Alongside Highway 7, one of Arkansas’ prettiest drives, resides a little park you may have missed. Iron Springs Rec Area is simply splendid. Whether you’re just wanting a pretty place for a picnic or want to take on a mountain trail, Iron Springs is Arkansas’ (not so) best kept secret. Let’s explore the area and see what awaits us at the top of Hunt’s Loop Trail.

Iron Springs Recreation Area is a lovely little roadside park in the Ouachita National Forest.
Wikipedia
The park is perfect for a picnic or as a pit stop before reaching Hot Springs. For directions to the park, use these coordinates.
In the early 1900s people believed this spring had mystical healing properties.
Google/Teresa Lynn Stauffer-Gasperson-Presser
We may be a little skeptical about the spring's medicinal healing, but the area does have a calming effect that's almost magical.
After picnicking you can take on the nearby Hunt's Loop Trail.
AllTrails/Michael Serrano
The 4.4-mile loop is rated as moderate for its elevation gain but can be enjoyed by most families. The trail is marked well and has information plaques throughout. We recommend taking the loop clockwise to tackle the steeper elevation gain first.

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The peak of the trail has a wonderful payoff.
AllTrails/Ryan Foley
The view from the Short Mountain Vista is expansive. At this point you're at 1,372-ft. elevation.
Each season brings its own unique treasures to the area.
Google/Dawn Hyndman
We highly recommend visiting Iron Springs either in the fall or spring. Fall makes the hike quite enjoyable and colorful. Spring is perfect for any wildlife photography, especially for butterflies around March.
Whenever you decided to take the trip, the peaceful beauty of Iron Springs will be ready.
Google/Grady Beachum
This little park will quickly become a favorite spot after a day trip.

Did you know about Iron Springs? We’d love to see your photos from your trip in our Facebook Group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.

Just a little ways south of this area is a fantastic scenic drive in the middle of nowhere and also within driving distance is a little shack that serves a million milkshake flavors.

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