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Bashore Ridge Loop Trail is located in Hobbs State Park just east of Rogers, Arkansas. Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area is the largest park in Arkansas and has 52 miles of trail, including the 24 mile Hidden Diversity Multi-Use Trail, which is open to hikers, bikers and horseback riders. You can access the Bashore Ridge Loop by Piney Road, which is on Highway 12 as you head toward the park’s visitor center. This is also the access area for Dutton Hollow Loop and Little Clifty Creek Loop. There is a bathroom and water fountain at the trailhead.
The trail is an easy to moderate hike with a gravel and dirt surface and the occasional tree root. The loop is three miles, but with the access trail and the small arm down to the lake, hikers can expect a round trip of 4.5 miles. The trail gently slopes toward Beaver Lake, but the pine trees and hardwoods do not provide a view until you reach the halfway point. Follow the branch trail down to Beaver Lake Overlook at Blackburn Arm. There is a nice view with two benches. Hikers can also descend a steep trail to some broad rocks at lake level and rest near the water.
Overall, this trail is a great hike or ride, although it is narrow in spots, making it a little more difficult to navigate when in heavy use. There are wider areas where bikers and horseback riders can pass and a hitching post for horses near the lake overlook. Plenty of shade means the trail is pleasant year round and is a lovely hike, bike or ride through the woods.