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Pinnacle Mountain West Summit Trail
One of the most popular hikes in Central Arkansas is the West Summit Trail at Pinnacle Mountain State park, which starts from the parking lot, just off Highway 300. While there’s no Visitor Center at Pinnacle Mountain proper, there are very nice restrooms, picnic and playground facilities on the west side of the mountain (the park’s Visitor Center is 3 miles east on Fulk Mountain). The West Summit Trail is a must-do for locals and visitors alike. While considered “strenuous,” you’ll see people of all ages and physical conditions climbing it. Leashed dogs are welcome, but just remember to bring plenty of water for pups and peeps. Marked with yellow blazes and elevation markers, the trail is fairly wide and rocky. Steep, but not too steep, it gives some awesome views to the west as you look over your shoulder toward Lake Maumelle and Rattlesnake Ridge. About two-thirds of the way up the trail at Marker 7, you can either go left on an easier, curved section, or right over a more direct and challenging route over boulders and up the steep “sidewalk” to the top. Rock climbers often take this right-hand path to access the south face of Pinnacle, where several climbing routes are established. Because climbers often frequent this area, do NOT throw anything from the summit.
The summit affords incredible 360° views of the Arkansas River, Lake Maumelle, Rattlesnake Ridge and downtown Little Rock. If you’re not too out of breath, you can traverse due north about 200 yards to the “other” (and less-visited) summit of Pinnacle Mountain. If you’re looking for a classic hike near Little Rock, this is it!
Pinnacle Mountain East Summit Trail
If you want to really challenge yourself, the East Summit Trail at Pinnacle Mountain State Park just outside Little Rock is ready when you are. While the still-strenuous but easier West Summit Trail is primarily one long climb, the East Summit at least offers a few sections that are relatively flat where you can catch your breath between extremely steep and bouldery sections. The upper boulder field is considered Class 3, and you’ll probably need to use your hands to navigate some of the large boulders. Many less-sure footed hikers use the “butt scoot” method to descend the steepest sections. But the challenge (and the views) are worth it.
Start from the East Summit Parking Lot on Pinnacle Valley Road. And remember: if the parking lot is full, the park is full. Come back another day, or find another hike. Walk about 10 yards out of the parking lot, take the right fork and look for the red and white blazes. The 1.5 mile trail starts out easy enough, but soon reaches a couple of very steep, technical sections. Dogs and small children are not advised. The advantage of the East Summit, though, is that it takes you through some gorgeous 40-foot rock formations on either side of the upper boulder field. Rock climbers can sometimes be seen on these walls. Continuing to the top, you’re met with the same gorgeous and classic Pinnacle Mountain summit views as the West Summit Trail. From the top, you can either descend the same way you came up, or take the West Summit Trail down to the base, and take the very moderate Base Trail about a mile and a half back to the East Summit Parking Lot.