Sunset Trail
A challenging 13.5-mile loop trail in Hot Springs National Park, offering diverse terrain and scenic mountain overlooks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Sunset Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging 13.5-mile loop trail in Hot Springs National Park, offering diverse terrain and scenic mountain overlooks.
"It was a long trail with a nice scenic view at starting point."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for the steep, rocky, and uneven terrain. Trekking poles are recommended for added support.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
This is a long hike; carry ample water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sugarloaf Mountain Views
Sugarloaf Mountain section
Experience unique mountain characters and stunning scenic overlooks with occasional valley views.
Balanced Rock Trail
Balanced Rock Trail section
A picturesque part of the trail offering a great spot to pause and enjoy the natural beauty.
Historic Hot Springs Town
End of the trail
Conclude your hike by exploring the historic town and its famous landmarks, including the Arlington Hotel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Length & Terrain
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for the steep, rocky, and uneven terrain. Trekking poles are recommended for added support.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
This is a long hike; carry ample water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
⏰ Start Early
To complete the 13.5-mile trail, an early start is crucial for daylight and comfort.
⚠️ Check Trail Conditions
Always check the park's website for weather and trail status before your hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for the steep, rocky, and uneven terrain. Trekking poles are recommended for added support.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
This is a long hike; carry ample water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
⏰ Start Early
To complete the 13.5-mile trail, an early start is crucial for daylight and comfort.
⚠️ Check Trail Conditions
Always check the park's website for weather and trail status before your hike.
🚫 Leave No Trace
Follow principles to preserve the natural beauty of the park for everyone.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers praise the scenic beauty and varied terrain of Sunset Trail, with many enjoying the overlooks and the eventual return to the historic town. However, the trail's significant length and steep, rocky sections are noted as challenging, making it less suitable for young children or those seeking a casual stroll. Proper preparation with sturdy footwear and ample supplies is essential for a positive experience.
"Mountain vibes!
We trekked the Sunset Trail in Hot Springs National Park on 22nd March 2025 to experience the beauty of the Hot Springs’ mountains. This is the longest trail in this National Park which is moderately challenging because of its length. The trail spans three major roads making it a sort of segmented route: West Mountain, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Stonebridge Road. We began the trek from the Gulpha Gorge campground in an anticlockwise direction. This is a 13.5-mile loop trail type with 2385 ft elevation gain that leads us through town, along roads, and across several other trails. There were large stretches of flat terrain and long, gentle ascents throughout the route. We really liked the characters in the Sugarloaf mountains and Balanced Rock trail. Throughout the trail we found variety of wild flowers and branches with light pink blossoms. With the stunning views, we relished our snack on the Balanced Rock trail. After around 10-mile of trekking we crossed two scenic overlooks to reach the Canyon trail. As the trail descends it leads to the historic town of Hot Springs where we stopped at the hot water cascade to see the area's ancient geological past and some of its famous landmarks including the Arlington Hotel. We then proceeded to the campground via the Upper Dogwood and Gulpha Gorge trails. The Gulpha Gorge trail features good descent and switchbacks. The entire trail is well maintained and properly marked. It took us about 9 hours to finish the trek. Overall, the whole trail doesn’t have much impression on us but we had a good time.
Suggestions-
1) Please check the weather forecast and check the trail conditions from the park's website.
2) Start the trek little earlier.
3) Please wear sturdy shoes. Although we didn't use hiking poles on every section of the trail, but we believe it would be wise to have them on hand in case knee support is required.
4) Please bring snack and adequate water for this trek.
5) Please follow the principles of Leave No Trace."
Debashri Manna
"This is a nice trail but it has some steep parts that are not switchbacks; however it isn't too long. We saw several birds including an owl."
Linda Darling
"Breathtaking all around! Will definitely be going back so I can walk the trail further!
Only got pictures of the path leading to the top, decided to leave it in my truck so I wouldn’t be disturbed"
Mary Grossman-Clark
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sunset Trail is located within Hot Springs National Park. Access points vary depending on which section you plan to start from. Many hikers begin at the Gulpha Gorge campground, which is accessible by car.
