Take a hike: Sunset Trail just one of many ways to enjoy Hot Springs National Parks
Last year, outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary, who is featured regularly in The Sentinel-record, took readers on a six-part journey along the Sunset Trail. For our annual Progress edition, we’ve combined the popular series, which details the natural wonders and outdoor activities available in Hot Springs National Park.
PART ONE
Today we will begin a journey along the Sunset Trail, which starts at Gulpha Gorge Campground and winds approximately 10 miles prior to ending atop West Mountain.
I am aware that 10 miles could prove somewhat daunting to some, especially since this particular designated path is not shy about heading abruptly up steep mountainsides from time to time.
Fortunately, there are five access points along the way. And in turn, we can break the trail up into four separate hikes.
But wait; there’s more. In lieu of ending the excursion at the trail’s southernmost terminus, we’ll utilize a series of other trails to lead us right back Gulpha Gorge, where the journey originally began.
Before we strike out, let’s begin with a general description of the Sunset Trail. Having hiked all of the designated routes meandering within the perimeters of the Hot Springs National Park, I think it would be safe to say that the Sunset Trail is one of the more challenging.
Of course, the sheer distance of the trail has something to do with its difficulty level. But we have the distance issue covered.
However, there is yet another issue that we have already touched upon, as well. There are several significant ascents lurking along the way, some of which are short, and others of which seem to go on and on.
But one should not allow these hills to deter them from experiencing a jaunt along this route. I will do my best to warn those who are intending to hike the trail of significant climbs lurking within each section of the designated path. In turn, one can simply allow a little extra time to slow their pace or perhaps stop for breathers along the way.
I’ll be the first to admit that these occasional climbs might prove somewhat taxing, especially to those whose physical conditioning is not up to snuff. But one can rest assured that the reward will far outweigh the effort, as the trail makes its way through a beautiful natural environment, lending to occasional vistas of neighboring mountains and a distant Hot Springs, settled in the valley below.
OK, back to today’s hike. Those who are not confident in their physical preparedness might find it comforting to know that we will begin with the easiest section.
The trek from the Gulpha Gorge Campground to Ricks Pond is only about 1.2 miles in length. And although there is one ascent along the way that is worthy of mention, the climb is rather short. In fact, one will hardly gain 100 feet in elevation during the 0.1-mile ascent.
From the parking area, near the amphitheater, the trail crosses the creek, via large flat boulders strategically placed where one can easily keep dry feet. The designated path veers to the right immediately after the crossing and heads into the woods.
OK, let’s just get the aforementioned climb behind us. The trail heads uphill pretty much immediately after entering the woods. Just hang in there, as the ascent be over soon. And one can anticipate a rather mild and pleasant walk during the remainder of the hike.
Well, there is yet one more spot that might prove somewhat problematic to some, a short distance farther down the trail. However, it’s not an ascent, Instead, it’s a spot where a rock structure spans the designated path.
It’s not overly difficult to navigate the large step down. However, one might consider paying close attention to their footing. And those with weak knees, ankles or hips might consider using a walking staff at this point.
The trail will run along a bench overlooking the Gorge Road for a distance prior to veering a little to the left, leaving the rock substrate behind and entering more welcoming environment.
The designated path makes its way along an old road bed. In fact, those walking along the route will actually be traversing
the original road that traveled through the gorge. I am unsure of when the new road was built. But according to information I found online, the bridges were built between 1936 and 1937.
The old roadbed is contained on the left-hand side by a steep hillside. However, the substrate on the right-hand side of the trail drops down into the drainage area of Gulpha Creek.
In turn, the left-hand side of the trail produces a jagged environment that is typical of the mountainous region of the Ouachitas. The environment to the right, however, is noticeably lusher.
Although the trail veers out
of sight of the present Gorge Road, one can still hear vehicles traveling along the paved surface. The trail eventually runs within sight of the road again, and remains within an eye shot until finally arriving at and crossing the road just before reaching the Highway 5 and Gorge Road intersection.
After crossing Gorge Road, the trail travels a few feet and makes a hard left-hand turn, crossing Park Avenue/highway 7, directly across from the Stonebridge Road intersection.
The path will pretty much parallel Stonebridge for the remainder of the walk. Although the designated path runs alongside
the road for 0.3 miles, that is no indication that this section of the walk is boring. In fact, this might actually be the most scenic.
The trail makes its way within a stone’s throw of the remnants of an old generator mill. I suspect many will be compelled to get a closer look. But one should be mindful of safety while checking out the ruins. In a nutshell, avoid climbing on the structure. And of course, be aware that snakes and other critters might call the ruins home.
The trail then veers back in the direction of and continues to parallel Stonebridge as it comes within sight of a dam spanning the draw to the left.
Although the recent dry conditions have slowed the water pouring over the dam at present, the structure is actually very impressive during the wetter months of the year. And what might lurk on the upper side of the dam? You got it. Those who trek just a little farther will be welcomed by the natural beauty awaiting at Ricks Pond, and the perfect setting for our initial hike along a section of the Sunset Trail to end.
Although one is also apt to feel compelled to explore the beautiful pond, be aware that private property contains the opposing side of the small reservoir. I suppose this would also prove the most opportune time to mention that there is ample room to park a vehicle between the road and the pond.
OK, here we are. The first walk of our series is behind us. And I am confident that those who are up for the next section will find the upcoming trek equally as rewarding.
PART TWO
The initial hike began at the Gulpha Gorge Recreation Area and generally meandered alongside Gulpha Creek prior to where it crossed Highway 7 and paralleled Stonebridge Road for a short jaunt to where we ended the trek at Ricks Pond.
Next, we’ll embark upon a nice journey in the neighborhood of 2.5 miles before stopping where the designated path crosses Cedar Glades Road.
I’ll be the first to suggest that this walk is a tad bit more difficult. It stretches just over a mile longer and is somewhat more physically demanding, as a long and steep incline lurks along the way. But as I suggested in the previous destination article, those who are not physically prepared to tackle a long, steep climb can simply allow a little extra time to stop, catch one’s breath and take in the scenery during the ascent.
It’s important to remember that it’s not a race. In fact, those who stop, catch their breath and savor their surroundings from time to time are apt to notice things that those of us who are always in a hurry never have the pleasure of seeing.
There is also a spur trail along this particular walk that some might consider, as well. But we’ll talk about that route when we reach the intersection in the description.
OK, let’s get started. Parking alongside the road at Ricks Pond, the trail immediately crosses Stonebridge and makes its way into a wooded area. There are a few rolling hills along this section of the path, none of which should be dreaded. In fact, the mild ascents lend to a perfect opportunity to get one’s blood flowing and their muscles warmed up prior to embarking upon the aforementioned climb.
The trail meanders through a mixed forest for just over 0.5 miles, prior to entering a low-lying area and crossing a dim road. Although this section of the path was dry during our most recent excursion, it is not uncommon for the ground to be saturated and sometimes standing in water during the wetter seasons of the year.
The trail heads slightly uphill shortly after crossing the dim road. And the ascent grows noticeably steeper as the trail continues. Up and up it goes. In fact, the trail gains 275 feet in hardly one-half of a mile.
But just hang in there, though, as the route eventually tops out on the ridgeline. And the worst of the climbs is now history.
OK, with the dreaded climb behind us, the trail follows the contour of the mountaintop, remaining fairly level, while making a sharp bend to the left. This is one of those spots where I always anticipate seeing a whitetail bounding from the thicket and disappearing into the woods.
The trail meanders a short distance through an area where small saplings thrive on the right-hand side, as it makes its way to the aforementioned intersection of yet another trail. I have taken a detour at this point several times throughout the years and embarked upon a trek along the Fordyce Peaks Trail. And I can’t recall a jaunt along this 1.2-mile path that I failed to enjoy.
