National Park · Southeast · AR
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park has a rich cultural past. The grand architecture of our historic bathhouses is equally matched by the natural curiosities that have been drawing people here for hundreds of years. Ancient thermal springs, mountain views, incredible geology, forested hikes, and abundant creeks – all in the middle of town – make Hot Springs National Park a unique and beautiful destination.
Current alerts
InformationBurn Ban in Park
Due to high fire danger, Hot Springs National Park has enacted a BURN BAN, August 15, 2026. Only gas and charcoal grills are currently allowed for use in the campground and picnic areas.
Location
34.5241, -93.0633
Key trails & viewpoints
Goat Rock Trail
The Goat Rock trail offers stunning views of the Ouachita Mountains and the recharge zone for the thermal springs. Limited parking is available at the overlook on North Mountain. The trailhead starts south of the parking area.
Oak Trail
The northeastern end of Oak Trail is mostly flat. The trail is fairly steep for a short distance between West Mountain Trail and West Mountain Drive.
An Overview: Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails
<p>All of the trails on Hot Springs and North Mountain are interconnected. Depending on the trail, if done singularly, it could be done in as little as 30 minutes (the Grand Promenade) or they could be combined for a 4 to 5 hour adventure. </p>
The Hot Springs and North Mountain trails are popular since they are easy to reach and provide scenic views. You can get to these trails via Stephen’s Balustrade (grand staircase) behind the Fordyce Bathhouse, Hot Springs Mountain Drive, and the Gulpha Gorge Campground. See the Hot Springs and North Mountain trail map for more information.
Honeysuckle Trail
Honeysuckle Trail connects Peak Trail with Hot Springs Mountain Trail.
Short Cut Trail
Short Cut Trail connects Oertel Trail with Hot Springs Mountain Trail near the picnic area atop Hot Springs Mountain.
West Mountain Trail
Both sections of West Mountain Trail have gradual change in elevation. Note: West Mountain Trail can be made into a loop by using Mountain Top Trail (elevation change: 400 feet in this section).
Whittington Trail
The flat, gravel trail is popular with joggers and walkers. Whittington Trail loops around Whittington Park.
Mountain Top Trail
Mountaintop trail can be linked with Canyon Trail and West Mountain trail to complete a loop around West Mountain. If hiking southward, the trail is strenuous, as it gains elevation quickly. If hiking northward, there is a steady rise in elevation until you cross Sunset Trail; the trail descends steeply to the trailhead at Whittington Park.
Hours & fees
Public Areas and Park Roads
Arlington Lawn, Grand Promenade, sidewalks on Bathhouse Row, Reserve Street, and Fountain Street, except for walk through traffic, are open from to 5:00 am to 10:00 pm, daily. Roads to Hot Springs Mountain, North Mountain and West Mountain Summit are open to vehicle traffic from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.
| Monday | 5:00AM - 10:00PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 5:00AM - 10:00PM |
| Wednesday | 5:00AM - 10:00PM |
| Thursday | 5:00AM - 10:00PM |
| Friday | 5:00AM - 10:00PM |
| Saturday | 5:00AM - 10:00PM |
| Sunday | 5:00AM - 10:00PM |
No entrance fee is charged at this park.
Activities
- Auto and ATV
- Scenic Driving
- Biking
- Camping
- Car or Front Country Camping
- RV Camping
- Fishing
- Food
- Dining
- Picnicking
- Guided Tours
- Hiking
- Junior Ranger Program
- Wildlife Watching
- Birdwatching
- Park Film
- Museum Exhibits
- Shopping
- Bookstore and Park Store
- Gift Shop and Souvenirs