Parking is available at various points along the trail, including near the Gulpha Gorge campground and other access roads. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Public transportation options are limited within Hot Springs National Park. Driving your own vehicle or using a ride-sharing service to reach a trailhead is the most common method.
Yes, while the full loop is 13.5 miles, there are shorter trails that connect to or branch off from Sunset Trail, allowing for shorter hikes.
While the trail is generally well-marked, it's advisable to use a trail map or a GPS app on your phone to ensure you stay on the correct path, especially given its length and varied terrain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry into Hot Springs National Park and hiking the Sunset Trail is free. There are no admission fees required.
Sunset Trail is open year-round during daylight hours. However, it's always best to check the official Hot Springs National Park website for any temporary closures or advisories.
Parking within Hot Springs National Park is generally free. However, always check for any posted signage regarding parking regulations.
Guided tours are not typically offered for Sunset Trail. It is designed as a self-guided hiking experience.
No permits are required for day hiking on Sunset Trail. However, if you plan on any overnight camping, you would need to check park regulations for permits.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Sunset Trail is considered moderately challenging due to its length (13.5 miles) and varied terrain, which includes steep, rocky sections and significant elevation gain.
You'll encounter diverse scenery, including wooded areas, scenic overlooks with valley views, unique rock formations like Balanced Rock, and sections that pass through the historic town of Hot Springs.
Restroom facilities are limited along the trail itself. It's best to use facilities at trailheads or visitor centers before you begin your hike.
The full 13.5-mile loop is challenging for young children due to its length and steep sections. While older, experienced children might manage, it's not ideal for very young kids who may struggle with the terrain.
Hikers have reported seeing various birds, including owls, and it's important to be aware of potential tick presence. Always practice wildlife safety and tick prevention.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly on the Sunset Trail itself. You'll need to pack your own snacks and water for the hike.
The trail ends near the historic town of Hot Springs, where you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of dining options.
Picnicking is permitted in designated areas within Hot Springs National Park. Enjoying a packed meal on the trail is a great way to refuel.
Given the trail's length, pack plenty of water and high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and fruit.
Water fountains are not typically available along the Sunset Trail. It is essential to carry all the water you will need for the duration of your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Scenic overlooks, particularly on the Sugarloaf Mountain and Balanced Rock sections, offer breathtaking views. The historic town at the end also provides great photo opportunities.
Yes, the trail is named for its sunset views, and the overlooks provide excellent vantage points for capturing the golden hour light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Ensure your gear is protected from the elements.
Drone usage is restricted in National Parks. Always check the official Hot Springs National Park website for current drone regulations before flying.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a more dramatic atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏃♀️ Solo Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the 13.5-Mile Loop
Planning is crucial for this hike. It can take up to 9 hours to complete, so starting early is highly recommended to ensure you have ample daylight. Always check the park's website for current trail conditions and weather forecasts, as conditions can change. Bringing adequate water and snacks is non-negotiable, as there are no facilities along the trail.
While the trail is generally well-maintained and marked, having a map or using a GPS app can be beneficial to ensure you stay on course. The diverse terrain means you'll experience different environments, from wooded paths to open overlooks, making it a comprehensive exploration of the park's natural beauty.
Wildlife and Safety on the Trail
A significant concern for hikers, especially during warmer months, is the presence of ticks. It's crucial to take precautions such as wearing long clothing, using insect repellent, and performing thorough tick checks on yourself and your gear after the hike.
Beyond wildlife, the trail's steep and rocky sections pose a risk of slips and falls, particularly on descents. Wearing sturdy hiking shoes with good traction is paramount. Many hikers find trekking poles beneficial for stability and reducing strain on their knees.
Family Considerations for Sunset Trail
However, older children who are accustomed to hiking and have good stamina may enjoy parts of the trail. If you're considering bringing children, it's advisable to plan for shorter segments of the trail rather than attempting the entire loop. Always assess your children's capabilities and be prepared to turn back if needed.
For families looking for a more manageable experience within Hot Springs National Park, exploring shorter, more accessible trails or focusing on specific scenic overlooks might be a better option. Always prioritize safety and ensure everyone in the group is adequately prepared for the conditions.
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