Pinnacle Mountain visit offers easy access to great outdoors
Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary writes about Pinnacle Mountain State Park.
I don’t think I’ve ever crossed the Arkansas River bridge on I-430 when I haven’t glanced upstream at the distant, jagged and steep mountain overlooking the drainage area. Pinnacle Mountain towers more than 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River Valley. Pinnacle is one of the most well-known mountains throughout the Ouachitas, and for good reason.
Of course, the destination’s sheer size is partially responsible for its notoriety. But I suspect easy access and the fact that there is a state park located at the base of the beautiful natural structure is also more than reason enough for folks to flock to the destination by the droves.
The state park shares many common denominators with the other parks owned and operated throughout the state. They pretty well all sport impressive visitor centers, interpretive programs and share interesting history pertaining to the natural environment in their general area.
Pinnacle Mountain has a couple other draws, as well. It is within minutes of Little Rock. In fact, it was declared as the first Arkansas state park to adjoin a major metropolitan area in 1977.
But I suspect most folks visiting the facility put little thought, or even know, of this tidbit of history. A huge number of visitors are aware, however, of hiking opportunities galore. In the neighborhood of
2,356 acres of natural habitat rest within the property lines of the facility, lending to ample room for the construction of designated paths of various difficulty levels. In fact, more than
40 miles of trail are maintained by the park.
Kingfisher Trail provides folks with a gentle, half- mile paved path. Of course, this is a popular destination for those with physical limitations, as well as those with young children. Even those who are pushing a baby stroller can still get out and enjoy the outdoors via this designated path.
The route runs within feet of bald cypress trees that are taking root along the edge of the Little Maumelle River. Some of these trees are estimated to be
500-600 years old. Those hiking along this particular path during the warmer months of the year should be armed with insect repellent. However, hikers will not likely be plagued with mosquitoes or other pesky insects throughout the winter months.
The Arkansas Trail makes a
0.75-mile journey through the
80- acre Arkansas Arboretum. The paved, barrier-free path is designed with educational purposes in mind. Those hiking along this particular route will have an opportunity to acquire a better understanding of the variety and values of Arkansas’ trees and forests.
Although the Scenic Overlook’s destination is only 75 yards from the parking lot, this particular path sees its fair share of foot traffic. And why might so many be drawn to this trail? Well, anybody who has partaken upon this short walk will likely be quick to agree that the view at the walk’s end is well worth seeing.
From the vista, one can see the Arkansas River Valley, Lake Maumelle and Pinnacle Mountain. This is also a great spot from where one can see hawks going about their annual migration during the fall season.
There are several other short trails throughout the park. But let’s get down to the nuts and bolts of things — that’s right, let’s talk about the three premier designated routes that most beckon those with a passion for kicking around in the wonderful outdoors.
Of course, the park has a couple of designated paths that lead to the very tiptop of the mountain. And, of course, both of these paths are strenuous.
West Summit Trail begins near the middle of the picnic area. Although only three-quarters of a mile separates the summit from the trailhead, that is no indication the trek is a piece of cake. In fact, it is suggested that the hiker allows in the neighborhood of 45 minutes to reach the trail’s end. And due to the fact that a portion of the route is both steep and rugged, it is suggested that one also allow 45 minutes to return back to the starting point.
The East Summit is also about three-quarters of a mile in length and lends to a strenuous ascent to atop the mountain. In fact, those hiking along this particular path will have to cross several boulder fields during their journey.
So both trails are obviously capable of testing one’s physical stamina. But I’ll be quick to share that those who choose to tackle and complete either of these two routes are in for an incredible view. In fact, one should allow ample time to simply kick back and savor the scenery upon reaching the summit.
Now for the longest trail of all. Let’s talk about a path stretching 235 miles, as the Ouachita National Trail starts at Pinnacle Mountain State Park and continues on an eastward journey until finally ending in Oklahoma.
Of course, this trail cannot be covered in one day. One should plan on two or three weeks if they expect to tackle it in one excursion. Fortunately, there are many access points along the way, lending to ample opportunities for one to experience the entire trail system in segments.
How about those with a passion for biking? Well, it just so happens that mountain biking trails also cut their way through the state park.
Beginning riders might consider a journey along the Rabbit Ridge Mountain Biking Trail. The path only consists of
0.7 mile and is novice-friendly. There are a few slight obstacles and mild climbs along the way, allowing the beginning rider to hone their skills prior to embarking upon an excursion along a more lengthy and difficult route. Those experiencing a ride along this particular path will eventually reach a bench atop a ridge; a perfect spot to stop and enjoy the scenery while catching one’s breath.
Jackfork Mountain Bike Trail is more suited for intermediate and advanced riders. The path cuts its way in the neighborhood of 6.5 miles through a forested terrain. Elevation gains, rocks, sharp turns and other obstacles capable of keeping the rider occupied lurk throughout the trail. In fact, some intermediate riders might find it necessary to occasionally unseat and push their bikes through some of the more trying sections.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park also sports yet another kind of trail. That’s right, the Little Maumelle Water Trail begins at the park and winds for
4.5 miles along the main channel of the small river.
I have previously embarked upon this float and enjoyed the excursion immensely. Of course, many retire their kayaks during the winter, and rightfully so. But I would suspect a float along this section of water during the next few months would prove enjoyable, as migratory waterfowl and other native critters would be readily be seen going about their everyday rituals.
The opportunities awaiting outdoor enthusiasts are far more plentiful than mentioned in this article. That in mind, one might consider stopping in at this destination the next time they plan a trip to the big city.
To get to the state park, take Exit 9 off I-430 at Little Rock and travel 7 miles west on Highway 10. Turn right onto Highway
300 and travel 2 miles to the park’s entrance on the right.