
Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Iconic Arkansas state park offering challenging summit hikes, scenic mountain biking trails, and stunning panoramic views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking

Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Arkansas state park offering challenging summit hikes, scenic mountain biking trails, and stunning panoramic views.
"The summit trail is a challenging climb, but the breathtaking views from the top are well worth it!"

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear hiking shoes with excellent traction for the rocky and bouldery sections of the summit trail.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, especially for the strenuous summit hike, as you'll need to rest often.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

West Summit Trail
West Summit Trailhead
A challenging 1.4-mile climb with bouldering and stunning panoramic views from the top.

Summit Views
Pinnacle Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the Arkansas River Valley, Lake Maumelle, and surrounding landscapes.

Mountain Biking Monument Trails
Various trailheads
Professionally built mountain bike trails, including the black diamond Carnasaw trail, offering thrilling rides.

New Visitor Center & Loblolly Ice Cream
Visitor Center
Explore exhibits, gear, and enjoy a sweet treat from Loblolly Creamery after your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb: Summit Trail Tips
Park Access & New Visitor Center
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear hiking shoes with excellent traction for the rocky and bouldery sections of the summit trail.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, especially for the strenuous summit hike, as you'll need to rest often.
⛰️ East vs. West Summit Trail
The East Summit Trail is labeled 'very hard,' while the West Summit Trail is challenging but more manageable.
🚲 Bike the Monument Trails
Explore the professionally built mountain bike trails, many of which are also open to hikers.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear hiking shoes with excellent traction for the rocky and bouldery sections of the summit trail.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, especially for the strenuous summit hike, as you'll need to rest often.
⛰️ East vs. West Summit Trail
The East Summit Trail is labeled 'very hard,' while the West Summit Trail is challenging but more manageable.
🚲 Bike the Monument Trails
Explore the professionally built mountain bike trails, many of which are also open to hikers.
🍦 Treat Yourself Post-Hike
The new Visitor Center offers Loblolly ice cream – a perfect reward after a challenging climb.
🧘♀️ Find Your Peace on Trails
Enjoy the solitude and respect fellow hikers and bikers; it's a great place for solo adventures.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking views from Pinnacle Mountain's summit, calling the challenging West Summit Trail hike well worth the effort. The park is praised for its well-maintained trails, opportunities for exercise, and scenic beauty, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Some find the climb strenuous, but the rewarding vistas and natural surroundings are consistently highlighted as major positives.
"Pinnacle Mountain is absolutely breathtaking! We took the west Summit Trail to the top and oh my gosh, even though it is a very challenging climb getting to the top it was well worth it. You have to do it at least once.! The last two or three mile markers is when you start climbing the boulders, but it’s very good exercise! My recommendation is to wear good hiking shoes with good traction and take plenty of water because you will stop and rest a lot along the way but well worth it!"
Catherine Posey
"Get away to the scenic wonders!
In 2023, my husband and I visited this beautiful state park and hiked the base trail. We chose to return because we didn't have enough time to hike to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain.
On March 24, 2025, we hiked to the West Summit Trail. This is a 1.4-mile round trip and an out and back trail type with 734 ft elevation gain. We completed the hike in 2 hours. The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked. There are a few seats along the trail where you may rest or enjoy the scenery. The hike offers breathtaking views of the surroundings and is enjoyable while being rather difficult. This trail requires some bouldering and scrambling due to its steep climb and rocky terrain, especially after point-7, where the path becomes entirely bouldery. We stayed on the summit for about thirty minutes, taking in the expansive views of the Arkansas River Valley, Lake Maumelle, and the surrounding area."
Debashri Manna
"West side, three quarters of a mile climbed up in about forty five minutes resting from time to time. Rocky but fun trails with amazing views!
Secure to hike solo, plenty of hikers yet you get your space and peace, everyone is respectful. The main entrance to the park has moved to the new visitor center so you will have to use the new road to access the west summit picnic area."
Isabel Ibarra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pinnacle Mountain State Park is located just west of Little Rock, Arkansas. The main entrance has moved to the new Visitor Center, so ensure you use the updated road access.
Public transport options to the park are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
The park offers various marked trails for hiking and biking. Download offline maps or use a reliable GPS device, especially for longer trails.
Currently, there are no shuttle services operating within Pinnacle Mountain State Park. Visitors typically drive between trailheads and points of interest.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park is conveniently located just minutes west of Little Rock, making it an easy day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pinnacle Mountain State Park does not typically charge an entrance fee for general access to trails and the visitor center. However, specific activities or programs may have associated costs.
Park hours can vary seasonally. The Visitor Center generally has specific operating hours, while trails are often accessible from dawn to dusk. It's recommended to check the official park website for the most current information.
No, advance booking is not required for general hiking on the trails. However, for group events or specific guided programs, reservations might be necessary.
The main entrance to Pinnacle Mountain State Park has been relocated to the new Visitor Center. Follow signs for the Visitor Center to access the park's primary facilities and trailheads.
For standard day use, no special passes or permits are required. Enjoy the trails and facilities freely.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The West Summit Trail is highly recommended for its challenging climb and rewarding summit views. The Base Trail offers a less strenuous option.
Yes, families can enjoy the park. While the summit trail is challenging, the Base Trail is more manageable, and the Visitor Center offers engaging exhibits. Some visitors have successfully brought young children to the summit.
Yes, the park offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, particularly on the Arkansas River. Check out resources like the Arkansas Watertrails Partnership for more information on water activities.
Absolutely! The summit offers incredible panoramic views perfect for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The park features a new Visitor Center with exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and the popular Loblolly Creamery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no full-service restaurants within the park, the new Visitor Center features Loblolly Creamery, offering ice cream and light snacks.
Yes, picnic areas are available throughout the park, making it a great spot to enjoy a packed meal amidst nature.
The park is a short drive from Little Rock, which offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit all tastes and budgets.
The Visitor Center has Loblolly Creamery, which serves ice cream and potentially other light refreshments. For a full coffee shop experience, you'll need to head into Little Rock.
Food truck presence can be sporadic and depends on local events. It's best to check local event listings or social media for any scheduled food trucks.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the panoramic views from the summit. Golden hour light is particularly stunning.
The summit of Pinnacle Mountain provides unparalleled views. The rocky terrain and lush forest also offer great opportunities for nature photography.
For personal use, no special permit is typically required. However, commercial photography or large-scale productions may need authorization from the park.
Drone usage is generally restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the park's specific regulations regarding drones before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive summit views. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions during sunrise or sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples & Date Ideas
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Summit Trails
For those seeking a less intense experience, the Base Trail provides a more moderate hiking option. This trail allows visitors to enjoy the park's natural beauty without the extreme elevation gain. Many visitors find that even the Base Trail offers a good workout and a chance to connect with nature. Remember to check the park's official website for any trail closures or advisories before your visit.
Mountain Biking Adventures
Riders can expect a mix of terrain, from flowing singletrack through lush forests to more technical sections. The park's commitment to trail development ensures a dynamic and enjoyable riding experience. It's advisable for bikers to be aware of trail etiquette, yielding to hikers and other users when necessary.
Family Fun and Activities
Beyond hiking, families can explore the park's natural beauty through picnicking and enjoying the scenic surroundings. The park's proximity to Little Rock also means that families can easily combine a visit to Pinnacle Mountain with other nearby attractions. The opportunity to experience nature and get some exercise makes it a refreshing alternative to screen time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit