Hiking Arkansas in Midlife – White River Bluff Loop
There is no better time for hiking Arkansas in midlife than right now. As spring is finally underway, hiking is prime time in Arkansas.
White River Bluff Loop – Arkansas Hike
The White River is known for trout fishing and gorgeous views and I want to recommend a hike that is in Stone County near Allison north of Mountain View: the White River Bluff Loop trail.
The White River Bluff Loop trail is easily accessible and has great features for a midlife hiker like me living in north central Arkansas. It is fairly easy to get to from Highway 5 onto Green Mountain Road.
Green Mountain Road is in close proximity to Jo Jo’s Catfish Wharf, which is a great place to fuel up before or after a hike! I also highly recommend the fish tacos with mango salsa at Angler’s Resort at the junction of Highway 5 and Highway 9.
Drive up the mountain about 1.2 miles until you reach the trailhead and parking lot on the left. There are two trailheads from this parking lot, and the White River Bluff Loop is the one with green trail markers.
Hike Details – Arkansas Midlife Hike
White River Loop Trail is moderate hike at 4.1 miles and is considered a loop trail, which means it makes a loop back around to end where it begins.
There are several spots where the views of the White River are breathtaking. In order to catch these vistas, it is best to hike before much of the foliage comes back onto the trees this spring.
This hike can easily be shortened without losing the view if you aren’t ready for a 4 mile hike. Take the loop going clockwise to reach the vistas quicker, then double back after you hit all those viewpoints and make it an out and back trail. You can find this trail on AllTrails.
This trail is considered a moderate trail and is well maintained and marked. It does allow for mountain biking and many have reported seeing bald eagles along this trail, so pay attention to others on the trail as well as wildlife. There is a variety of terrain on this hike, from rocky areas, grassland, and pine forest if you take the entire trail.
What to Pack for the Hike
One thing this midlife hiker learned on her early adventures, is to pack plenty of snacks and water and take a break along the trail at one of the vista points to enjoy the views. Don’t forget a packable tripod to set up for a selfie against the White River below!
There is a fee box at the trailhead parking area to deposit $3 for trail use as this is area is maintained by the U.S. Forestry Service.
