Hobbs State Park Barrier Free Trails: Sinking Stream Trail

Hobbs State Park and Conservation Area located in Rogers, Arkansas, has several barrier free trails available. Sinking Stream Trail is a unique trail due to the fact that it is not listed in any of the park's brochures or on the trail maps. Neither the Hobbs State Park website nor the Friends of Hobbs website mention this half-mile trail.

Sinking Stream Trail Overview

The trailhead to the Sinking Stream Trail is located at the handicap picnic bench in the parking area to the Historic Van Winkle Trail. The picnic area is to the left of the bathrooms, as you stand in front of them.

Sinking Stream Trail is named for the Little Clifty Creek that runs intermittently in dry weather. Many streams in Hobbs State Park and Conservation Area sink underground and reappear in other areas. This trail is a half-mile loop. It is unmarked but easy to follow.

The trail is wide enough for wheelchairs and strollers. Crushed gravel and packed earth comprise most of the trail. Three wooden footbridges make creek crossings safe and dry. Some assistance may be required for non-motorized wheelchairs. Always take a buddy with you when hiking.

Sinking Stream Trail Details

The trail starts at the picnic table and descends down a gravel hill toward the Little Clifty Creek. At the base of the descent, you can take the trail either to the left or to the right. As the trail is a loop, it does not matter which way you start. This description takes you along the trail heading to the left.

As you enter the trail, two metal posts indicate that bicycles, motorized vehicles (motorized wheelchairs are permitted) and horses are not permitted on the trail. Hunting and fishing are not allowed.

The trail meanders through the forest understory. Look for a tree with a large hole through the base on the left side of the trail. In several places branches bend over the trail to give the feeling of an archway. As you travel along the path away from the parking area and road, the trail becomes peaceful and quiet. At this point the trail heads away from Little Clifty Creek.

Following the trail, you head back towards the creek as the trail takes a sharp bend to the right. This is about the halfway point of the trail. You cross the first of three footbridges shortly after the bend. After crossing the footbridge, the trail descends up along a ridge and it gives you a pleasant view of the creek below. Continue along the trail across another footbridge. The trail continues to ascend, but it is not steep. Shortly after the second bridge, the trail levels out and continues along the ridgeline. You will see the parking area and the Historic Van Winkle Trail from this vantage point. A third and final footbridge which crosses the Little Clifty Creek gives you a view of the creek, complete with water bugs and crayfish. From the bridge it is a short distance up the hill and back to the picnic area and parking lot. If time permits, you may want to visit the Van Winkle Historical Trail which is adjacent to the parking area.

Hobbs State Park and Conservation Area has 3 trails that are barrier free for handicapped individuals. The park requests that all individuals using the trail sign in at the bulletin board area before heading out on the trail. Next time you are visiting the Northwest Arkansas Area, take time to visit the Sinking Stream Trail and the visitor's center.

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