However, I do find it important to mention that the route hardly lends an easy walk. In fact, it makes a very steep and long ascent prior to reaching its destination. It is noticeably more strenuous than the hill we just climbed
Those who zipped right up the ascent lurking on the Sunset Trail might also find the walk along the Fordyce Peak Trail a pleasure. But I would suggest that those who struggled to make the initial climb might consider returning at a later date, when they are more physically prepared.
From the intersection, the Sunset Trail continues straight and relatively level, while continuing to follow the contour of the ridgeline. It enters open woods soon thereafter, consisting of both pines and hardwoods. This is also an environment where those who tread quietly stand a chance of seeing a whitetail going about its everyday rituals. In fact, one is apt to see pretty much any native wildlife using the area.
The trail eventually heads sightly downhill and makes its way to yet another trail intersection. I’m pretty sure this is part of the Northwoods Trail System. However, I have yet to travel along this particular path.
The trail then makes a fairly steep, yet short, ascent, heads back down the hill and embarks upon yet another climb and heads steeply back down the opposing side of the hill.
OK, I think it’s safe to say that a majority of the climbs and descents are behind us now. The route meanders through typical Ouachita Mountain terrain and eventually runs alongside a large concrete water tower on the left. It continues at a fairly level pace for a short distance, to a parking area and the path crosses Cedar Glades Road. This is also where we’ll stop our hike, until our next excursion.
This particular section of the Sunset Trail is by far my favorite. Granted, we will traverse sections in the near future that are noticeably more scenic, as several vistas of a distant Hot Springs settled in the valley lurk ahead.
However, there is something about this section of trail that lends to a sense of being farther from the hustles and bustles of the city. And as strange as some might find it, I truly appreciate the option of straying from the main path and striking out on a jaunt along a spur trail that seems to meander even farther into the depths of the wonderful outdoors.
And those who are not into a physically demanding climb? I’m confident that you’ll find your walk along the main trail equally as enjoyable.
To get to Ricks Pond from Hot Springs, travel north on Park Avenue (Highway 7) for approximately 2 miles and turn left onto Stonebridge Road, just before reaching Desoto Park and directly across the road from the Gulpha Gorge Intersection. Remain on Stonebridge Road for a short distance and park at the wide spot on the left hand side of the road beside the reservoir.
To get to the Cedar Glades Road Trailhead from Hot Springs, head north on Park Avenue and turn left onto Whittington Avenue. Remain on Whittington for 200 feet and turn right onto Cedar Street, beside the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts. Travel 0.4 miles and veer right onto Cedar Glades Road. Follow Cedar Glades over the hill and the parking area will be located on the right.
PART THREE
Well, here we are, already in the third series of trails and trail segments that will eventually make a complete circle around Hot Springs. We’ve traveled right at 4 miles, thus far, and we have in the neighborhood of 9 more miles before reaching the point where the excursion began.
We started this journey at an elevation of 537 feet and were sitting at 884 feet upon the completion of the last article. Well, one can expect to gain a little more elevation before today’s walk is behind us. In fact, we’ll end today’s journey at 934 feet of elevation.
The trek from Cedar Glades Road to Blacksnake road is by far the most lengthy walk we will have embarked upon, thus far, as we can plan on logging right at 3 miles prior to the hike’s end.
Although the elevation gain from the starting point to where we will end is only 50 feet, don’t allow these numbers to fool you. There are a number of significant climbs and descents lurking in between In fact, I’ll step out on a limb and suggest that this might be one of the most difficult sections of the entire
walk.
That being said, I’ll reiterate a statement from one of the previous articles focusing on this series. This is not a race. And one should not necessarily allow a few long and steep climbs to deter them from experiencing the journey. There’s certainly nothing wrong with one stopping for a breather from time to time.
