The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Hot Springs National Park
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Hiking in Hot Springs National Park offers an urban national park experience within the Ouachita Mountains. The landscape features rocky slopes, novaculite outcrops, and lush creek valleys, with mixed forests of oak, hickory, and shortleaf pine. The park is known for its 47 thermal springs, which emerge at an average temperature of 143 degrees Fahrenheit (61.7 degrees Celsius). Over 26 miles of trails are available, concentrated in the Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails, and the West Mountain Trails.
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Last updated: July 7, 2026
1.33km
00:24
0m
110m
Hike the easy 0.8-mile Gulpha Gorge Trail in Hot Springs National Park, offering forest views and creek access.
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1.22km
00:26
110m
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An easy 0.8-mile hike in Hot Springs National Park, offering views of the Hot Spring Cascade and historic baths.
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6.35km
01:58
260m
210m
Hike the easy 3.9-mile Sunset Trail to West Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views and natural landmarks in Hot Springs Nationa
1.67km
00:29
70m
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Hike the easy 1.0-mile Goat Rock Trail in Hot Springs National Park for sweeping views of the Ouachita Mountains and Gulpha Gorge.
5.0
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10.6km
03:06
300m
300m
Hike the moderate 6.6-mile Hot Springs Mountain and North Mountain Loop for panoramic views and historic hot springs in Hot Springs National
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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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Just a short walk up off the West Mountain Trail takes you out above the trees to a great viewpoint. There is also parking here from where you can start the hike.
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Many popular hikes can be started from the city center of Hot Springs National Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Hot Springs National Park?
Hot Springs National Park offers over 25 family-friendly hiking trails, with 18 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for all ages and skill levels.
What kind of terrain can families expect on the trails in Hot Springs National Park?
The trails in Hot Springs National Park traverse the beautiful Ouachita Mountains, featuring rocky slopes, novaculite outcrops, and lush creek valleys. You'll find mixed forests of oak, hickory, and shortleaf pine, providing varied scenery. Many family-friendly routes offer relatively gentle inclines, but some may include moderate elevation changes.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families in Hot Springs National Park?
Yes, there are several easy loop options. For a pleasant forest walk, consider the Goat Rock Trail, which is a 1.7 km loop featuring rock formations and diverse forests. Another great option is the Hot Springs Mountain and North Mountain Loop, a longer 10.6 km route that offers mountain views and is rated moderate.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints families can discover along the trails?
Many trails offer access to unique features. You can explore the historic Hot Springs National Park Historic Baths walk, see the Hot Spring Cascade, or enjoy panoramic views from the Goat Rock Overlook. The Hot Springs Mountain Tower also provides 360-degree views of the park and surrounding mountains.
Is Hot Springs National Park dog-friendly for family hikes?
Yes, pets are permitted on all hiking trails within Hot Springs National Park. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
What is the best time of year for families to visit Hot Springs National Park for hiking?
Spring and fall are generally ideal for family hiking in Hot Springs National Park. The temperatures are mild, and the scenery is beautiful, with wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter offers a quieter experience, but some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there any stroller-friendly trails in the park?
While many trails have natural surfaces, the Grand Promenade, a scenic brick walkway connecting Bathhouse Row to nearby trails, is an excellent stroller-friendly option for a relaxing stroll amidst historic architecture and nature. For natural trails, the Gulpha Gorge Trail is an easy 1.3 km route that offers forest views and creek access, which might be manageable with sturdy strollers in dry conditions.
Where can we park when visiting the family-friendly trails?
Parking is available at various points throughout the park, especially near popular trailheads. Many trails, particularly those on Hot Springs and West Mountains, are easily accessible from parking areas within the city of Hot Springs or near the Gulpha Gorge Campground.
What kind of wildlife might we spot on a family hike?
While hiking, families might encounter local wildlife such as chipmunks, white-tailed deer, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for coyotes, and though less common, black bears are also present in the park. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Hot Springs National Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the unique blend of natural beauty and historic attractions, and the accessibility of trails for all ages, making it a perfect destination for family outings.
Are there any longer, but still easy, routes for families looking for more of a challenge?
For families seeking a longer easy hike, the Sunset Trail: West Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain offers a 6.4 km route with diverse terrain and rewarding views. It's rated easy but provides a good distance for active families.
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