The best city hikes and walks in Garland County
4.6
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Urban hiking trails in Garland County, Arkansas, are primarily situated within the Ouachita Mountains, offering a diverse landscape of forested peaks and valleys. The region is notable for Hot Springs National Park, a unique urban national park featuring rocky mountain slopes and historic thermal springs. Trails often provide views of the surrounding mountains and lead through areas with natural springs and dense woodlands. This varied terrain provides options for different ability levels within an urban setting.
Best urban hiking trailsβ¦
Last updated: May 11, 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 Garland County?
Garland County offers a diverse selection of over 25 urban hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate excursions. This includes 20 easy routes and 6 moderate routes, ensuring options for various fitness levels.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on urban hikes in Garland County?
Urban hikes in Garland County often feature the unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm. You can explore forested peaks and valleys of the Ouachita Mountains, discover historic thermal springs, and encounter picturesque waterfalls like the Hot Spring Cascade. The region's trails also offer glimpses of clear lakes and lush botanical settings.
Are there any family-friendly urban trails in Garland County?
Yes, many urban trails in Garland County are suitable for families. The area boasts 20 easy routes, perfect for a leisurely walk with children. Trails within Hot Springs National Park, such as the Oertel Trail, offer accessible and engaging experiences for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on urban hikes in Garland County?
Many trails in Garland County are dog-friendly, especially those within Hot Springs National Park, provided your dog is on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, but generally, the natural settings offer great opportunities for you and your canine companion to explore together.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions along the urban hiking routes?
Urban hikes in Garland County are rich with historical and natural landmarks. You can walk past the historic bathhouses like Hot Springs National Park Historic Baths walk, Buckstaff Baths, and the Historic Maurice Bathhouse. Don't miss the stunning Garvan Woodland Gardens for a unique botanical experience, or the natural beauty of the Hot Spring Cascade.
Are there any urban hiking trails that offer scenic viewpoints?
Absolutely. Trails like the Peak Trail and the Goat Rock Trail provide excellent opportunities for scenic overlooks, offering views of the Ouachita Mountains and the surrounding landscape. The region's varied terrain ensures many picturesque spots.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Garland County?
Garland County offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, making them ideal. Summers can be warm, but early mornings or late afternoons are still enjoyable. Winters are generally mild, allowing for comfortable hiking, especially on sunny days.
Are there any loop trails for urban hiking in Garland County?
Yes, Garland County features several excellent loop trails for urban hikers. A notable option is the Hot Springs Mountain and North Mountain Loop, which offers a comprehensive experience through the national park's diverse scenery.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Garland County?
The komoot community highly rates urban hiking in Garland County, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique combination of natural beauty within an urban setting, the well-maintained trails, and the historical significance of areas like Hot Springs National Park. The accessibility of trails and the variety of options for different skill levels are also frequently highlighted.
Is parking available at the trailheads for urban hikes?
Parking is generally available at or near the trailheads for urban hikes in Garland County, particularly within Hot Springs National Park and other popular areas. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages or local park websites.
Are there any urban trails that lead to waterfalls?
Yes, you can find urban trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls. The Gulpha Gorge Trail, for example, offers access to the stunning Hot Spring Cascade, providing a refreshing natural highlight during your hike.
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