5 Ways Arkansas Will Wow You

The best adventures are the ones that surprise you. Unexpected discoveries and bold new paths bring nature to life in whole new ways. And that’s exactly what you’ll find in Arkansas, where forests and rivers and mountains and lakes serve up one surprise after another. Whatever your passion—biking, hiking, fishing, paddling, climbing, camping—you’ll find the perfect escape in The Natural State. Start with these five spots, and for even more click here.

Fishing

Anglers from all over the country travel to Arkansas to fish the White River, where trout fishing is sublime year-round and the fish count per mile is representative of a healthy (and lively) fishery. Cast a line for rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat, golden, and tiger trout. Or explore the state’s lakes and smaller streams for a chance to land smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, and stripers.

Paddling

Everyone should experience the Buffalo National River, America’s first National River. The mellow water is accessible to all skill levels and rich with great scenery and camping. Highly skilled paddlers looking for whitewater thrills will love Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area, which includes one of the most rugged and spectacular river corridors in the central United States. Decorated with wooded slopes, hiking trails, unique geological features, and cascading Class III–V water, the Cossatot is a dream destination for experienced whitewater canoeists, rafters, and kayakers.

Hiking

Head to Whitaker Point Trail to check out Hawksbill Crag—one of the most iconic landmarks in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest. The 2.7-mile trail winds through dense forest of pine and hardwood before popping out at the rocky outcropping that resembles its namesake. From there, hikers can take in expansive views of the Buffalo National River basin. The trail is accessible year-round but is especially scenic during peak fall colors (typically mid-October to early November).

Climbing

Camp close to the climbing action at Sam’s Throne Recreation Area. With more than 300 named routes, this crag could entertain any climber for years. There’s something for all types of climbers here, including boulders and some sport routes. But the crag is best known for its impressive lineup of trad climbs. Most routes fall in the 5.7 to 5.10 range, so there are plenty of options for beginner and intermediate climbers. The campground near the crag features six primitive, drive-accessible sites, plus walk-in sites. Looking for more sport routes? Try nearby Candy Mountain or Valley of the Blind, both within a 2-mile radius of Sam’s Throne.

Mountain Biking

Earn your turns on 50 miles of trails at Little Sugar, which features more vert per mile than anywhere else in the Bentonville region. These relatively new trails were constructed in 2020, so riders can expect a more modern feel, with slightly wider singletrack that’s approachable for beginners. Take the scenic route on the 28.8-mile cross-country Tunnel Vision. This intermediate trail follows the perimeter of the park, with connecting trails that cut through ravines and under rocky bluffs and, of course, through tunnels made of ten-foot-diameter pipes. Don’t miss the waterfall on Tanyard Creek on the loop’s east side.

Little Sugar on Trailforks.com

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism protects and promotes the state’s natural, cultural, and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. The Division of Arkansas Tourism strives to expand the economic impact of travel and tourism in the state and enhance the quality of life for all Arkansans. The division manages 14 Arkansas Welcome Centers and employs more than 60 staff members across the Natural State. Learn more at arkansas.com.