That being said, those who are considering the trek know their physical restraints and capabilities
far better than anyone else. And one should strongly consider whatever that little voice inside of them might suggest.
There are those who can knock this particular section of trail out in an hour. But experience has taught me that the average Joe, in relatively decent physical condition, usually walks in the neighborhood of 2 mph.
There are also those who are into more of a casual walk and are more likely to stop, catch their breath and get better acquainted with their surroundings. In a nutshell, just allow ample time to walk your walk and get the most out of the experience.
OK, let’s get this show on the road. From the parking area on Cedar Glades Road, we’ll walk across the pavement and strike out along the trail in a southeastward direction.
Well, this route wastes no time making its first climb. In fact, the trek will begin with the most difficult and long ascent of the entire walk. In fact, the first 0.7 miles will consist of a climb gaining right at 300 feet in elevation.
OK, the most strenuous section of the trek is already behind us, and we find ourselves at a spur trail on the right. Of course, one can continue on, at this point. But those who strike out along the 0.2-mile spur trail leading to Balanced Rock will be rewarded for their efforts.
The huge boulder formation is impressive within itself. But the view from the trail’s end is magnificent, as one can see distant mountains separated by deep valleys lurking to the southwest. From this particular vantage point, it is hard to fathom that one is hardly a mile from the city.
I’ve never had the pleasure of experiencing this view during the early evening hours, but I would suspect that the scene would prove eye-catching just about the time the sun fell behind the horizon.
Of course, one might consider allotting a little extra time for simply kicking back and soaking in the natural beauty at Balanced Rock. But let’s mosey back and continue our walk along the main trail.
The route begins a descent just beyond the spur trail, for about 0.5 miles, where it begins yet another ascent. Although many hikers fail to find pleasure in significant climbs, the benefits often outweigh the discomforts.
I’m referring to views that often awaiting atop these hills and knolls. Of course, there are times when majestic scenes of distant mountains unfold before the hiker. But even on occasions when these ascents lead to the midst of the forest, the perspective is usually interesting.
OK, we’ve taken in the scenery from the higher altitude. Now it’s time to give one’s lungs and weary leg muscles a breather. That’s right, we’re headed down the hill; in fact, we’ll be traversing downhill for the next 0.8 miles.
A portion of the walk had made its way through higher elevations, where small hardwoods seem to thrive. And it’s not uncommon to see grasses thriving in the midst of a rocky substrate.
However, this downhill section eventually veers to the right and enters a totally different environment from what we have seen during a majority of this particular walk.
In fact, it makes its way alongside and beneath the canopy of towering pines and large oaks, and will remain in such an environment until reaching the upcoming trailhead.
But just because the trailhead nears is no indication that all of the climbs are behind us. In fact, we still have one more steep ascent lurking ahead. Fortunately, this climb is rather short, in comparison to the initial climb of the outing. But it is equally as steep, if not more so.
I suppose this is one of those occasions when the old adage, “I have bad news and I have good news” would fit the situation. So let’s first address the bad news. This ascent actually lasts throughout the remainder of the walk.
Now for the good news. The grade of the ascent decreases with each step. And fortunately, it’s hardly 0.2 miles to where we will end the walk at the trailhead.
Well, we have yet another segment of the walk behind us. And we’ve had the opportunity to get even more acquainted with what I would consider as typical Ouachita Mountain terrain.
Granted, there were a few climbs along the way. But the rewards far outweighed the efforts. And I’m already looking forward to sharing the next segment of trail leading around the town that may of those reading this article call home.
To get to the Cedar Glades Road Trailhead from Hot Springs, from Park Avenue turn onto Whittington Avenue and
immediately turn right onto Cedar Street, beside the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts.
Remain on Cedar Street for 0.4 miles and take a right onto Cedar Glades Road. Travel 0.4 miles and the parking area will be on the right just as you top the hill.
