Explore This Secret Trail Around One Of The Most Historic Homesteads In Arkansas

If you live in Arkansas, then you know there are historical sites all across our state. These landmarks are part of the rich history and heritage of early settlers of the land. While all are worth visiting, there are several sites that belong on your bucket list. One includes the Collier Homestead located near the Tyler Bend area in the tiny town of St. Joe. With its scenic views as well as historical significance, you'll want to explore this trail for yourself. So, grab your boots and come with me on this hiking adventure to witness this historic hiking trail in Arkansas.

History buffs and nature lovers, this trail is for you! Tucked inside the Buffalo National River near the Tyler Bend area, you'll find the Collier Homestead Trail.

Though this 1.1-mile trail is short, it has lots of historical significance as well as some of the best vistas in Arkansas.

The loop trail can be accessed from the Tyler Bend Visitor Center, and it follows a gravel path that is canopied with trees and lined with pretty wildflowers in the warmer months.

Accessibility folks, you'll be happy to know that you can explore parts of this trail.

However, there are some steep, narrow, and uneven sections that may require walking sticks for some hikers.

For the true adventurer, there are a series of trails in the area, so we recommend that you take some time to explore a few of them.

About 0.5 miles into the trek, you'll come across the Collier Homestead Historic Site. It's one of the most significant homesteads in Arkansas.

As part of the Homestead Act of 1862, this land was one of the last parcels in the Buffalo River area, and it was settled by the Collier family from Kentucky.

History buffs will rejoice at the historical significance of the site. There are several buildings on the land that include a cabin as well as a smokehouse.

The Collier family raised animals, farmed the land, planted herb gardens, and lived in the area until the 1960s.

What's more, you can step inside the buildings to see what life was like for the family almost 100 years ago.

Be sure to pick up a brochure from the visitor center to learn more about this well-preserved Ozark homestead.

But the fun doesn't stop there. After exploring the homestead, continue your trek to the overlook to witness the most amazing views of the Buffalo River.

Please note that after this point, the trail is no longer accessible, but of course, all folks can enjoy these stunning vistas from the overlook.

Outdoor enthusiasts, you'll be happy to know that there is another overlook that puts you at the edge of a towering bluff.

The views are equally stunning but obey the warning signs and do be careful while you explore the area. Whether you're a history buff or nature lover, this historic hiking trail in Arkansas is one that you should witness for yourself.

So, have you explored the Collier Homestead Trail or any of the other trails in the area? If so, what was the best part of the hike? Tell us in the comments below.

Did you know that the Buffalo National River is great for hiking as well as camping? So, grab your camping and hiking essentials and make this a weekend-long adventure. Also, be sure to download the AllTrails+ app for all your offline maps, as well as for information about all the trails in the area.