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Sunset Trail: A Remote Hiking Experience

Discover Hot Springs National Park's longest and most challenging trail, offering remote wilderness and stunning views.

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The Sunset Trail, the longest in Hot Springs National Park, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through the park's most remote areas, with diverse terrain and scenic views. It's a must-do for experienced hikers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Sunset Trail

  • 201 Martingale Dr, Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, 71901, US

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail can be rocky and uneven in sections.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the trail is long and strenuous.
  • Pay attention to the orange blazes and signage to stay on the maintained trail and avoid trespassing on private property.
  • Consider breaking the trail into smaller sections if you don't want to hike the entire 13-17 mile loop.
  • Be aware of the weather conditions, as the trail can be more challenging during wet or icy conditions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center, access the Sunset Trail via Hot Springs Mountain Drive or the Grand Promenade. Follow the signs for the Hot Springs Mountain Trail, which connects to the Sunset Trail. The initial climb can be steep.

  • Public Transport

    The Hot Springs Trolley may offer routes that stop near trailheads. Check the current routes and schedules. From the trolley stop, follow walking directions to the trailhead.

  • Driving

    Drive to one of the parking areas at the trailheads, such as West Mountain Summit, Blacksnake Road, Cedar Glades Road, or Gulpha Gorge Campground. Parking availability varies, especially during peak season. From the parking area, follow the signs to the Sunset Trail. Parking fees may apply in certain areas.

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Discover more about Sunset Trail

The Sunset Trail is the longest and most challenging trail in Hot Springs National Park. Circling around the town and following a ridge that bounds the park to the northwest, the trail offers dynamic views and a diverse range of terrains. This makes it a unique and immersive experience for those seeking to escape the urban environment and delve into nature. The trail is divided into three main sections: West Mountain, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Stonebridge Road. Each section presents its own distinct characteristics and points of interest. The West Mountain section, stretching 2.8 miles, features the highest point in the park, Music Mountain, offering views of the southern portion of Hot Springs National Park and Lake Hamilton. The Sugarloaf Mountain section spans 2.6 miles, traversing the ridge of Sugarloaf Mountain and offering a visit to Balanced Rock, a scenic vista. The Stonebridge Road section covers 3.8 miles, passing through land that was once part of the Fordyce family estate and alongside Ricks Pond, an ideal spot for aquatic wildlife viewing. For those looking to complete the entire loop, the Sunset Trail can be combined with other trails like Hot Springs Mountain trails, North Mountain trails, and West Mountain trails, creating a strenuous 15-17 mile hike. However, hikers should remain vigilant and stay on the maintained Sunset Trail, following the orange blazes to avoid straying onto private property.

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