Goat Rock Trail and Overlook
A moderate 1.1-mile trail leading to a scenic overlook with panoramic Ouachita Mountain views and interesting rock formations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, better photos
Goat Rock Trail and Overlook
Best Time
Fewer people, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A moderate 1.1-mile trail leading to a scenic overlook with panoramic Ouachita Mountain views and interesting rock formations.
"Short hike with a small amount of parking nearby, great views from the rock overlook!"
Bring Water! 💧
Even on cooler days, the uphill return can be strenuous. Stay hydrated!
Watch for Wildlife 🐍
Be mindful of snakes, especially under rocks. Keep a safe distance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Goat Rock Overlook
Summit of the trail
Panoramic Ouachita Mountain views await at this stunning vista point. Perfect for photos!
Unique Rock Formations
Along the trail
Discover mossy boulders and rocks in a spectrum of colors, from creamy white to deep gray.
Diverse Native Flora
Forest sections
Spot native Arkansas trees like Ash, Gum, Persimmons, and various Oak species.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Difficulty & Terrain
Best Time to Visit & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Water! 💧
Even on cooler days, the uphill return can be strenuous. Stay hydrated!
Watch for Wildlife 🐍
Be mindful of snakes, especially under rocks. Keep a safe distance.
Leash Your Dog 🐕
Dogs are allowed, but keep them on a leash due to narrow trail sections.
Wear Sturdy Shoes 👟
The trail has inclines and declines; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Water! 💧
Even on cooler days, the uphill return can be strenuous. Stay hydrated!
Watch for Wildlife 🐍
Be mindful of snakes, especially under rocks. Keep a safe distance.
Leash Your Dog 🐕
Dogs are allowed, but keep them on a leash due to narrow trail sections.
Wear Sturdy Shoes 👟
The trail has inclines and declines; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Explore Beyond Goat Rock 🗺️
The trail connects to others, offering opportunities for longer hikes if you're up for it.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Goat Rock Trail is praised for its stunning Ouachita Mountain views and unique rock formations, offering a rewarding short hike. While the uphill return can be challenging, most visitors find it a worthwhile cardio experience. Some caution is advised regarding potential wildlife encounters.
"It’s an easy to moderate trail, 1 mile downhill to the scenic Goat Rock, then you can continue on to other trails or turn around and 1 mile uphill back to parking. We took our dog, and besides the narrow trail when passing fellow dog walkers or families, it was a great experience."
William McDowell
"Short hike with a small amount of parking nearby, great views from the rock overlook!"
ʎɟɟnp duffy
"Oct 15th- This was a pretty easy hike, well marked, it is all up hill, but a quick little up and back, you can keep going and do the loop if you choose but we didn’t, we came back down. We did see a cotton mouth under one of the rocks you walk across, which I couldn’t believe cause it was pretty chilly. But I guess they were trying to get some sun. So heads up. Nice little look out point at the top."
Brynna Dowling
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goat Rock Trail is located in Arkansas. Access is typically via a small parking area off a local road. It's recommended to use GPS or a mapping app to find the trailhead.
Yes, there is a small parking area at the trailhead. It can fill up quickly, especially on weekends or during peak seasons.
Public transportation options are generally limited for remote trailheads like Goat Rock. Driving is the most common and practical way to access the trail.
Goat Rock Trail is situated within the Ouachita Mountains region of Arkansas. Nearby towns may include smaller communities, so it's best to check a map for specific locations.
Typically, state park or national forest trails like Goat Rock Trail do not have entrance fees. However, it's always a good idea to check local park regulations before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Goat Rock Trail is generally a free-access trail. There are no tickets required for entry.
Outdoor trails like Goat Rock are typically accessible from dawn to dusk. There are no set operating hours, but it's best to hike during daylight.
Advance booking is not necessary for Goat Rock Trail as it's a public access trail. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
For a standard day hike on Goat Rock Trail, no special permits are usually required. If you plan on camping or engaging in other activities, check local regulations.
Yes, Goat Rock Trail can be visited year-round. However, be mindful of weather conditions, especially in winter and during hot summer months.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Goat Rock and back is about 2 miles and typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the overlook.
The trail is considered easy to moderate. The initial descent is downhill, but the return trip is a steady uphill climb, offering a good workout.
Restroom facilities are not typically available directly at the Goat Rock Trailhead. It's advisable to use facilities in nearby towns before your hike.
Yes, the trail is generally suitable for children, but parents should supervise them closely due to the uphill return and potential for narrow sections.
You'll be rewarded with scenic views of the Ouachita Mountains. It's a great spot for photography and enjoying nature.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for stunning landscape shots of the Ouachita Mountains. Early mornings can also provide soft, diffused light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The main overlook at Goat Rock is the prime spot. Also, look for interesting rock formations and unique flora along the trail for close-up shots.
Drone usage regulations vary by location. It's essential to check with the local park or forest service for any restrictions before flying a drone.
The overlook offers open exposure, so you'll experience direct sunlight during midday. Overcast days can provide softer, more even lighting for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail. Consider making it a morning or late afternoon outing to avoid the heat. The rewarding views from Goat Rock make the effort worthwhile for the whole family.
🐶 Dog Owners
Be mindful that the uphill return can be strenuous for dogs too, so ensure they are adequately hydrated and not overexerted. The natural environment might also present interesting scents for your dog, but always supervise them to prevent them from disturbing wildlife or getting into unsafe areas.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
If you're looking to extend your workout, the trail connects to other paths, allowing for a longer and more varied hiking experience. Combine this with the scenic views, and you have a great way to get your exercise in while enjoying the natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail: Uphill & Downhill
While the trail is generally well-marked, it can become narrow in places, especially when passing other hikers or their pets. Be prepared for this, and ensure your dog is on a leash to avoid any issues. The terrain itself is a mix of packed earth and some rocky sections, so sturdy footwear is highly recommended.
Some hikers mention the possibility of continuing on to other connected trails, offering a chance to extend your adventure. If you're looking for a longer trek, explore these options, but be sure to have a map or navigation app handy, as the trail system can become more complex.
Wildlife and Flora Encounters
More notably, there have been sightings of cottonmouth snakes, particularly near rocks. This serves as a reminder to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially when stepping over or near rocky areas. Always give wildlife plenty of space and never attempt to feed or disturb them.
Botanically, the trail winds through sections featuring native Arkansas trees such as Ash, Gum, Persimmons, Ponderosa pine, and various species of Oak. You'll also encounter interesting mossy boulders and rocks displaying a range of colors, from creamy white to shell pink and dark gray, adding visual interest to your hike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit