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Goat Rock Trail: Scenic Views in Hot Springs National Park

Hike the Goat Rock Trail for panoramic views of Hot Springs National Park and the Ouachita Mountains. A moderate trail with rewarding vistas.

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The Goat Rock Trail in Hot Springs National Park offers hikers stunning views of the Ouachita Mountains and the surrounding Hot Springs area. This moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail leads to the Goat Rock Overlook, providing panoramic vistas of Indian Mountain and Gulpha Gorge.

A brief summary to Goat Rock Trail

  • Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, 71901, US

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be rocky and uneven in places.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated on the trail.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for the best weather and vibrant foliage.
  • Keep an eye out for novaculite stones, a unique geological feature of the area.
  • Leash your pets and clean up after them to help preserve the park's natural environment.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach the Goat Rock Trailhead by car, start from the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center at 369 Central Ave. Head south on Central Avenue and follow the signs for the national park. Continue on the park road until you reach the intersection with North Mountain Drive. Turn right onto North Mountain Drive and follow it for approximately 2 miles until you reach the Goat Rock Trailhead parking area. Parking is limited. There are no entrance fees for the trail itself.

  • Walking

    To walk to Goat Rock Trail from downtown Hot Springs, start at Bathhouse Row and head south on Central Avenue. Turn left onto Fountain Street, following signs for the national park. Continue for about 2.5 miles to reach the Goat Rock Trailhead. This is a scenic but uphill walk. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation options in Hot Springs are limited, you can use the local bus service, Hot Springs Transit. Catch the bus from downtown to the nearest stop to Hot Springs National Park. From there, walk approximately 1 mile to reach the Goat Rock Trailhead. There are no direct public transport routes to Goat Rock Trail. A single bus fare is $1.25.

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Discover more about Goat Rock Trail

The Goat Rock Trail is a popular hiking destination within Hot Springs National Park, known for its scenic beauty and moderate difficulty. The trail is a 2.4-mile out-and-back path that meanders through diverse terrain, including lush forests and rocky outcroppings. Starting from the North Mountain Overlook, the trail gently descends, offering several vantage points with sweeping views of Hot Springs and the Ouachita Mountains. The path is well-maintained, with a mix of packed gravel and dirt surfaces, though some sections are rocky and uneven. Novaculite stones, a unique type of chert, are scattered along the trail, adding to the area's geological interest. As hikers approach Goat Rock, a short side trip leads to the Goat Rock Overlook. This rocky outcropping provides stunning views of Indian Mountain and the Gulpha Gorge. The trail is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience the changing beauty of the seasons. Spring and fall are particularly popular times to hike, with vibrant foliage displays. While hiking, be aware of the natural water bars that cross the trail; these help prevent erosion but can be tripping hazards. The trail is dog-friendly, but pets must be kept on a leash.

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