The best city hikes and walks around Hot Springs
4.7
(23)
450
hikers
26
hikes
Urban hiking trails around Hot Springs are set within the Ouachita Mountains, characterized by rocky slopes, novaculite outcrops, and lush creek valleys. The region features mixed forests of oak, hickory, and pine, with natural thermal springs flowing from Hot Springs Mountain. Diverse terrain offers varied experiences, from gentle paths to climbs, often with panoramic views of the surrounding ranges.
Best urban hiking trails in Hot Springs
- The most popular urban hiking route is Oertel Trail, an easy 1.6 milesβ¦
Last updated: April 25, 2026
1
hikers
2.55km
00:43
50m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
1.22km
00:26
110m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1.33km
00:24
0m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.67km
00:29
70m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
48
hikers
10.6km
03:06
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Hot Springs National Park, tucked into the city of Hot Springs, Arkansas, protects 47 thermal springs that have drawn people for centuries. Unlike most national parks, itβs in an urban setting; historic bathhouses line Bathhouse Row, offering a window into the heyday of 20th-century spa culture. You can still soak in the mineral-rich waters today. If you want to get out of the historic town, however, forested trails wind through the surrounding Ouachita Mountains, with overlooks and quiet picnic spots above the town. It's a unique blend of preserved wilderness, geothermal geology, and living history, all within walking distance of downtown.
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The Hot Springs National Park Historic Baths Walk takes you past the iconic bathhouses that made this area famous. Running along Bathhouse Row, the paved route winds through the heart of downtown Hot Springs, where youβll see early 20th-century buildings like the Fordyce, Buckstaff, and Quapaw, each with its own story in the parkβs long spa tradition. Interpretive signs and restored architecture offer a glimpse into the era when this was a major health destination. Itβs a short, accessible walk and you can still step inside for a soak, just as visitors did a century ago.
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At the far northern edge of the Gupha Gorge Campground, there is a short trail that connects you to the popular Gupha Gorge and Sunset Trails.
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Free parking
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Located at the Arlington Lawn, this is the largest visible spring in the park. Hot water emanates from the hill side near the Grand Promenade and flows under the path, down a steep cliff into two pools.
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The Buckstaff Bathhouse, named for controlling shareholders George and Milo Buckstaff, replaced the old Rammelsberg Bathhouse, a brick Victorian structure. The Rammelsberg replaced the A.B. Gaines Bathhouse destroyed in the 1878 fire, but there was a brick bathouse on the site in the late 1850s as well. Designed by Frank W. GIbb and Company, Architects, the Buckstaff cost $125,000 to build and contains 27,000 square feet on three main floors. Because it has been in continuous operation since it opened on February 1, 1912. It is one of the best preserved of all of the bathhouses on Bathhouse Row. However, it has gone over many changes through the years. Originally, it had a large hydrotherapeutic department, which only it, the Fordyce, and the Imperial offered.
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Many popular hikes can be started from the city center of Hot Springs National Park.
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The overlook built in 1924 provides views of the Ouachita Mountains with Indian Mountain across in the valley below.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Hot Springs?
Hot Springs offers a wide selection of urban hiking trails. Our guide features over 25 routes that allow you to explore the city's unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm.
Are there easy urban hiking trails suitable for beginners in Hot Springs?
Yes, Hot Springs has many easy urban trails perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed stroll. For example, the Oertel Trail is an easy 1.6-mile route offering pleasant forest scenery. The Gulpha Gorge Trail is another accessible option, leading to scenic views.
Can I bring my dog on the urban hiking trails in Hot Springs?
Many trails within Hot Springs National Park and the surrounding urban areas are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, especially within the national park boundaries. The National Park Service website provides detailed information on pet policies.
Are there any family-friendly urban hikes in Hot Springs?
Absolutely! Many of the urban trails are suitable for families. The Grand Promenade, a paved brick pathway behind historic Bathhouse Row, offers an easy walk with historical sightseeing. Shorter, less strenuous trails like the Oertel Trail are also great for families with children.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can I expect to see on these urban trails?
Hot Springs' urban trails offer a unique blend of natural and historical sights. You can explore the ancient thermal springs, view novaculite outcrops, and enjoy mixed forests. Notable landmarks include the historic Hot Springs National Park Historic Baths and the Hot Spring Cascade. Many trails also lead to panoramic viewpoints.
Are there any circular urban hiking routes in Hot Springs?
Yes, there are several circular routes that allow you to start and end in the same location. A popular moderate option is the Hot Springs Mountain and North Mountain Loop, which covers over 6 miles and offers diverse scenery.
What is the best time of year to go urban hiking in Hot Springs?
Hot Springs offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide mild temperatures and vibrant foliage, making them ideal. Winter can also be a good time for hiking, with cooler weather and fewer crowds, though some trails might be slick after rain. Summers can be hot and humid, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended.
Where can I park when accessing urban hiking trails in Hot Springs?
Parking is available at various points around Hot Springs National Park and near trailheads. The Gulpha Gorge Campground also provides facilities for parking and accessing trails like the Gulpha Gorge Trail. Downtown Hot Springs also has public parking options within walking distance of many urban routes.
Are there any urban trails that offer panoramic views?
Absolutely! The Peak Trail leads to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, which provides 360-degree panoramic views of the mountains, the national park, and the city. The Goat Rock Trail also culminates in stunning vistas from Goat Rock Overlook.
What do other hikers say about the urban trails in Hot Springs?
The urban trails in Hot Springs are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the unique blend of natural beauty and historical sites, and the accessibility of trails directly from the city.
Are there any accessible urban trails for visitors with varying mobility levels?
Yes, Hot Springs National Park is known for its accessibility. The Grand Promenade, a paved path behind Bathhouse Row, is wheelchair-friendly and offers an easy, flat surface for exploration. The park also provides accessible paths and facilities to ensure visitors with varying mobility levels can enjoy the area. For more details, visit the National Park Service website.
Can I reach the urban hiking trails using public transport?
Hot Springs is one of the most accessible national parks, with parts of the city included within its boundaries. This makes it relatively easy to reach many trailheads and amenities on foot or via local transport options from downtown, reducing the need for a car for some routes.
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