The Top Five Outdoor Activities in Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock, Arkansas offers an exciting blend of urban sophistication and breathtaking natural beauty. If you’re a traveler seeking outdoor adventures, you’ve chosen the right destination. Little Rock boasts a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. 

Arkansas’ capital city is a gateway to an array of outdoor activities, from scenic hikes along the Arkansas River Trail to encounters with exotic wildlife at the Little Rock Zoo. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking to soak in the serenity of the great outdoors, Little Rock has something for you. Join us on a journey through the top five outdoor activities that make this city a hidden gem for travelers seeking adventure. 

Arkansas River Trail

The Arkansas River Trail is a quintessential outdoor experience in Little Rock. This expansive trail system winds along the banks of the Arkansas River, offering hikers, bikers, runners, and casual strollers a blend of nature, history, and fun. 

Arkansas River Trail Highlights 

Big Dam Bridge

An iconic feature of the trail, the Big Dam Bridge provides a breathtaking vantage point to soak in the river’s beauty. 

Murray Park 

Pause for a picnic or let the kids run free at Murray Park, a popular spot along the trail 

Little Rock Port 

Marvel at the bustling activity of the port and witness the convergence of river and commerce.

The Arkansas River Trail invites you to discover the natural splendor of Little Rock while staying active and connected to the city’s rich heritage. Whether you’re on two wheels or two feet, this trail promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Arkansas. So, gear up and get ready to immerse yourself in the riverside oasis that is the Arkansas River Trail. 

Little Rock Zoo

For families and animal lovers, the Little Rock Zoo is an outdoor destination that promises an unforgettable adventure. Situated in the heart of the city, this zoological wonderland offers a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife from around the globe. 

Explore a wide array of exhibits, each showcasing different ecosystems and their inhabitants, from the savannah to the rainforest. Here, you can get up close and personal with your favorite animals during encounters and feeding sessions. You can also learn about the zoo’s commitment to wildlife conservation and how they are actively contributing to protecting endangered species. 

Visiting the Little Rock Zoo is more than just a day out; it’s an opportunity to learn, connect, and appreciate the incredible biodiversity of our planet. With its focus on education, conservation, and pure entertainment, this outdoor attraction is a must-visit for travelers of all ages. 

Arkansas River 

The Arkansas River, affectionately known as “The Mighty Ark,” is not just a geographical feature; it’s a centerpiece of life and leisure in Little Rock. The river, which flows through the heart of the city, offers a diverse range of outdoor activities and opportunities for relaxation. 

Paddle your way along the calm waters of the river, taking in stunning views of the city skyline and natural surroundings. There are a number of rental and guided tour services available throughout Little Rock to help you get out on the water. We recommend checking out Rock Town River Outfitters for kayak and stand up paddleboard rentals or even guided sunset tours of the river. 

Pinnacle Mountain State Park 

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of Arkansas’ best state park at Pinnacle Mountain. Located just a short drive from Little Rock, this outdoor gem offers a striking natural environment with rugged terrain, picturesque trails, and panoramic vistas. 

Popular Hiking Trails at Pinnacle Mountain State Park 

Pinnacle Mountain rises more than 1000 feet above Central Arkansas. From the summit, you’re able to see all of nearby Little Rock as well as sweeping views of the Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding hills and mountains. 

Pinnacle Mountain East Summit

Conquer the summit for awe-inspiring views of the Arkansas River Valley. This trail starts out smooth and flat at first, but quickly becomes a challenging scramble through boulder fields to reach the summit. 

View the trail. 

Pinnacle Mountain West Summit 

If you’re eager to get to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain but you’re not excited about navigating craggy boulder fields, consider taking the Pinnacle Mountain West Summit Trail. This short and steep trail is still challenging, but it’s an easier alternative to the eastern approach. 

 View the trail 

Petit Jean State Park 

About an hour outside of Little Rock in the Ozark Mountains is Petit Jean State Park. As the first Arkansas state park, Petit Jean has been drawing tourists and nature enthusiasts for decades. Petit Jean State Park has a lot to offer whether you’re a history buff interested in learning about the Trail of Tears or the CCC, an avid hiker eager to explore the trails and waterfalls of the area, or someone looking for some peace and quiet. 

Petit Jean State Park Hiking Trails 

Cedar Falls Trail

Perhaps the most famous feature of Petit Jean is Cedar Falls, one of Arkansas’ tallest waterfalls. This moderate two mile hike will take you down into Petit Jean’s main canyon where you’ll follow the river to the base of the falls. 

View the Trail 

Seven Hollows Trail 

Explore the unique geological features, caves, and rock formations across seven distinct wooded hollows in Petit Jean State Park. This trail will give you a deeper appreciation of the area’s beauty as well as an opportunity to explore what remains of prehistoric Native American bluff-dwellings. 

View the trail  

Rock House Cave & Lookout Trail 

Meandering across the northwestern plateau of Petit Jean State Park, this trail leads you through a beautiful landscape to a fascinating archeological site where you can see Native American art that is more than 500 years old. 

View the trail  

Start at Urban Cottages of Little Rock 

From the scenic Arkansas River Trail to the wild encounters at the Little Rock Zoo, the waterways of the Arkansas River to the rugged beauty of Pinnacle Mountain State Park and the hidden charm of Petit Jean State Park, there's something here for everyone.

But your journey doesn't have to end when the sun sets. To complete your Little Rock experience, we invite you to stay at Urban Cottages of Little Rock. Our cozy, well-appointed cottages offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, allowing you to relax and recharge after your outdoor adventures.

Located in the heart of the city, Urban Cottages provides easy access to all the attractions we've explored in this article, ensuring that your trip to Little Rock is as comfortable as it is memorable. Book your stay with us today and make the most of your visit to this charming city!