The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Ozark-St. Francis National Forest

The Yellow Rock Trail offers a delightful journey through the unique geology of the Ozarks, transitioning from rugged sections with massive boulders to serene cedar glades and dense forests. You'll find yourself immersed in nature, with the path leading you to the dramatic Yellowrock Overlook, which provides expansive panoramic views of the Lee Creek Valley. This 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hiking route is rated easy, with 480 feet (146 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, you have the flexibility of two distinct starting points. The route from the CCC Scenic Overlook is largely flat and very accessible, making it a great option for families or those seeking an easier hike. Alternatively, starting from the Lee Creek Trailhead involves a more adventurous and slightly steeper initial climb through a narrow gorge. Fall is a particularly popular time to visit for the stunning autumn colors, but spring and summer also offer beautiful scenery.

This National Recreation Trail is considered the iconic hike in Devil's Den State Park, renowned for its stunning Yellowrock Overlook, often compared to the famous Whitaker Point. The trail also showcases extensive rock work built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, including a small pavilion at the top. It's a fantastic way to experience the diverse ecosystem and geological formations of the region.

This section of the Ozark Highlands Trail offers a rewarding journey through rugged forestland to Hare Mountain, the highest point on the entire OHT. You'll hike through diverse hardwood and pine forests, encountering scenic bluffs and rock formations along the way. The trail provides expansive panoramas of the surrounding Ozark wilderness, especially from higher elevations.

Starting from the Morgan Fields trailhead, this 1.9-mile (3.1 km) hike involves a steady ascent of 753 feet (229 metres), taking approximately 1 hour and 1 minute. While rated easy, the terrain is rocky and rugged, so wear appropriate footwear. Fall is an especially vibrant time to visit, as the changing leaves create a kaleidoscope of colors across the landscape.

Beyond its natural beauty, this segment of the Ozark Highlands Trail is steeped in history, passing old rock walls that were once part of a historic roadbed. The Hare Mountain area is also the site of an annual "Hare Mountain Hike-In," reflecting the trail's enduring appeal and community spirit. It's a great way to experience a significant part of the OHT's wilderness character.

The Ozark Highlands Trail: Matney Knob offers a compact yet engaging hiking experience, leading you through varied forest landscapes and down to the White River. You'll encounter rocky sections and switchbacks, with bluffs providing stunning overlooks of the river, making it a rewarding journey for its length. This 1.9-mile (3.1 km) route, despite its easy rating, includes 516 feet (157 metres) of elevation gain, which you can cover in about 55 minutes, giving you a good workout with high scenic payoff.

To plan your visit, head to the trailhead located conveniently off Highway 341, also known as Push Mountain Road, just south of the White River bridge. This section of the Ozark Highlands Trail is especially popular from fall through spring, and it's a fantastic option for winter hiking when many other trails are less accessible. Always check for current trail conditions, as some sections might have high weeds alongside the single track, though the tread itself is generally clear.

This segment is part of the larger Ozark Highlands Trail, celebrated as one of the premier long-distance hiking trails in the United States. The Matney Knob trail's varied terrain, from high ground with valley views to its descent to the White River, showcases the rugged beauty of the Ozarks. It's also a component of the proposed 700-mile Trans-Ozark Trail, highlighting its significance in the region's hiking network.

This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) section of the Ozark Highlands Trail, from its Western Terminus to Frog Bayou, offers a delightful immersion into the forested beauty of the Arkansas Ozarks. You'll wander through lush woodlands, encountering scenic bluffs and interesting rock formations, with the chance to spot small streams and seasonal waterfalls, especially after a good rain. It's a perfect, relatively flat introduction to the OHT's natural features, taking about 1 hour and 10 minutes with a gentle 89 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain.

To plan your visit, head to Lake Fort Smith State Park, where the Western Terminus is conveniently located behind the visitor center, offering ample parking. The trail is clearly marked with reflective white blazes, making navigation simple. While accessible year-round, the fall through spring seasons are particularly popular, with winter providing a unique, quiet hiking experience. Always check for current trail conditions, as sections can be muddy after wet weather.

This segment is part of the much longer Ozark Highlands Trail, a designated National Recreation Trail renowned for its rugged beauty and solitude. It provides a glimpse into the OHT's character, showcasing diverse plant life and historical elements like old home sites. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a short, accessible hike or a gentle entry point into one of the United States' premier long-distance trails.