3 AMAZING Kids Hiking Trails for Unforgettable Arkansas Adventures

Updated: April 2024

Kids’ eyes can be opened to a whole new world while hiking. But, hiking with kids can be tricky. You need the right supplies, the right preparation, and the right kids hiking trails to minimize stress and maximize FUN!

Here are 4 amazing kids hiking trail options in Arkansas that my son loves…

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Choosing good kids hiking trails takes some work. Some things to look for are hiking trails that are easy or lightly moderately challenging and a manageable distance for your kiddo.

Also, look for good trail features such as great views, rocks to climb on, and/or water to play in.

Kids Hiking Trails #1: Yellow Rock Trail @ Devil’s Den State Park

One of our favorite kids hiking trails is at Devil’s Den State Park. This trail can be long if you take the 3.10-mile loop. But from the starting point at the CCC Overlook, an out and back to the Yellow Rock Overlook is about half of that distance.

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This is a great trail that can be managed by younger kids, offers rocks to climb on, AND has a beautiful overview. Caution should be taken with kids at the outlook point.

YELLOW ROCK TRAILHEAD

Kids Hiking Trails #2: White Rock Rim Trail @ White Rock Recreation Area

This 2-mile loop around the top of White Rock Mountain is an easy hiking trail for kids. It’s fairly level ground, with multiple gorgeous viewpoints. Shelters are scattered along the path to offer seated rest, shade, and play for kids.

This is another trail that caution should be taken since the trail sets on the mountain’s edge during the entire loop.

WHITE ROCK OVERLOOK TRAILHEAD

Kids Hiking Trails #3: Whitaker Point Trail in Kingston, AR

This is one of my favorite hiking trails for kids. This 2.9-mile out-and-back trail is moderately challenging, especially on the uphill trek at the end of the hike. It usually requires a rest break or 2 for my kid to make it to the top.

This trail has plenty of rocks for climbing and exploring. If there has been recent rainfall, there are small creeks that lead to waterfalls they can explore.

The overlook at the end is SPECTACULAR, and Arkansas’s most photographed spot. As a bonus, leave out at dark (if safe and suitable for your child) to reach the point in time to watch the sunrise. It takes up to 45 minutes to hike to the point at a comfortable pace.

WHITAKER POINT TRAILHEAD

Kids Hiking Trails #4: Lost Valley in Ponca, AR

Of the kids hiking trails, my son enjoyed this one the most due to the diversity. Along this path, we played in creeks, climbed on rocks, saw a few waterfalls, and explored a cave (with another waterfall inside!)

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LOST VALLEY TRAILHEAD

Supplies and Activities

Just as important as finding the perfect kids hiking trails, is bringing along the right supplies. A small backpack is beneficial for the child to carry their supplies to access them when they want.

A standard backpack, fitted to their size, that sits flush against the back, works well. Avoid drawstring bags, which can easily get in the way during climbing, running, and playing.

Be sure to pack water and small snacks. I like to pack nature activities and books to add to the child’s experience, as well as binoculars, a notepad, a pen, sunglasses, and a multi-tool that is safe for children.

Hiking Apparel For Kids

Choose well-fitting, moisture-wicking clothes. And always dress in layers that are easy to remove as the kid warms up. Proper fitting athletic shoes are best for safety and function.

If a child is a frequent hiker or starts hiking more challenging trails, a pair of hiking shoes will be beneficial (more support, traction, and waterproof).

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Benefits of Hiking for Kids

Hiking can be incredibly beneficial for children. It has obvious physical benefits. But, there are also the mental and emotional benefits of being out in nature with the ones you love and seeing amazing new things for the first time as a family.

These 4 trails are a good starting point for an NWA family, but don’t stop there! These moments will be what make memories that your child will cherish for years to come.

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For more family fun ideas, check out The Ultimate Fall 2023 Bucket List For Families by THIS FATHERS PERSPECTIVE