Rising more than a thousand feet above the Arkansas River Valley, Pinnacle Mountain is the most visible central Arkansas landmark. Pinnacle Mountain is a day-use park dedicated to environmental education, recreation and preservation.
Getting to the Top
There are two hiking trails up the mountain and a hiking trail along the Little Maumelle River. The “Kingfisher Trail” is paved for strollers and people who don’t want to hike. As the name suggests, there is excellent bird watching along this trail.
The two trails up the mountain can be quite a hike even though it is just about 2 miles up the mountain.
While it won’t impress the serious mountain climber or hiker, the west trail is rocky in places and the novice might have a hard time making it to the peaks, however, most of the trail is well marked and marginally sloped. The east trail is more of a vertical climb and more difficult.
Park staff gives several guided hikes per year. Call the park if you’re interested in taking one of these.
What Can You See?
Once you make it to the pinnacle of the mountain, there are two peaks which give you a great view of the valley. You made it this far, be sure to check them both out. My favorite spot is the one overlooking the Arkansas River. On the other peak, there is a great view of the Arkansas River Valley forests that surround the mountain.
What Else?
Picnicking, camping, fishing, hiking and outdoor sports are welcomed at the park. Picnic sites, a pavilion and launch ramps for boating can be found within the park. The park has many special education programs throughout the year that teach about the environment and wildlife of the mountain.
How Do You Get There?
The park is located in Roland which is just outside of Little Rock. To reach Pinnacle Mountain State Park, take Exit #9 off I-430 at Little Rock and travel seven miles west on Ark. 10, then go two miles north on Ark. 300.
If you want more information, please call the visitor’s center at (501) 868-5806
Follow the link below to see some more photographs of Pinnacle.
