need any new hiking gear, our hiking packing list has clothing, accessories, equipment, and more, all from top-rated brands.