Pinnacle Mountain State Park: Kingfisher Trail

Pinnacle Mountain, located just outside of Little Rock, Arkansas, offers hikers a variety of trails. Most people are familiar with the West Summit and East Summit Trails. However, these trails are not barrier free and they are inaccessible to those with limited mobility. The Kingfisher Trail, located across the parking lot from the West Summit Trail-head is a barrier free trail that offers visitors a chance to explore a wetland ecosystem.

Trail details

Kingfisher Trail is an easy trail to hike. It is wheelchair and stroller friendly. The trail-head is located on the opposite side of the parking lot, across from the West Summit Trail. The close proximity to the playground and restrooms makes this an ideal stroll for parents with small children. Pushing a stroller along the trail is a breeze. The quiet, shady trail may be just the thing to help settle down an unhappy infant.

Kingfisher Trail is '½ mile long loop. The trail is paved and fairly level, with no elevation changes. Information signs are posted along the trail, providing visitors with information about the cypress trees, ecosystem and wetlands. Benches and trash cans are located along the trail. The trail is not well marked. There are two entrances to the trail from the parking lot. As you travel along the trail, bear to the left and do not take the trail that leads under the road. This will take you out of Pinnacle Mountain State Park.

Points of interest

The trail is a great place to watch birds and other wildlife. Kingfishers frequent the stream that borders the trail. The tall trees provide welcome shade during the summer months. Of particular interest are the cypress trees that grow along the edge of the stream. The size of the trees is impressive. There are plenty of benches where you can sit and take in the scenery. Kids will enjoy listening for frogs. Fishing is permitted with a valid Arkansas fishing license.

Pinnacle Mountain amenities

There are plenty of facilities nearby. If you want to picnic, you can bring a cooler with sandwiches or use one of the grills for a cookout. Covered picnic tables, restrooms, a playground and a large, open field border the trail. The playground is large enough to accommodate school groups. Parking is free. There is no charge to use the playground or tables.

Take a right turn out of the parking lot and head up to the visitors center. Here you can purchase souvenirs or spend time in the education area learning about the park. A large deck at the rear of the visitors center provides you with views of the Maumelle River. The center is barrier free and there are vending machines and restrooms located in the building.

More from Associated Content:

West Summit Trail at Pinnacle Mountain State Park

Hobbs State Park Barrier Free Trails: Sinking Stream Trail

Hobbs State Park Barrier Free Trails: Historic Van Winkle Trail