Just west of Little Rock, the capital of Arkansas, Pinnacle Mountain stands as the centerpiece of this geographically diverse state park. This day-use park at the Arkansas Arboretum offers a variety of outdoor adventures on the Big and Little Wax Rivers, and includes more than 22 miles of trails, as well as more than 14 miles of challenging mountain bike trails. Hike to the top, explore the rivers or participate in one of the many interpretive programs offered by park staff. Visit the park visitor center, enjoy a picnic, or reserve a pavilion for a large gathering. The Loblolly Outpost will be located at the Pinnacle Mountain State Park Visitor Center. Be sure to stop by!

 Pinnacle Mountain State Park is also certified as a Trails of Tears National Historic Site. Mountain witnessed the hardships of the Choctaws, Creeks, Seminoles, and Chickasaws, as well as the Cherokee removal parties. Learn more about the Trail of Tears in Arkansas State Parks.

Before you start, stop by the nature center and fill out a registration form. Put the white copy in the closed box and keep the pink copy in the box for safekeeping when you return. When you reach the Pinnacle Mountain Trail sign, you’ll turn left and begin an adventurous, scenic hike on this well-trodden trail. Follow the yellow blazes (the green blazes eventually turn right where the Carrick Creek Trail branches off) and you’ll cross several small footbridges through hardwoods and rhododendrons between steep hillsides. are You’ll encounter a small waterfall on the right and pass under a large rock ledge, before you reach the junction with the 0.4-mile spur trail that leads to Mill Creek Falls. The spur ends at a wooden bridge where you can see the falls.

Return to the junction and continue to Bald Knob Overlook. After a steep climb, the trail levels out and joins the Mill Creek Trail for a short distance before continuing to hike up the steep slope to Bald Knob. Your reward is the view as you look out over the distant mountains to see Greenville and beyond. To continue to Pinnacle Mountain, walk uphill to the top of the outcrop and turn right into the woods. The Foothills Trail will branch off to the left and you’ll quickly climb to the top of the tree-lined Pinnacle Mountain. You can go back the way you came, or follow the less strenuous, forested ridge trail, to the Table Rock Trail and back to the nature center.

Keep an eye out for black bears, turtles, snakes (especially on the rocks), a variety of birds and other wildlife. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and active clothing, carry adequate water and first aid supplies, and use insect repellent in hot weather. Pets are allowed on a leash. Toilets and water are available in the wooden building above the nature center parking area.