To get to the Blacksnake Road Trailhead, turn onto and remain on Whittington Avenue for 1 mile, turn left, travel a few hundred feet and turn back to the right to remain on Whittington/blacksnake Road. Remain on Whittington/blacksnake as it goes in front of the Alligator Farm. Continue along the road for 1.5 miles, and the parking area will be on the left, at the pedestrian crossing lights atop the hill.
PART FOUR
We’re just about at the halfway point of a route that will eventually conclude where the journey first began, at Gulpha Gorge Campground.
Although a few steep climbs have lurked along the way, the first sections of the designated route have proven both scenic and enjoyable. Well, this section is no different. In fact, I suspect this particular stretch of the Sunset Trail is one of the most used, as visitors likely happen upon the trailhead while taking in the scenery from atop West Mountain.
However, we’re not going to start from the West Mountain terminus. Instead, we will embark upon the trek from where we ended the last walk at the
Blacksnake Road trailhead.
I suppose this would prove a good time to give directions to the aforementioned access point where the walk will begin. From Park Avenue, turn left onto Whittington Avenue at the fountain. Remain on Whittington for one mile, to where the road will make a sharp turn to the left, travel a few hundred feet and make a hard right-hand turn between the Alligator Farm and the Weyerhaeuser building.
Remain on Whittington/ Blacksnake Road for approximately 1.5 miles, and the parking area will be on the left just where the steep ascent ends and the pedestrian lights are located.
Those who have already walked the last section of trail will find this trailhead familiar and will be aware of the direction we will travel. But to those who have not been following this series of hikes, we will not
cross the road. Instead, we will strike out along the trail located near the back of the parking area.
I suspect those who have already walked the last section of trail will also be quick to agree that a couple of steep climbs lurked along the way. Well, this route is no different. In fact, these walks are comparable in the sense that the hiker is immediately greeted with the most daunting climb of the outing.
However, I think it would be safe to suggest that today’s initial climb is a tad more difficult. It’s not that the grade is any steeper, but it certainly stretches a greater distance. In fact, the ascent continues to climb for nearly one mile, before it levels out atop Music Mountain, at 1,405 feet, which is the highest point in the entire national park.
But don’t allow the fact that the trail gains just over 440 feet in altitude during the first mile of this 3-mile trek to deter your intentions of experiencing the excursion. Fortunately, the grade eases up hardly halfway into the ascent. In fact, it levels out for a short distance about 0.5 miles into the walk, before heading back up the hill. And the second half of the climb is noticeably milder than was the first.
One might also choose to stop and catch their breath during the ascent at a spot where a distant Hot Springs can be seen from the left hand side of the trail. Heck, one can actually stop for a breather as many times as they prefer during the climb.
The trail switches back and forth three times as it nears the ascent’s end. And before we know it, the climb is in the books. And since we’re standing at the highest elevation throughout the park, the next section of trail obviously has to head downhill.
The trail, to this point, has traversed through a rather rocky environment where the trees’ growth appears to be somewhat stunted by a lack of nutrition. However, we are on the verge of entering a section of the forest where the trees are far taller and the substrate is noticeably smoother.
The designated path runs relatively level for a short distance, but it eventually heads steeply down the hill and makes a sharp left hand turn.
Call me crazy, but I prefer
climbs over descents any day of the week. However, the downhill walk we just experienced was well worth the effort, as the level stretch that follows lends to a couple of incredible views of the outskirts of town. In fact, this is yet another one of those spots where one might consider stopping, resting their legs and soaking in their perspective of the distant city.
The trail makes yet another steep descent shortly thereafter and embarks upon yet another climb. But wait a minute. This ascent is hardly anything comparable to that lurking at the beginning of the walk. In fact, one will find themselves atop the knoll in a jiffy, with yet another climb under their belts.
Of course, this hill is comparable to all other hills in the sense that if it goes up, it’ll eventually head back down. Well, the descent is short-lived. And the following 0.3 miles answer with a mild climb through a beautiful wooded area.
