Petit Jean offers scenic views, outdoor activities galore
Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary takes readers on a journey to Petit Jean State Park.
I suppose most would concur that there are more than enough issues, at present, that are controversial. I can’t recall a time during my life when folks were more passionate about their political views.
And the current pandemic? It has certainly fueled differences of opinions and disagreements. In fact, both issues have literally dismantled relationships of friends and families beyond repair.
That all being said, there is yet another thing that we can all agree upon. As Arkansans, we are blessed with outdoor opportunities galore. Millions of acres of public lands are at our disposal — some sporting sheer beauty, some providing a medium for folks to experience their favorite outdoor activity, and others are rich in history.
There are locations where one can strike out and explore an uncontrolled environment in complete solitude. However, many are not comfortable with embarking upon such excursions.
And why might one avoid such environments? I can’t accurately answer that particular question, as their reasons might be several-fold. But I can say one thing with all confidence. It’s not necessarily an indication that they lack a passion for the wonderful outdoors.
Fortunately, there are a number of destinations throughout the state where one can take in the beautiful scenery and savor a stint in the midst of Mother Nature without leaving the conveniences that we have all grown to depend upon behind.
In fact, 52 state parks are scattered throughout the state, and each and every one is special within its own right. Some lend to opportunities to strike out along designated trails meandering through mountainous terrain and providing incredible views. Others are perched on the banks of rivers and reservoirs. And then there are those that are situated where a historical event transpired during a different era of time.
Then there are those parks that have a little something to offer everyone, regardless of their interest. The only prerequisite to enjoying these facilities is an inquisitive mind and an appreciation for clean, fresh air.
That all being said, today’s article will lead us to one of such state parks. In fact, Petit Jean is likely one of the most- visited state parks throughout Arkansas, and for good reason.
There is surely plenty to keep one occupied at the facility. But let’s first address its rich history. One might find it interesting that Petit Jean became Arkansas’ first state park. Nestled atop Petit Jean Mountain, between the Ouachitas and Ozarks, it towers above a winding Arkansas River below and consists of 2,658 acres.
Construction of the facility began in 1933, via CCC workers. The crews utilized native natural resources to build roads, bridges, trails and buildings. And the fact that a number of their projects are still in use at present is a testimony to the quality of their workmanship.
One might also ask how the mountain and facility acquired the name that they share. Well, according to folklore, it’s somewhat of a romantic tale.
It all began in the 1700s when a European ship set sail to “The New World.” A young French girl named Adrienne Dumont was surely in love with one of the sailors, and could not bear to see him leave.
In turn, she devised a scheme that would allow her to remain with her beloved. She would simply disguise herself as a cabin boy under the alias of Jean. Jean was rather small in comparison to her fellow sailors. Hence her acquired nickname of “Petit Jean,” French for “Little John.”
One might suppose that Petit Jean’s scheme went as planned for a while. However, her true identity was eventually divulged when she became ill.
The illness she suffered is not exactly clear. However, it has been suggested that she contracted swamp fever while nursing her beloved back to health from the same disease. Regardless of the diagnosis, the illness was serious. In fact, the Petit sailor eventually succumbed to her illness and was buried atop the mountain that now shares her namesake.
Although it is one’s choice to believe, or not, the story of Petit Jean, those who visit the state park will have an opportunity to see a small fenced area atop the jagged mountain overlooking the river, where it is believed she was laid to rest.
OK, we have a pretty good depiction of the mountain’s historical significance. So let’s dabble with what the state park has to offer to the outdoor enthusiast.
Just as one might suspect, incredible views of deep valleys nestled between distant mountains await those who visit this particular facility. In fact, one can see for miles from both ends of the park.
The vista near Petit Jean’s grave site overlooks the Arkansas River meandering through lush farmlands. The vista located beside Mather’s Lodge, on the opposing end of the park lends to an incredible view of distant mountains blanketed with a bountiful forest.
There is yet another vista within the perimeters of the facility that is equally as impressive as the aforementioned. This little spot lends to a view of one of the most impressive waterfalls throughout the entire state. From the vista, one can see a distant Cedar Falls plummeting 90 feet into a small pool secluded in a canyon below.
The view from above is impressive. Those who are physically prepared can actually embark upon a hike along the Cedar Falls Trail to the base of the falls during normal circumstances, However, the route is presently closed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
But once regulations are lifted, those who choose to embark upon a hike along the trail should be prepared for a 200-foot descent via steps made of native boulders more than 60 years ago.
The 2- mile journey to the falls and back might prove somewhat strenuous. But one will be well rewarded for their efforts, as the path eventually crosses the drainage area via a footbridge and runs alongside the lush streamside prior to arriving at the falls.
Hikers might also enjoy a jaunt along one of the state park’s other trails. Seven Hollows Trail runs alongside a natural bridge and through a grotto during its 4.5-mile journey.
The Cedar Creek Trail begins at the “Pioneer Cabin” and meanders 1.25 miles before returning to the trailhead and the Bear Cave Trail travels a quarter of a mile through over and around huge boulders.
The Rockhouse Cave Trail is by far my favorite, as it leads hikers a short distance to beneath a huge rock shelter. Faint remains of pictographs on the ceiling are a strong indication that Native Americans once inhabited this structure. And the huge rock formations directly in front of the overhang strongly resemble turtle shells.
Of course, a facility of this proportion offers camping opportunities and sports cabins. And let’s not forget about the restaurant located at Mather’s Lodge.
Yep, Petit Jean State Park is certainly a jewel nestled between the Ozark and Ouachita mountains. And it is a destination where just about anybody with an appreciation for the wonderful outdoors can spend hours savoring clean, fresh air in the midst of Mother Nature.
To get to Petit Jean from Hot Springs, travel north on Park Avenue for 14 miles and take a left onto Highway 9, at the Crow Community. Go 21 miles and turn left onto Highway 10 at Williams Junction. Remain on Highway 10 for 18 miles and take a left onto 154 and follow the road 12 miles to the park.