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Caddo Bend Trailhead: A Lakeside Hiking Gem

Hike the scenic Caddo Bend Trail in Lake Ouachita State Park for stunning lake views, natural beauty, and a memorable outdoor adventure.

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Located in Lake Ouachita State Park, the Caddo Bend Trailhead provides access to a scenic 4-mile loop trail that winds along a peninsula in Arkansas's largest lake. Offering beautiful views, diverse terrain, and abundant natural attractions, it's a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.

A brief summary to Caddo Bend Trailhead

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes due to the trail's rocky and uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no water sources along the trail.
  • Check the park's schedule for guided interpretive hikes to learn more about the area's natural and cultural history.
  • Visit during spring or fall for pleasant temperatures and beautiful wildflower displays or fall foliage.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Hot Springs, Arkansas, take Highway 270 West for approximately 22 miles. Turn right onto Highway 227 (Pine Mountain Road) and continue for about 12 miles to Lake Ouachita State Park. Follow signs to the Caddo Bend Trailhead, located near the park's amphitheater. Parking is available at the trailhead. There are no fees for parking or accessing the trail.

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Discover more about Caddo Bend Trailhead

The Caddo Bend Trailhead marks the start of a memorable hiking experience within Lake Ouachita State Park near Mountain Pine, Arkansas. The 4-mile Caddo Bend Trail loops around a peninsula, offering stunning views of Lake Ouachita and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. The trail presents a diverse landscape, including large boulder gardens, quartz outcroppings, and an observation deck with panoramic lake vistas. Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of wildflowers and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer and various bird species. The trail also features interpretive signs that provide insights into the area's geography, wildlife, and history, including the impact of a 2011 tornado and subsequent restoration efforts. While considered moderately challenging, the trail involves some elevation changes and rocky sections, making sturdy footwear advisable. The well-marked path guides hikers through varied terrain, with options to shorten the route via access roads. Whether you're seeking a leisurely nature walk or a more invigorating hike, the Caddo Bend Trail offers a rewarding experience in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest.

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