One is likely to notice a spur on the right-hand side of the trail upon reaching the hilltop. This short route leads to a communication tower that can be seen atop the ridge line from the Albert Pike area.
I suppose the most inquisitive will find the spur trail of interest. So we’ll just wait here until your return from your short jaunt.
OK, let’s head back along the main route. We’re two-thirds into the walk, within the neighborhood of a mile to go. And pretty much the remainder of the trek is very easy. There is some mild up and downing along the way, but what lurks ahead is hardly more than a walk in the park in comparison to the terrain we have already traversed.
The trail will make its way alongside yet another trail on the right and will eventually come to a four-way intersection. Well, I’ll go ahead and spill the beans and suggest that you make a mental note of the trail on the left, as we’ll return to this spot at the beginning of the next hike.
But today, we’ll remain straight and enjoy yet another 0.1-mile jaunt to where the walk will come to a close at the parking area of the West Mountain summit.
Now it’s time to give those who have followed this series
of hikes a pat on the back. Congratulations! You have just experienced a trek along the entire Sunset Trail!
But worry not. There’s more to come. In fact, the remaining hikes, leading to our destination, will simply follow other trails meandering within the perimeters of the national park.
Of course, a few ascents lurk in the near future. But one can take comfort in knowing that the most trying are definitely behind us. However, that’s no indication that the upcoming routes are any less magnificent. In fact, I’ll step out on a limb and suggest that those who enjoy a pleasant trek in the midst of Mother Nature will find the upcoming routes equally impressive.
To get to the West Mountain Summit, from Whittington Avenue, take West Mountain Drive. Follow the road to the intersection atop the hill and turn right. Remain on the road to where it makes a loop at the summit.
PART FIVE
We have already completed more than one-half of a series of hikes making a complete circle around Hot Springs prior to tying back into itself where the excursion initially began.
This trek will begin at the vista and will take in sections of four different trails during its descent to where today’s excursion will end at Central Avenue.
The fact that four designated paths are involved might lead one to believe that the walk might prove lengthy and difficult to follow. But not so. This will be the least-strenuous hike that we have experienced thus far. And it is hardly 1.5 miles in length. In fact, the route we will follow will lend to the easiest walk of the entire series.
I suspect most folks who are reading this article know how to reach the West Mountain Summit. However, I suppose we might have a few readers who are not so familiar with Hot Springs. That in mind, I’ll share a general description of how to reach the destination where the hike will begin.
From Bathhouse Row, travel north on Park Avenue and take a left onto Whittington Avenue at the fountain. Remain on Whittington as it eventually circles back to the left, in the direction of Hot Springs, at Parkside Cy
cle. Remain on Whittington for a short distance and take your next right onto West Mountain Drive.
Follow the winding road to where the hill eventually crests and make a right hand turn at the intersection. Remain on the road as it continues a winding ascent. The hike will begin at the parking area where the road tops out and makes a loop.
The trail is easily located as it is situated beside the trailhead sign on the right-hand side of the parking area. OK, we’ve located the designated path. So let’s secure our walking staff and water bottle, don a daypack and strike out along this pleasant and beautiful journey.
We will begin by backtracking along a section of the Sunset Trail. But this section is very short. In fact, we will make a right-hand turn onto the Mountaintop Trail (north) 0.1 miles into the walk.
The path will begin a decent shortly thereafter, beginning a succession of switchbacks as it continues downhill. In fact, the trail will continue switching back and forth for the next 0.3 miles where we will continue
straight on the West Mountain Trail (north).
But slow down there. Some might feel compelled to stop and read the interpretive sign at the intersection, about the sheriff who maintained law and order in Hot Springs many years ago. I’ll not spill the beans, but be sure and read the entire text as it eventually divulges his fate.
