No need to travel far to have an unforgettable family outdoor adventure! With a mix of outdoor exploration, hands-on learning, and fun-filled activities, Northwest Arkansas offers something for every family. Whether you’re taking a quick day trip, spending the afternoon at a museum, or enjoying local parks, you’ll find endless opportunities to make spring break special.
Get out, explore, and create lasting memories right here in Northwest Arkansas!
Easy Family Hikes Near Northwest Arkansas
If you’re looking for a fun way to get outdoors with your kids but don’t want to venture too far from home, Northwest Arkansas has plenty of great hiking trails perfect for families. Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, walking along scenic creeks, or taking in stunning mountain views, these easy trails are great for spring break, summer outings, or entertaining out-of-town guests.
Scenic and Waterfall Hikes in Northwest Arkansas
Moonshiner’s Cave
Difficulty: Easy
A short but adventurous hike near Winslow that takes you to a hidden cave with a waterfall—kids will love the sense of discovery! Some uneven terrain, but it is manageable for most ages.
Tanyard Creek | Bella Vista
Difficulty: Easy
This peaceful loop trail features a scenic waterfall, creek crossings, and a suspension bridge, making it an engaging walk for kids. It also has plenty of shaded spots, making it great for hot days.
Lost Valley Waterfall | Ponca
Difficulty: Moderate
One of the most beloved hikes in Arkansas, this trail leads to a stunning waterfall and a cave. Perfect for families who want a bit of adventure! Some rocky areas may require careful footing.
Hawksbill Crag | Ponca
Difficulty: Moderate
A classic Arkansas hike with one of the most famous overlooks in the state. The hike is moderate, but the payoff is a breathtaking view. Be mindful of the steep drop-offs with young kids.
Eagle Watch Nature Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Located near Gentry, this trail is a great place to spot eagles and other wildlife in their natural habitat. A flat and short trail, perfect for little explorers.
Devil’s Kitchen Trail
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Located in Petit Jean State Park, this short but scenic hike takes you past unique rock formations and a historic cave. Some areas have slight elevation changes.
Blowing Springs Trail | Bella Vista
Difficulty: Easy
This scenic trail offers waterfalls, small caves, and beautiful rock formations, making it a great family-friendly hike. A mix of paved and natural paths.
Mount Kessler | Fayetteville
Difficulty: Moderate
Enjoy breathtaking views and beautiful forested trails on this moderately easy hike just outside of Fayetteville. Some inclines but nothing too strenuous.
Coyote Cave Trail | Springdale
Difficulty: Easy
A fun and lesser-known trail featuring a small cave and scenic rock formations, great for a short family adventure. A quick, rewarding hike.
State Park Trails in Northwest Arkansas
Van Winkle Trail
Difficulty: Easy
An easy, shaded trail with interpretive signs about the area’s history, located in Hobbs State Park. A great educational stop for families.
Hobbs State Park Trails
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
With several family-friendly trails, Hobbs offers plenty of options for exploring forests, creeks, and scenic overlooks. The Shaddox Hollow Trail is particularly popular.
Pea Ridge National Military Park
Difficulty: Easy
Walk from the visitor center to Elkhorn Tavern along a scenic, paved path that takes you through Civil War history. A great mix of history and nature.
Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park
Difficulty: Easy
Take the paved path from the orchard down around the Union campgrounds for an easy, scenic stroll through history. A flat, family-friendly walk.
Devil’s Den Trail or Yellow Rock Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Both trails offer stunning views, rock formations, and a true taste of the Ozarks’ natural beauty. Yellow Rock has a gorgeous overlook, while Devil’s Den features caves and unique formations.
Shaddox Hollow Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
A peaceful hike in Hobbs State Park with a mix of forest scenery and bluff views. Some elevation changes make it a good step up from beginner trails.
Check out this guide for exploring Arkansas State Parks in Northwest Arkansas.
Urban and Lake Trails in Northwest Arkansas
Crystal Bridges Trails
Difficulty: Easy
These well-maintained trails wind through art installations, creeks, and forests, making for an engaging outdoor experience right in Bentonville. Paved and stroller-friendly.
Waterfall Trail
Difficulty: Easy
This hidden gem is an easy trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall, making it great for a quick family outing. A short and rewarding walk.
Lake Fayetteville
Difficulty: Easy
A scenic, paved loop around the lake pis erfect for walking, biking, or pushing a stroller. Plenty of playgrounds and picnic areas along the path.
Lake Atalanta Trail
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The Rogers Trail features multiple routes around the lake, complete with boardwalks, bridges, and excellent picnic spots. Some trails have gentle inclines and are sometimes hard for kids on wheels to manage.
Lake Fort Smith
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Enjoy beautiful lake views along the many easy trails in this state park. Some trails may have mild elevation changes.
Hunt Nature Center
Difficulty: Easy
An excellent option for young kids, this trail features paved walkways and boardwalks, making it ideal for little legs. Lots of educational opportunities along the way.
Get Outside and Explore
No matter your family’s hiking experience, these trails offer easy and enjoyable ways to explore Northwest Arkansas. Whether you want waterfalls, wildlife, historical sites, or paved paths perfect for strollers, there’s something for everyone. Grab your hiking shoes, pack some snacks, and get ready to make some unforgettable outdoor memories!
If you’re trying to explore Arkansas and don’t know where to start, let me offer some additional ideas!
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