Arkansas Arboretum Trail offers pure natural beauty
Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary writes about Arkansas Arboretum Trail.
This is that magical time of the year when there simply aren’t enough hours of daylight. The rumble of gobblers beckoning their harem of hens resonates through the mountains and valleys. Many of the fish species in our lakes are also in the midst of replenishing the waters and are quick to respond to anglers’ presentations. And let’s not forget a forest floor that is coming to life with succulent plants and brilliant blooms.
But since there are only so many hours in a day, I must prioritize. I’m certainly no stranger to turkey hunting. But on the other hand, one would be hard-pressed to entice me into kicking through the woods when the fish are biting. And although I truly have a passion for macro photography, the wildflowers, too, will have to wait until the fishing activity lessens.
I recently, however, chose to leave the boat parked and partake in another outdoor activity. Sandy and I were headed to Little Rock for the afternoon. So why not spend a portion of the day hiking along a nearby trail?
I grew somewhat excited when Sandy mentioned the Arkansas Arboretum Trail. Although extremely short in comparison to other designated paths throughout the state, I couldn’t think of a better destination.
The trail was only sixtenths of a mile in length, but the path made its way through a 79-acre arboretum. This was the perfect time of the year to get out and explore an area that would obviously boast an array of trees and plant life.
We arrived at the parking area a short distance beyond the intersection leading to Pinnacle Mountain State Park Visitor Center. The destination was very easy to find, as the parking area is well marked and located within a few feet of road.
I donned my camera bag and secured my tripod upon arrival, and we were on our way. It quickly grew obvious that this was a destination that could be experienced by practically anybody with an appreciation for the outdoors. The paved loop was wide and ran level through the wooded area. However, a portion of the terrain is low-lying. In turn, one might expect to get their feet wet immediately after or during heavy rains.
I was instantly impressed, as we noticed a couple of wildflower species blooming within a stone’s throw of the trailhead. The vibrant yellow blooms of groundsel rested atop tall stems and swayed in the slight breeze. Looking closer to the ground, we noticed yet other yellow blooms a colony of wood sorrel took root in the fertile soil.
We also happened upon a species that I could not identify with certainty. The basal plant sported long and narrow leaves, slightly resembling those of yucca plants. However, the foliage lacked sharp points and didn’t appear as hearty. I assumed we might have happened upon spider lilies. However, these plants will not make a true showing until finally blooming in May.
Several other plant species thrived in the environment. In fact, the trail made its way through a diversity of habitats capable of supporting an array of species.
Speaking of environments, small areas were utilized as examples of various regions of the state. And an interpretive station was located at each specified environment. Each station sported an interesting apparatus. These audio boxes were powered by turning a handle and shared interesting information pertaining to the region that was represented along that particular section of the trail.
There were also a couple of short trails that looped through the woods, along natural terrain prior to tying back into the main path. These short excursions were also well worth experiencing as they simply lead the hiker a little deeper into the forest.
Another spur trail leads to the banks of the Little Maumelle River. This would prove a perfect location where one could take a seat on the bench and savor the atmosphere while watching for wildlife.
One is apt to see wading and other water-loving birds feeding near the river’s edge. And I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised to see whitetails or other mammals browsing to and fro.
There was ample water along the trail’s edge during our recent hike, as the state had experienced a significant rainfall the night prior. I would suspect a good portion of this standing water would be gone during normal conditions, though.
The trail did cross a small creek, however, that would likely remain running, at least through the wetters seasons. And although many do not like snakes, this would be a great location where one might have the opportunity to see one of these reptiles sunning. In fact, one is apt to happen across a snake throughout the entire trail.
Although anticipating an opportunity to photograph wildflowers, I was most impressed with the diversity of tree species taking root within sight of the paved path. Of course, I have an appreciation for the species that are more common throughout the Ouachita Mountain Region. But I was most eager to get better acquainted with trees that are not as easily found in our neck of the woods.
I’ve always been intrigued with shagbark hickories. And it just so happened that several specimens towered within sight of the path. Water tupelos were also featured at one station. And this is a tree that predominantly thrives in the swamps cutting their way through the delta.
We also noticed several red buckeye trees in full bloom. Although I have found this particular species on a fairly regular basis, it is one of my favorites. This particular tree certainly has aesthetic values. But I am most intrigued with the superstition that those carrying the fruit in their pockets will experience good luck. In fact, I know people who would not be caught in the deer woods without their “lucky” buckeye in their pocket.
Although the trail is extremely easy, that’s no indication the benches situated along the rote should be ignored. In fact, I can’t think of a better location where one can simply kick back and savor serenity under the canopy of a forest.
Although our trek along the Arkansas Arboretum Trail was short, it was a journey that was bountiful with interesting information and pure beauty. And even though I have now experienced a walk along this path, I suspect I’ll return during the winter months to hone my tree identification skills when the canopy is barren of leaves.
To get to the trail from Hot Springs travel east for 19 miles on Highway 70 and merge onto Interstate 30. Go 18 miles on
I-30 and take the Interstate 430 exit (Exit 129). Travel 9.2 miles, take Exit 9 and take a left onto Arkansas Cantrell/Highway
10. Go approximately 2.8 miles and take a right onto Pinnacle Valley Road. Remain on Pinnacle Valley Road for about 5 miles and the parking area will be situated on the left.