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Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area: A Haven for Recreation and Conservation

Explore scenic trails, rock climb, and witness unique species at Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area, a conservation haven near Little Rock, Arkansas.

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Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area, located near Little Rock, Arkansas, offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation and conservation. With hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing opportunities, the 373-acre natural area protects rare plant and animal species while providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area

  • Monday 6 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-7 pm
  • Friday 6 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Nature Conservancy in Arkansas' Facebook page for wet-weather trail closures before visiting.
  • Parking is limited, so arrive early or have a backup plan if the lot is full.
  • Download the MTB Project app for helpful trail maps and GPS navigation.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no restrooms or concessions available.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Little Rock, take State Highway 10 west for approximately 8.5 miles. Turn right onto Barrett Road and continue for 1.2 miles. The entrance to Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area will be on your left. Please note that Google Maps may provide inaccurate directions, so it's best to use the written directions provided by the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission. Parking is free in the designated parking area. However, the lot is small and fills quickly, especially on weekends. There are no fees or tolls to access the area.

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Discover more about Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area

Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area, a 373-acre expanse in Roland, Arkansas, stands as a testament to conservation and outdoor recreation. Managed through a partnership between The Nature Conservancy and the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, this area protects rare species and offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature. The ridge itself, a prominent feature of the eastern Ouachita Mountains, reaches a summit of 920 feet above sea level. This vantage point provides panoramic views, including the iconic Pinnacle Mountain and the expansive Lake Maumelle. The unique geological composition of the ridge, characterized by Ouachita Mountain Sandstone Outcrop Barrens, creates a habitat for plant and animal species typically found in drier, western climates. Among the species of conservation concern are the southeastern bat, the western diamondback rattlesnake, and Wright's cliffbrake, a western desert fern. Rattlesnake Ridge offers over 6 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, catering to various skill levels. Rock climbing is another popular activity, with bolted routes available in the Nowlin Creek Climbing Area. The area is open from dawn to dusk, with a gate that is locked each evening. Visitors should be aware that the parking lot has limited capacity, and access may be restricted when full. Additionally, the trails may be closed during wet weather to prevent damage. The natural area plays a vital role in protecting the water quality of Lake Maumelle, a primary drinking water source for central Arkansas. By maintaining the forested floodplain along Nowlin Creek, Rattlesnake Ridge helps to reduce flood impacts and keep sediment out of the water supply.

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