Arkansas' Multi-Use Trails Await the Horseman, Bicycle Rider, Hiker, ATV Owner

Arkansas multi-use trails are open to bikers, hikers, horses, and ATV vehicles. There, of course, are certain rules of courtesy for the use of these trails. Hikers should yield to bikers and horses, and bikers should yield the trail to horses. ATV vehicles should yield the trail to all other users.

There are many trails in the state. These are part of the system of Forest Service , Army Corp of Engineers and Arkansas State Park trails.

One popular multi-use trail is located in Mt. Nebo State Park, located near Dardanelle, AR. This is listed as an easy 4 mile trail, making its way to the summit of the mountain. There are tight hairpin turns, making the climb adventuresome. At the Bench Overlook there is a bench where you can stop to view the valley below. A round slab of sandstone, penetrates the mountain and provides a natural bench. At the top of the mountain, there is a hotel, homes and a store. For more information on this trail, contact mountnebo@arkansas.com.

Devil's Den State Park is one of the most popular trails in Arkansas. Hikers, mountain bikers, and horsemen enjoy this series of trails. It is located 8 miles South of Fayetteville, off of Interstate 540. These trails lead to an historical natural bridge, scenic overlooks, and water falls. There is a horse camp located at the beginning of the trail. Each trail is marked with a diamond, shaped plate with a horseshoe in the center. Water is available for humans and horses. There is a restaurant and swimming pool located at one of the maps. The park has complete campgrounds for horses with camper and trailer hook ups available, also. For more detailed information on this trail, contact devilsden@arkansas.com. Mountain bikes are allowed on this trail, but must yield to horses.

USDA Forest Service Trails are located in the Ouachita National Forest. Earthquake Ridge Trail is one of these
popular treks. It is located near the town of Mena, and parallels the Talimena Scenic Byway. Accommodations for this popular scenic trail are available at Queen Wilhelmina State Park. Additional information about the park and trails can be obtained by contacting the Mena Ranger District, 1603 U.S. 71 North, Mena, AR 71953.

The Fourche Mountain Trail is located near Waldron, Arkansas. It offers views of Fourche Mountain, an abandoned silver mine, the Ouachita Mountains, and uncommonly found plant life. This trail information can be obtained from the District Ranger, Poteau Ranger District, P.O. Box 2255, Waldon, AR 72958.

Possum Kingdom Bike Trail is located near Jessieville. Overnight accommodations can be found in the nearby town of Hot Springs. Even though, it is called a bike trail, it is available for multi-use. This trail is in the Ouachita National Forest, and is considered one of the more difficult trails in the system. You can secure information about this trail by contacting the Jessieville Ranger District, P.O. Box 189, Jessieville, AR 71949.

The Syllamo Mountain Bike Trail is over fifty miles long and is recognized by the International Mountain Biking Association in 2005 lists of epic rides. It is located near Mountain View, Arkansas. Rolling hills, loops, and straight aways make it a match for all skills. Switchback sections are available for more advanced riders.
For more information on this trail contact Sylamore Ranger District, 101 East Main, Mountain View, AR 72560 or the Blanchard Springs Visitor Information Center. at 888-757-2246.

All of these trails, plus many others, can be researched in the Arkansas Adventure Guide, available through the Department of Parks and Tourism at 1 Capitol Mall, Little Rock, AR 72201 or email info@Arkansas.com. Maps are available for all trails, including the facilities available on each trail for humans and animals. The information provided in this article was provided by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism.