The best walks and hikes in Montgomery County

The Little Missouri Trail to Winding Stairs offers a moderate hiking experience through the remote Ouachita National Forest, leading you past clear waters and through diverse woodlands. This 2.0-mile (3.3 km) out-and-back route, with only 155 feet (47 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 54 minutes to complete, making it an ideal choice for a relatively quick but rewarding journey. You'll encounter stately hardwoods, old-growth pine stands, and the stunning "Winding Stairs" rock formations along the Little Missouri River, where layered shelves create natural stair-like features.

Planning your visit requires a bit of preparation, as you'll need to cross the Little Missouri River and several creeks multiple times. The rocks can be slick, and high water levels after rain can make crossings dangerous, so always check conditions beforehand. The trail is open to foot traffic and mountain bikes only, ensuring a quiet experience away from vehicles. While specific trailhead parking isn't detailed, expect to find access points typical of a national forest trail.

This trail is a celebrated part of the Ouachita Mountains, known for its hidden natural beauty and the sense of solitude it offers. The Little Missouri River itself is a highlight, with its emerald green pools and sections where the current surges around large boulders. You'll also spot large novaculite rock outcrops and tranquil river bottom forests shaded by towering umbrella magnolias, all contributing to the area's wild character.

Embark on an easy hike along the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail and Eagle Vista Loop, a 2.7-mile (4.4 km) route that offers delightful forest scenery and expansive views of Lake Ouachita. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 92 feet (28 metres) over varied terrain, including compacted dirt paths. This loop provides a pleasant outdoor experience, perfect for a quick escape into nature, taking about 1 hour and 8 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible within the Ouachita National Forest. You will find numerous access points to the broader Lake Ouachita Vista Trail system, making it simple to locate parking and begin your adventure. The route is also dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your canine companion along to enjoy the natural surroundings.

This trail is particularly notable for its wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for bird enthusiasts. The Eagle Vista section is renowned for attracting bald eagles, particularly during the cooler winter months. Keep an eye out for these majestic birds as you traverse the loop, adding a unique highlight to your outdoor experience in the Ouachita National Forest.

Embark on an easy hike along the Crystal Vista Trail, a unique route where you will discover sparkling fields of exposed quartz crystals. This path covers 0.6 miles (1.0 km) and involves a gentle climb of 344 feet (105 metres), taking approximately 22 minutes to complete. As you ascend to the summit on Mount Gardner, you are treated to panoramic vistas of the Ouachita National Forest, including distant hills and the potential glimpse of Lake Ouachita.

Planning your visit is simple, as parking is readily available at the trailhead. The trail welcomes dogs, so feel free to bring your furry friend to explore alongside you. Although the route is considered easy, the terrain can be rocky, making sturdy hiking boots a recommended choice for a more comfortable experience.

This trail stands out for its crystal-rich environment, offering a distinct natural encounter within the Ouachita National Forest. It provides a rewarding experience for both crystal enthusiasts and those who appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The unique geology makes it a notable destination for a short, immersive outdoor adventure.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail from Tompkins Bend to Joplin, covering 6.5 miles (10.4 km) with an elevation gain of 437 feet (133 metres). You can expect this route to take about 2 hours and 47 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will pass through mixed hardwood and pine forests, enjoying beautiful views of Lake Ouachita. Keep an eye out for the notable Traildog Vista, offering a great spot to pause. The path is winding, featuring some short, steep sections and numerous spring-fed streams.

This segment of the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail is ideal if you enjoy section hiking. You will find parking available at the Tompkins Bend trailhead, which serves as the starting point for this particular route. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for accessing this part of the trail. Consider starting your hike early to enjoy the cooler temperatures and peaceful morning light.

Beyond the scenic lake views, this trail offers a glimpse into the region's unique geology. As you traverse the route, you may encounter remnants of old quartz crystal mines and unusual rock formations. These features add an interesting historical and natural dimension to your outdoor experience in the Ouachita National Forest.

