Every winter when the temperature drops and the snow begins to fall, Arkansans can look forward to fun outdoor winter festivities. If you need a break from busy stores and poor imitation Santas, the winter season is a fantastic time to hike a trail or two. Pack a jacket as we scroll through some of the most picturesque trails for the best winter hikes in Arkansas.

1. Discovery Loop - Pine Bluff
AGFC Governor Mike Huckabee Delta Rivers Nature Center, 1400 Black Dog Dr, Pine Bluff, AR 71601, USA
Facebook/Arkansas Wanderlust
This gorgeous straight-from-a-calendar scene is from the Imbeau Bayou of Pine Bluff. For an easy access trail with the same jaw-dropping views, we suggest the Discovery Loop outside of the Delta Rivers Nature Center. Good winter snows are pretty common in this area, making it a great spot for winter hikes in Arkansas.
2. Triple Falls Trail - Jasper
Jasper, AR 72641, USA
Rick's Hiking Blog
Triple Falls (or Twin Falls, depending on water flow) is arguably the most scenic trail for the easiest accessibility. Sure, waterfalls are beautiful in warmer months but there's something special about seeing the accumulation of icicles coming from the fall. Visiting frozen waterfalls are just one of the amazing things to do in Arkansas in the winter.
3. Lost Valley Trail - Ponca
Ponca, AR 72742, USA
Flickr/Jack Gray
Ponca is a treasure trove of beautiful sights and that certainly doesn't diminish in winter. The Lost Valley Trail features a waterfall and is a moderate 1.9 mile hike. Since you're already in the area, be sure to catch a glimpse of the Ponca Elk herd nearby. Arkansas winters are just a little bit better when you spend them exploring the Lost Valley Recreation Center.
4. Bridal Veil Falls Loop- Herber Springs
Heber Springs, AR 72543, USA
Facebook/Arkansas Wanderlust
Bridal Veil Falls and Cornelius Falls (pictured) are spectacular sights in any season but especially after a hardy, freezing rain. The collection of icicles can be viewed along the short .4 mile trail. Visiting the waterfall icicles on this easy trail makes for some wonderful winter hiking in Arkansas.

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5. Delta View Trail - Star City
Cane Creek State Park, 50 State Park Road, Star City, AR 71667, USA
AllTrails/Alexander Arrow
The Delta View Trail in Cane Creek State Park may be one of the most underrated trails in Arkansas. The trail blazed path has a plethora of wild critters roaming around. From eagles to wild hogs, winter is a great time to take this hike. When you spend winter in Arkansas at Cane Creek State Park, you know you’re going to have a good time.
6. Hawksbill Crag - Ponca
Ponca, AR 72742, USA
Flickr/Jonathan Ball
Don't you want to feel on top of the world (like this guy)? Hawksbill Crag is fantastic year round but in the middle of winter, when the trees are no longer a sea of green, the valley seems to be endless. Looking for stunning winter views and plenty of waterfalls? Hawksbill Crag is a great place to explore during Arkansas winters.
7. Cedar Falls Trail - Morrilton
Petit Jean State Park Lake, Arkansas 72110, USA
Facebook/Arkansas Wanderlust
Petit Jean State Park in winter is a promise land of picturesque beauty. From the frozen falls to the icicles hanging from Rock House Cave, you will definitely need to make a trip this season. This gorgeous winter hike in Arkansas is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the landscape in the colder temperatures!
8. Glory Hole Waterfall Trail - Deer
Glory Hole Falls Trailhead, Glory Hole Falls Trail, Ozone, AR 72854, USA
Facebook/Arkansas Wanderlust
The Glory Hole Waterfall is the most unique fall in Arkansas. Instead of flowing over the ledge, the water has worn a hole through it. The trail is downhill (remember that means all uphill on the way back) but a manageable two miles. You'll be able to see what looks like a pile of diamonds after a good freeze. If you’re looking for things to do in Arkansas in the winter , but this trail on your bucket list! It is well-worth the visit.
9. Goat Rock Trail - Hot Springs
Goat Rock Trail, Hot Springs National Park, AR 71901, USA
Flickr/Zack Andrews
This trail leads to Goat Rock Overlook, and like Hawksbill Crag, you'll feel like the only person in the world. The view of Indian Mountain in winter will leave your breath hanging in the air and jaw-dropped. Goat Rock Trail gives you views during winter in Arkansas that you just won’t find anywhere else!

The season may be chilling but the trails are ready to be blazed at the east winter hikes in Arkansas. Which hike sounds like a good break from the holidays to you? Share your plans with us in the comments below!

For a delightful (and light-filled) trail, you should take your family on this winter walk this upcoming holiday season.

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Best Winter Hikes In Arkansas

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Is Arkansas good for hiking?

Arkansas is good for hiking! In fact, the state boasts more than 30 miles of hiking trails to enjoy.  You’ll find trails that wind their way by streams and rivers, you’ll cover mountainous terrain, and even travel through the bottomlands!

Here are some more great hiking trails in Arkansas:

 

What is the coldest month in Arkansas?

January is the coldest month in Arkansas. Arkansas’s cold season lasts from late November through late February, but January’s low temperatures make it the coldest month of the year in Arkansas. The average daily temperature in Arkansas in January is a low of 34 degrees Fahrenheit and a high of 51 degrees Fahrenheit. Arkansas's weather is cold, wet, and rainy during the winter months.

What is the longest hiking trail in Arkansas?

The Ouachita National Recreation Trail is the longest trail in Arkansas, at a length of 223 miles long. The trail starts at Pinnacle Mountain State Park near Little Rock, Arkansas. It continues on west through the Ouachita Mountains until you reach Talimena State Park in Oklahoma.

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