Description

Lace up the hiking boots, load up the pack (don’t forget the snacks!), and head out into Arkansas—this guide makes it easy for everyone from toddlers and grandparents to explorers just starting out.

  • 105 short, easy-day hikes across Arkansas. Trails that are doable, fun, and packed with scenery.  
  • Trails in more than 30 state parks, plus national forests, national parks, Game & Fish areas, and Corps of Engineers lake parks.  
  • Useful maps, a “hot-dog rating” (so you can see how child-friendly it is), and complete walking descriptions of each hike.  
  • Kid-tips from Amber Ernst, age ten, to help make hikes more fun (and less “are we there yet?”) moments.  
  • “Woods lore” from the Wise Old Owl—a fun touch of nature stories, history, or interesting tidbits along the way.  
  • Trails that are stroller and wheelchair accessible are flagged. Some are paved; some are wild—but all are meant to be easy enough for families and casual hikers.  
  • A Scavenger Hunt built in: hike some trails, answer simple questions, and you can earn a free color patch. Great for keeping kids motivated and curious.