Mount Magazine State Park, Arkansas: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Mount Magazine State Park sits at the highest point in Arkansas. It's a hidden gem for those who love adventure. But what makes it special? Is it the stunning views over the Petit Jean River Valley, or the exciting activities like rock climbing and hang gliding?

Find out as you dive into the park's top activities. See why it's a must-visit for outdoor lovers.

Key Takeaways

• Mount Magazine State Park is located at an elevation of 2,753 feet, the highest point in Arkansas.
• The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, hang gliding, and wildlife watching.
• Visitors can enjoy stunning scenic vistas and overlooks, such as the Cameron Bluff Overlook.
• Accommodations include a modern lodge, cozy cabins, and RV sites, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.
• The park is home to the official state butterfly, the Diana fritillary, and is a popular spot for birdwatching during migration seasons.

Scenic Vistas and Overlooks at Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park shows off the Ozark Plateau's stunning beauty. The park's Cameron Bluff Overlook Drive is a must-see. It's a one-way loop with seven stops that highlight the area's beauty.

The drive offers wide views of the Petit Jean River Valley and towns like Paris, Ozark, Subiaco, and Clarksville. These are all framed by the park's high cliffs. At the Cameron Bluff Overlook, you get a view from a stone platform.

Cameron Bluff Overlook Drive

The drive also takes you to an amphitheater with an observation area and steps down to seating. Other stops show off the rolling hills and forests. You'll see amazing views of Blue Mountain Lake. The scenic overlooks at Mount Magazine State Park are unforgettable.

"The scenic overlooks at Mount Magazine State Park are a true feast for the senses, offering breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty of this remarkable destination."

Hiking Trails at Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park has many hiking trails for all levels of adventurers. You can enjoy a calm walk or a tough hike. The park's trails show off its stunning views and natural beauty.

Bear Hollow Trail

The Bear Hollow Trail is a favorite, covering 2.8 miles and taking about 3 hours. You'll see amazing views at Inspiration Point, Bear Head Bluff, and Shoal Creek.

Benefield Loop Trails

The Benefield Loop Trails are easy, 2 miles long, and go through the Benefield Picnic Area. They're a great way to learn about the park's history and see its beauty.

Cove Lake Trail

For a tougher hike, try the Cove Lake Trail. It drops over 1,500 feet to beautiful Cove Lake. It's part of a 9.7-mile trail, perfect for experienced hikers.

Other Notable Trails

• Mossback Ridge Trail: This 2.1-mile trail takes about 2 hours to complete. It offers unique views of the park's natural beauty.
• North Rim Trail: A bit harder, this 2.2-mile hike takes around 3 hours. It has stunning views of the area.

Mount Magazine State Park has trails for easy walks or tough hikes. From the Bear Hollow Trail to the Cove Lake Trail, each trail lets you enjoy the park's beauty and history.

"Mount Magazine State Park's hiking trails offer a diverse range of experiences, from the scenic Bear Hollow Trail to the challenging Cove Lake Trail. Each route showcases the park's natural beauty and provides a unique opportunity to connect with the great outdoors."

Mount Magazine State Park, Arkansas: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Mount Magazine State Park in Arkansas is more than just stunning views and trails. It's a place full of outdoor fun and learning for nature lovers. You can enjoy rock climbing, hang gliding, watching wildlife, and more. It's a perfect spot for those who love the outdoors.

Rock climbers will find over 100 routes on the bluffs, suitable for all skill levels. For those who love thrills, hang gliding from the Cameron Bluff Overlook Drive loop is a great choice. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot many birds, including the rare rufous-crowned sparrows and the Diana fritillary, Arkansas's official butterfly. In the fall, the park is famous for the monarch butterfly migration.

The visitor center and programs are great for learning about the park's history, geology, and ecology. Mount Magazine State Park is perfect for those who love nature and outdoor activities. With its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and many activities, it's a top spot for outdoor adventures.

"Mount Magazine State Park is a true gem, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities and opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you're a rock climber, birdwatcher, or just someone seeking a scenic escape, this park has something for everyone."

Rock Climbing at Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park sits at the highest point in Arkansas. It's a thrilling spot for rock climbers. With over 100 routes, climbers of all levels can find a challenge.

The park's unique terrain, at 2,753 feet high, is perfect for climbing. It has routes for beginners and experts alike. The park's staff helps ensure your safety and fun as you climb.

New climbers can get advice from the park's knowledgeable staff. They can help pick the right route for you. Experienced climbers will find many challenging routes with great views. Climbing here is an unmatched experience, making it a top spot for rock climbing, bluffs, and outdoor adventures in Arkansas.

"The rock climbing at Mount Magazine is truly awe-inspiring. The views from the top of the bluffs are simply breathtaking." - John Doe, Avid Climber

Hang Gliding at Mount Magazine State Park

Feel the rush of flying high above the Petit Jean Valley at Mount Magazine State Park. It's the top spot for hang gliding in Arkansas. The park's south-facing slopes and perfect conditions make it ideal for soaring through the sky.

Launch Site and Landing Zone

Hang gliders need a Class 4 rating and must sign up daily at the park. They launch from the south side of the Cameron Bluff Overlook Drive loop. Class 3 gliders can fly with a Class 4 pilot, making it easier for beginners to join the fun.

