Butterfield Trail Loop and Coyote Cave are part of the Fitzgerald Mountain Trail System, ten miles of trails near Bayyari Park in Springdale. Park at Bayyari Park or use the Fitzgerald Trails parking lot off of Dodd Street. The trails were created with mountain bikers in mind, but hikers will also enjoy this system. Trails are rated from easy to double black. Butterfield Trail is rated moderate (blue) but be aware Coyote Cave trail branching from it is rated black. The loop is 2.7 miles.
Butterfield Trail is an easy hike on a soft surface of dirt and smaller rocks with the occasional larger rock, but the trail is clear of roots and well maintained. It features switchbacks and berms for mountain bikers. It is well shaded. Mountain bikers frequent this trail, so hikers must be prepared to step aside. It is also posted at the trailheads that if you are leaving muddy prints, the trail is too wet to use.
Coyote Cave is a black rated trail with jumps, drops and gaps. It is narrow in spots and consists of large stones beautifully pieced together. Near the end of the climb, Coyote Cave is tucked trailside into the bluffs. It’s a great spot to scramble up the rocks and explore.
Coyote Cave parallels Butterfield Loop and exits at Five Points junction. You can complete Butterfield Loop Trail or access Fitzgerald Trail and Best Trail Ever. The remaining hike on Butterfield Loop is a series of free flowing switchbacks and berms that take you past the water towers before looping back to the trailhead.
Trail Information
Butterfield Trail Loop and Coyote Cave
Best Spot for a Rest
Definitely plan on spending some time at Coyote Cave to sit and explore.
Best Spot For Pictures
The cave and bluffs are picturesque. There are a couple of spots where the Butterfield Trail opens up and you can snap a picture of Springdale and the surrounding countryside.
Bike requirements
A mountain bike is required. Hybrids will be challenged by the technical aspects. A hard tail is adequate for a majority of the trails but the Black and Double Black trails warrant a full suspension.
Clothing Requirements
Sturdy shoes and either jeans or bug spray for warmer months. The brush trailside is thick in places.
Drive Distance from Central Arkansas/NWA/NEA
Fitzgerald Mountain is only 2.5 miles from downtown Springdale, making this an incredibly accessible trail system.
Elevation Change Over the Trail
252 feet
Family Friendly
Yes. Children will enjoy the cave, although the climb does include some larger rocks and a bit of a steep ascent.
Flora and Fauna Expectations
Squirrels, birds, deer, hardwood and wildflowers. Watch out for snakes, poison ivy and ticks in spring/summer.
Footwear Requirements
Sturdy shoes that will do well over both a soft and rocky surface.
Nearby Food/Drink Options
Springdale has a wide selection off Emma Street and Thompson Ave (71B). Don't leave town without trying one of the many taquerias.
Peak Times
Weekdays after work hours and weekends.
Trail Conditions
Soft surface, pebbles and in some spots, large rock paths. Also berms, drops and jumps.
Tree Cover
The trail is mostly shaded.
Water Crossings
There are several ravine crossings that will be wet in spring or other periods of heavy rain.
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