OK, let’s begin our journey along this particular segment of today’s walk. I thoroughly enjoyed hiking every section along this entire series. However, this
little stretch of path was, by far, my favorite.
It runs pretty much level for the next 0.6 miles while paralleling the ridgeline on the right, which is also the route of the West Mountain Summit Drive.
I embarked upon this particular section of the walk late one evening, under a light mist, just about during the peak of fall foliage. A stiff wind dispersed the colorful leaves throughout the forest as they turned loose from the canopy above. It was one of
those special moments in time when one finds themselves in the midst of a change of seasons.
However, the flurry of leaves was but one of the reasons that I found this walk rewarding. In fact, I’ll not soon forget the impressive eight-point buck standing broadside in the trail.
My stride slowed to a creep upon noticing the beautiful whitetail. The overcast conditions, heavy mist and swirling winds obviously had an adverse effect on his ability to pinpoint my exact whereabouts. In turn, he remained totally motionless while I eased within 20 yards, before he finally bolted up the steep hillside and disappeared into the forest.
The trail eventually made its way up a slight incline to an intersection at the road’s edge. Although we will continue straight along the canyon trail at this point, one might consider making a short jaunt across the road and taking in the scenery from the vista.
OK, back to the trail. We will follow the beaten path, as it leads us along yet another descent. And as did the Mountaintop Trail, it will make a few switchbacks to ensure the route remains rather easy.
The switchbacks were well-maintained, lending to an easy walk alongside several rock formations. The route eventually straightens out and makes its way to where it crosses West Mountain Drive, makes a short dogleg alongside a guardrail and continues a descent in the direction of downtown.
The route eventually makes its way down the hill to yet another interpretive sign. This, too, is one of those sites where anybody with an inkling of interest in history might consider stopping and reading the interpretive sign that is posted at the route’s edge.
According to the information posted on the sign, this was the backdrop for the former National Park Rifle Range. The range remained in business for an excess of 100 years and was a destination visited by many.
In fact, it is suggested that baseball icon Babe Ruth visited the range. Gangsters, such as Dutch Schultz and Lucky Luciano, also honed their shooting skills at this location.
From the shooting range, the trail heads down the hill and makes its way through a parking area and to Central Avenue, right beside Mountain Valley Water.
At this point, the trail traverses through the city for a short distance. Let’s go ahead and get it behind us, so we can focus on a jaunt over a section of Tower Mountain during our next and final leg of the series.
As it turns out, there is a crosswalk and light at this exact point. So we’ll cross here, turn right and walk alongside the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa for a short distance. In fact, we’ll continue around the historic hotel and make a left-hand turn onto Fountain Street. Remain on Fountain Street and we’ll end today’s walk at the fountains that are located on the left hand side of the road.
The parking area at the fountains is very small, and will hardly accommodate enough vehicles for those who are filling containers with water. However, there is ample parking alongside Arlington Lawn on the opposing side of the road. But be mindful, though, to carry enough change to feed the meters prior to beginning the walk.
PART SIX
Well, this series of hikes is almost in the books. In fact, we are on the sixth and final leg of an excursion that makes a complete circle through the Hot Springs National Park, consisting of in the neighborhood of 14 miles of hills, valleys and beautiful scenery.
The initial trek began at the Gulpha Gorge Campground along the Sunset Trail. We have since completed that entire route, borrowed a few trails meandering along and down West Mountain. And the last walk even consisted of a short jaunt along sidewalks.
Today’s hike will also begin on the sidewalk, as we must walk from a parking meter to the location where the trail heads into the forest. In fact, we’ll also have to trek for a short distance along Fountain Street to access the designated route.
But once we enter the woods, the only pavement one can plan to see during the remainder of the trek is a road crossing atop North Mountain and the parking area where the journey will end.
OK, let’s get rolling. From Park Avenue, we will turn onto Fountain Street, between the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa and Arlington Lawn. Parking meters will be located along the right-hand side of the road.