Embark on an easy hike along the Sunset Vista Trail, a short route perfect for a quick escape into nature. This trail winds through the serene woodlands of Ouachita National Forest, offering pleasant views of the surrounding trees and potentially glimpses of Lake Ouachita in the distance. You will cover 0.9 miles (1.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 48 feet (15 metres), making it an accessible option for nearly everyone. Expect to spend around 22 minutes immersing yourself in the peaceful forest environment, enjoying the fresh air and natural scenery.

Planning your visit to the Sunset Vista Trail is straightforward. The route is situated within the expansive Ouachita National Forest, a region known for its natural beauty. You will generally find parking available at trailheads throughout the national forest, but it is always wise to check local signage upon arrival for specific instructions. Before heading out, make sure to look for any temporary closures or alerts that might affect your trip. This easy trail is ideal for a morning stroll or an afternoon outing, offering a refreshing break from your day.

The Sunset Vista Trail provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Ouachita National Forest. While specific detailed descriptions for this particular easy route are not widely available, its proximity to the longer Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) suggests it shares the same rich forest environment. It serves as an excellent introduction to the area's woodlands, allowing you to connect with nature without committing to a longer excursion. This trail is a great way to enjoy the forest's tranquility and perhaps spot some local wildlife.

Hike the moderate 4.7-mile Lake Ouachita Vista Trail: Mtn Harbor Rd - Lookout Tower for panoramic views of Lake Ouachita.

Discover the Rockhouse Trail, an easy hiking route that guides you through the peaceful woodland setting of the Ouachita National Forest. This short path covers just 0.5 miles (0.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 70 feet (21 metres), making it a perfect quick escape. You can expect to complete the route in about 13 minutes, enjoying the forest's tranquility and the sounds of nature as you go. Look out for the diverse plant life that thrives along the way, offering a refreshing break in a scenic environment.

Planning your visit to the Rockhouse Trail is straightforward. The route is easily accessible within the Ouachita National Forest. You should find convenient parking available at trailheads in national forests, so locating a spot to begin your hike won't be an issue. No specific permits or fees are mentioned for this particular trail, allowing for hassle-free access. This makes it an ideal choice if you are looking for a spontaneous outdoor activity without much preparation.

The Rockhouse Trail offers a simple yet immersive experience within the natural beauty of the Ouachita National Forest. While specific landmarks are not highlighted for this route, its charm lies in the quiet immersion it provides into the forest's ecosystem. It's a great option if you want to connect with nature and enjoy a brief, easy walk. Consider this trail for a moment of calm amidst your adventures in the wider Ouachita region.

The Eagle Rock Loop offers a rugged and rewarding hiking experience through the Ouachita National Forest, traversing diverse landscapes from mixed hardwood and pine forests to lush river valleys. You'll encounter numerous creek and river crossings, including the Little Missouri River, which often requires wet crossings. The trail features impressive natural landmarks like the Winding Stairs area with its unique rock formations and the expansive views from Eagle Rock Vista, making it a memorable journey for those seeking a challenge.

This difficult 13.4-mile (21.6 km) route involves 1420 feet (433 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 6 hours and 40 minutes to complete. It's considered one of Arkansas's toughest loop hikes, demanding good physical condition and preparation for its strenuous nature and tricky water crossings. While relatively accessible from Little Rock, plan your visit carefully, especially regarding water levels in the spring.

Historically, the Eagle Rock Loop combines three distinct trails, tracing back to a 100-year-old postal route and old wagon roads. It's often seen as a "test piece" for experienced hikers due to its challenging terrain, which includes crossing nine mountains and navigating significant vertical activity. The trail provides ample opportunities for remote camping, often conveniently located near water sources, enhancing its appeal for backpackers.

Hike a moderate 9.9 miles (15.9 km) section of the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) through forests with lake views.