The landing zone is about 7 miles west on Highway 10. It's where hang gliders touch down and where people gather to watch the flights. They can see the hang gliding community's adventurous spirit.

"The thrill of hang gliding over the Petit Jean Valley is an unparalleled experience. It's a chance to soar like a bird and witness the park's stunning natural beauty from a truly unique perspective."

Wildlife Watching at Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park is a paradise for those who love wildlife. It's full of birds and butterflies for you to see. The park has 11 different plant communities that attract many birds. You can see the world's easternmost rufous-crowned sparrows on the south-facing bluffs.

Spring and fall are the best times to see up to 3,000 raptors flying by. The park is also home to the Diana fritillary, Arkansas's official butterfly. You can see these beauties in the summer.

In the fall, the park is a key spot for monarch butterfly migration. Monarchs stop here to eat on the wildflowers before moving on.

Birdwatching and Butterfly Migration

Birdwatchers and butterfly lovers come to Mount Magazine State Park to see amazing wildlife. The park's varied landscapes support a wide range of birds and butterflies. You might see the rare rufous-crowned sparrows or the beautiful Diana fritillary flying around.

Mount Magazine State Park is a top spot for wildlife watching in Arkansas. It's perfect for anyone who loves nature.

"Mount Magazine State Park is a true gem for birdwatching and butterfly migration enthusiasts. The park's incredible biodiversity and breathtaking scenery make it a one-of-a-kind destination for nature lovers."

Accommodations at Mount Magazine State Park

At Mount Magazine State Park in Arkansas, you'll find many places to stay. The main spot is the Lodge at Mount Magazine. It has 60 rooms with amazing views of the Petit Jean River Valley and Blue Mountain Lake.

Each lodge room comes with a kitchen, fireplace, hot tub, and deck. For a quieter stay, there are 13 cabins. They have one to three bedrooms, hot tubs, and views of the bluffs.

For those who love the outdoors, there are 18 campsites. Two are class AAA and 16 are class AA. They're great for RVs and tents. You'll be close to hiking trails and fun activities.

Looking for a fancy getaway, a cozy cabin, or a rustic camp? Mount Magazine State Park has it all. Your visit to this beautiful Arkansas spot will be unforgettable.

Visitor Center and Park Programs

The Mount Magazine State Park Visitor Center is a key spot for visitors. It offers lots of information and services. You can see a detailed model of the park's layout to help plan your visit. There are educational exhibits on the park's plants, animals, geology, and history. You can also get trail maps and brochures here.

The staff at the center knows a lot about the trails and roads. They can tell you about the park's rules and what it offers.

Mount Magazine State Park also has many programs and events all year. These include guided hikes, wildlife tours, educational workshops, and outdoor clinics. There's something fun for everyone.

"The visitor center is a treasure trove of information, helping us make the most of our time at Mount Magazine State Park. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, making our visit a truly memorable experience."

Planning a day hike, a weekend trip, or a longer stay? Don't forget to stop by the Mount Magazine State Park Visitor Center. It's a great way to make your visit unforgettable.

Biking Opportunities at Mount Magazine State Park

For cycling fans, Mount Magazine State Park in Arkansas is a must-visit. The park's main bike route is the tough climb from Havana to the summit. It's a 2,200-foot rise over 7.5 miles. The last 4.5 miles are especially tough, with steep grades over 8%.

But the hard work pays off with a fast, exciting downhill ride. Cyclists can hit speeds up to 40 miles per hour. The park also has trails for mountain bikers, offering varied terrain and beautiful views.

Challenging Climbs and Thrilling Descents

Mount Magazine State Park is perfect for road cyclists and mountain bikers alike. The main route, from Havana to the summit, is a big challenge. It has a 2,200-foot climb over 7.5 miles, with steep sections at the end.

After reaching the top, you get to speed down, reaching up to 40 miles per hour. The park also has trails for mountain bikers. They offer different landscapes and views for a memorable ride.

The Lodge at Mount Magazine has bike rentals for visitors. Everyone is encouraged to wear a helmet for safety. Whether you want a tough climb or a fast descent, Mount Magazine State Park is a top spot for cyclists in Arkansas.

Exploring the Huckleberry Mountain Trail System

The Huckleberry Mountain Trail is a key part of Mount Magazine State Park. It stretches 37.3 miles and welcomes hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, and ATV fans. The trail starts at the Mount Magazine Horse Camp and drops 200 feet to the highway. Along the way, you'll see steep bluffs, winding valleys, and stunning views.

The trail has three main loops, with the longest being the Huckleberry Mountain Trail at 18.8 miles. There's also a 6.6-mile Bell Springs Loop and a 12.2-mile Apple Loop that goes through forests and old logging roads. For those who love to camp, there are backcountry sites at Sorghum Hollow, Old Walnut Tree, Huckleberry, and Quarry Camp.

Whether you love hiking, biking, or horseback riding, the Huckleberry Mountain Trail has something for everyone. Its varied terrain and loop options make it perfect for all outdoor lovers. It's a top spot for exploring Arkansas's natural beauty.