After finding an unoccupied meter, simply continue walking in the direction of travel. Follow Fountain Street beyond the intersection of the road leading to atop North Mountain. The access to the Floral Trail will be on the left, a few hundred feet beyond the water fountains.
Let’s make a left-hand turn and follow the Floral Trail for a short distance, prior to turning right onto the Lower Dogwood Trail at the first intersection.
The Lower Dogwood Trail will begin an ascent shortly thereafter. However, those who have already walked the first five sections of the series will find this climb far easier than some of those they have already experienced along the way.
The designated path will tie in with the Upper Dogwood Trail at about 0.2 miles, where we will continue to the right. Of course, a majority of the first section of today’s walk consists predominantly of ascents, as we will ultimately have to go over North Mountain to finish our walk back at the Gulpha Gorge Campground. But again, those who have hiked the previous sections will find these ascents far less strenuous.
We’ll remain on the upper Dogwood Trail for maybe 0.2 miles as it continues through what I would consider as typical Ouachita Mountain terrain, prior to reaching yet another intersection at the Hot Springs Mountain Trail, where we will continue straight.
We’ll follow the Hot Springs Mountain Trail for maybe 0.1 miles, to where it crosses a paved road at the ridgeline. One might consider stopping and savoring the moment at this crossing, as it is somewhat of a milestone. This is actually the point where all ascents are behind us.
That’s right; it’s all downhill from here. This is also the point where we will cross the road, bid farewell to the Hot Springs Mountain Trail and veer to the left on the Gulpha Gorge Trail.
However, those who are still spry and have the legs can always turn to the right and remain on the Hot Springs Mountain Trail. This particular route will make a 1.7-mile circle along the ridgeline’s edge prior to returning back to this exact spot.
But enough about the unscheduled trek along the Hot
Spring Mountain Loop. Let’s get back to the planned route and begin our descent to our final destination.
The Gulpha Gorge Trail wastes no time beginning its descent down the rather steep hillside. However, several switchbacks deem the trek far more level and easier than it
might have been if the trail had simply struck out straight down the mountain.
In fact, this section of the trail had recently been resurfaced, deeming the descent even easier than I expected. One will notice yet another intersection in the midst of the switchbacks, where we will remain right and continue down the hill.
The beaten path will make its way to yet another, just about where the switchbacks end. We will continue to the left, at this point, on the Gulpha Gorge Trail.
One is apt to hear distant vehicles on their right. In fact, the hiker will likely also notice the sounds of others enjoying the outdoors, as the path parallels a distant Gupha Gorge Campground for the remainder of the walk.
Hence, this is a very popular route. So don’t be surprised upon happening upon other hikers during the short remainder of the journey. The route will make a slight descent just before reaching a spot where it makes a hard right-hand turn and nears a set of stairs that are built of native stone.
The trail continues slightly downhill for a short distance prior to leading to an intersection leading to the parking area. Simply turn right at the intersection and cross the creek via large flat stones and follow the path for a short distance to the parking area.
Well, I suppose some will find the parking area as a reason for celebration, as the series of hikes we have been focusing on is officially in the books.
I’ll be the first to admit that there have been some trying climbs lurking along the way. But I suspect that those who have tackled the entire walk will also agree that the experience was well worth the effort.
Not only did they likely improve their health, both physically and mentally, but they benefited from the opportunity to get just a little better acquainted with the beautiful mountainous landscape that we call home.
To get to Gulpha Gorge Campground from Hot Springs from Park Avenue (Bathhouse Row) head south and turn left onto Reserve Street, beside the Federal Building. Go 0.3 miles and veer to the left on Spring Street. Travel 0.2 miles and turn left onto East Grand at the light.
Go 0.4 miles and take Exit 2 toward Magic Springs. Drive 0.2 miles and take a left at the four-way stop sign. Go under the bridge and remain straight at the four-way stop sign. Travel 0.4 miles and the entrance will be on the left.