Sunset Trail, Hot Springs Travel Guide

4.7 (220)

Hike the longest trail in Hot Springs National Park, exploring diverse terrains and scenic vistas on this 10-mile adventure.

Sunset Trail, the longest in Hot Springs National Park, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through diverse terrains and remote areas. This 10-mile (one-way) trail immerses hikers in the natural beauty surrounding the historic spa city, with options to explore shorter sections or combine it with other trails for a longer loop.

A brief summary to Sunset Trail

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sunset Trail.

Divide the trail into sections. The Sunset Trail is split into three sections, allowing for shorter hikes.
Stay on marked trails. There are many unmarked spurs that lead to private property.
Check the weather forecast. Conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for varying temperatures and potential rain.
Bring plenty of water. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during warmer months.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Sunset Trail on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Sunset Trail, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center, head west on Central Avenue. Turn left onto Reserve Street, then right onto Hot Springs Mountain Drive. Follow the road to the West Mountain Summit, where you can access the Sunset Trailhead. Parking is available at the summit. No fees are required to access the trail.
Public Transport

From downtown Hot Springs, take the City Cab bus Route 1 towards West Mountain. Get off at the West Mountain Summit stop. From there, the Sunset Trailhead is a short walk away. A single ride fare is $1.25 [https://www.cityofhs.org/departments/transit].
Driving

From downtown Hot Springs, drive west on Central Avenue. Turn left onto Reserve Street, then right onto Hot Springs Mountain Drive. Follow the road to the West Mountain Summit, where you can access the Sunset Trailhead. Limited parking is available at the summit. Metered parking in downtown Hot Springs costs $1 per hour.

Discover more about Sunset Trail

The Sunset Trail in Hot Springs National Park is a 10-mile (one way) path that showcases the park's diverse landscapes and more secluded areas. Established as part of the park's trail system, which evolved from early walking paths, the Sunset Trail provides a dynamic hiking experience for those looking to escape the urban environment.Crossing various terrains, the trail is often divided into three sections: West Mountain (2.8 miles), Sugarloaf Mountain (2.6 miles), and Stonebridge Road (3.8 miles). Each section presents unique features, from the panoramic views on West Mountain, where Music Mountain, the park's highest point, is located, to the scenic vistas around Balanced Rock on Sugarloaf Mountain. The Stonebridge Road section passes through land once part of the Fordyce family estate and includes Ricks Pond, a haven for wildlife.For a more extended adventure, the Sunset Trail can be combined with the Hot Springs Mountain trails, North Mountain trails, and West Mountain trails to complete a strenuous 15-17 mile loop. However, hikers should pay attention to signage and follow the orange blazes to avoid straying onto private property.The trail's history is intertwined with the broader narrative of Hot Springs National Park, initially a reservation established in 1832 to protect the area's thermal springs. These springs were revered by Native American tribes, including the Quapaw, Caddo, and Choctaw, who believed in their healing properties. Later, the area attracted American settlers drawn to the therapeutic waters, leading to the development of bathhouses and the town of Hot Springs.