Hot Springs National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient thermal springs, and a charming historic town. If you are driving it is very easy drive through some beautiful greenery especially once you get to Ouachita National Forest. The park was established in 1921 to protect the thermal water that is more than 4,000 years old. The ancient thermal springs and mountain view's make the park a site to be seen. Hot Springs National Park itself did not require an entrance fee.
Dos:
Discover Lake Catherine: Embark on the Lake Catherine Waterfall Trail, a scenic 1.6-mile loop that takes you through lush woods, alongside the tranquil lake, and to a charming mini waterfall. You also get to cross a very fun bouncy bridge (yes we jumped up and down on this scary thing). This trail is an easy stroll with little elevation gain.
Witness Sunset at West Mountain Lookout: Make your way to the West Mountain Lookout Point during sunset. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to a panoramic view of the town below, painted in warm hues as the sun sets over the horizon.
Relax at Quapaw Bathhouse: After a day of exploring, indulge in relaxation by visiting the Quapaw Bathhouse. Soaking in the mineral-rich waters offers a soothing experience that's been cherished for centuries. Hot Springs has 9 historic bathhouses to choose from.
Collect Mineral Water: Take advantage of the opportunity to fill up your water jug with mineral water from various points in the town. While there are claims of health benefits, be cautious as the water can be scorching hot.
Explore Downtown: Stroll down Main Street in downtown Hot Springs. Experience the town's rich history, live music, and local culture by visiting places like Maxine's and the Ohio Club.
Stop at the Visitor center: Located in Fordyce Bathhouse you can collect your stamp and information here. Exploring the historic bathhouses helps you understand the town's fascinating history. The park is within an hours drive of Little Rock.
Camp or Stay at a Downtown Hotel: For camping I recommend Gulpha Gorge Campground in the park for $34 a night. If you prefer not to camp then Hotel Hale is a great recommendation.
Hike Goat Rock Trail:A moderately easy 1.1-mile trail unveils captivating vistas of the Ouachita Mountains and grants a glimpse of the recharge zone that feeds the thermal springs.
Walk Grande Promenade: An easy 0.7 out and back in the heart of Bathouse row. The bath has historical markers along the way to learn about the bathhouses and the parks history.
Don’ts:
Expect Remote Wilderness: While Hot Springs National Park boasts natural beauty, it's important to remember that the town's history and bathhouses are an integral part of its identity. This is not the hikers paradise. Instead embrace the town's unique blend of nature and culture.
Hike After Dark: We stayed a little too late and ended up having to hike back as it got dark without the proper gear required. Hiking after dark without proper gear can be risky. Plan your hikes during daylight hours and ensure you have appropriate equipment if staying later.
Choose Unreliable Accommodation: Avoid staying in places that have been declared "permanently closed."Yes the story for this one begins and ends with making sure you read reviews and call a place before booking. I highly recommend spending the extra money and staying downtown.
Forget Suitable Footwear: Ensure you have proper footwear, especially if you plan to hike. While Chaco sandals might work for easy trails, investing in sturdy hiking shoes is essential for more challenging terrain.
Mix Ancient Waters and Alcohol: While it might sound adventurous, avoid mixing ancient mineral water from the fountains with alcohol. It's best to appreciate the water's natural qualities separately. The water does not cure the hangover the Ohio Club gave me.
Get Stranded Without Preparation: Don't find yourself stuck with unexpected challenges, like flat tires in the middle of nowhere. We spend a nice afternoon at the Hillbilly hideout due to this unforeseen complication. Always be prepared with essentials like a spare tire, tools, and a plan for unforeseen situations.
Hot Springs National Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the allure of ancient thermal springs, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a charming town rich in history and culture. Whether you're soaking in the mineral-rich waters, hiking along picturesque trails, or exploring the vibrant downtown scene, this destination has something for everyone. Overall Hot Springs was a "soft" introduction to national parks for me as well as a chaotic weekend with my best friends. Don't worry my hiking and national parks expertise greatly evolved after this weekend.
Onto the next sky!
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