Background

Hot Springs Mountain Tower: A View from the Top

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Hot Springs National Park and the Ouachita Mountains from the iconic Hot Springs Mountain Tower.

4.5

Ascend the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains and Hot Springs National Park. This 216-foot structure offers both open-air and enclosed observation decks, providing a unique perspective of the Arkansas landscape.

A brief summary to Hot Springs Mountain Tower

  • Monday 9 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-8 pm
  • Friday 9 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Check the weather before you go; it can be cooler and windier at the top of the tower.
  • Consider hiking the Hot Springs Mountain Trail for a scenic route to the tower.
  • Bring your National Park Pass for a discount on admission.
  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for particularly spectacular panoramic views.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Hot Springs, follow Central Avenue north. Turn onto Hot Springs Mountain Drive and follow it uphill to the tower. Parking is available at the tower's base. Be prepared for a possible parking fee. There are no tolls on this route.

  • Public Transport

    Take the local bus service to the Hot Springs Transit Center. From there, take a taxi or rideshare service (Uber or Lyft) to Hot Springs Mountain Tower, as public transportation does not go directly to the tower. The fare for a taxi or rideshare typically costs around $10-$20.

  • Walking

    From the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center at 369 Central Avenue, head east. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Hot Springs Mountain Drive. Turn right onto Hot Springs Mountain Drive and follow the road uphill to the tower. The walk is approximately 2 miles and can be steep in some areas. Ensure you have comfortable shoes.

Unlock the Best of Hot Springs Mountain Tower

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Hot Springs Mountain Tower

The Hot Springs Mountain Tower stands as a beacon atop Hot Springs Mountain, offering visitors unparalleled views of the region. From its summit, one can gaze out over 140 square miles of the surrounding countryside, encompassing the entirety of Hot Springs National Park and a portion of the Ouachita Mountains. The tower features two observation decks: an open-air deck for an immersive experience and an enclosed, climate-controlled deck that houses exhibits detailing the park's and local history. The tower is the third to occupy this location. In 1877, Enoch Woolman, a local mill owner, erected a wooden observation tower to showcase the views from Hot Springs Mountain. This original structure was destroyed by lightning sometime between 1885 and 1895. In 1906, Charles N. Rix, president of Arkansas National Bank, replaced it with a steel tower. The Rix Tower stood until 1971 when it was deemed unsafe and dismantled. The current Hot Springs Mountain Tower was constructed in 1982 and opened to the public on June 3, 1983. Visitors can reach the top via an elevator that whisks them 216 feet to the observation decks. A gift shop at the base offers souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. Whether you drive up the scenic Hot Springs Mountain Drive or hike the 1.5-mile trail from Fountain Street, the Hot Springs Mountain Tower promises a memorable experience.

Popular Experiences near Hot Springs Mountain Tower

Popular Hotels near Hot Springs Mountain Tower

Select Currency