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About

Hot Springs National Park is located in central Arkansas, United States. The park covers an area of 8.68 square miles (22.5 sq km) making it the second-smallest US national park right ahead of Gateway Arch National Park.

Hot Springs Mountain is part of the Ouachita Mountain range which spans from southeastern Oklahoma into western Arkansas. The hot springs flow from the western side of the mountain.

These hot springs have been leveraged for therapeutic baths by the community and travelers from around the world for over 200 years.  There are a series of buildings serving as bathhouses that align with the back of the mountain accessing these springs.

These buildings that house the health-oriented baths have been incorporated inside the boundaries of the national park.  Because parts of the city are included inside the national park, it means that Hot Springs National Park is one of the most accessible parks in the country.

The row of buildings housing hot springs bathhouses is affectionately known as Bathhouse Row, and they are collectively recognized as a National Historic Landmark as well.

The park was expanded beyond the originally protected bathhouse and hot springs area to include Hot Springs Mountain, North Mountain, West Mountain, and Sugarloaf Mountain.  Sugarloaf Mountain has no correlation with the renowned Sugarloaf Mountain at the base of Corcovado.

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Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park

Things to See

The hot springs are the pinnacle attraction of the park and the feature that draws visitors from around the world.

Hot Springs

The hot springs are sourced from the west side of Hot Springs Mountain.  The springs of the mountain deliver over 500,000 gallons of hot water every day.

This fresh naturally steamed hot water is used to supply the bathhouses with their hot water for the therapeutic baths.  These baths have drawn visitors from around the world throughout the years.

The hot springs baths do come with an extra fee separate from any park entrance fee.  This money is used to support the US National Park Service.

Hot Springs Mountain Tower

Hot Springs Mountain Tower is an enclosed observation deck that is located atop of Hot Springs Mountain.  The tower is a steel constructed observation area that reaches a height of 216 feet (65.8 m).

The tower provides visitors with a 360o panoramic view of the mountains, national park, and Hot Springs area.  It is like getting a grounded aerial view of the area.

A Steamy History

A Steamy History

Explore the historic Bathhouse Row, a collection of elegant bathhouses dating back to the early 20th century. Take a leisurely stroll along the row and admire the beautiful architecture of these iconic buildings, which reflect the opulence and grandeur of the era.

Visit the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center to learn about the history of the area and its significance as a spa destination. Some bathhouses still offer traditional spa services, allowing visitors to soak in the therapeutic thermal waters and experience a taste of the past.

Things To Do

Engaging Hot Springs National Park

Bath House

Take advantage of both nature and history and enjoy one of the bath houses.  This is an excellent opportunty to just relax and unwind.

Hiking

Discover the natural beauty of Hot Springs National Park by hiking its network of scenic trails. Choose from easy strolls to challenging treks, with options for all skill levels. Explore winding trails that lead through lush forests, past sparkling streams, and to panoramic overlooks with stunning views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.

Popular hikes include the Sunset Trail, which offers breathtaking vistas at sunset, and the Goat Rock Trail, which leads to a dramatic rock outcrop overlooking the valley below. Hiking in Hot Springs National Park provides opportunities to connect with nature and experience the tranquility of the outdoors.

Spa Treatments

Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation at one of the spa resorts or bathhouses in Hot Springs National Park.

Treat yourself to a luxurious spa treatment, such as a massage, facial, or mineral bath, using the park’s natural thermal waters renowned for their healing properties. Many spas offer a range of services tailored to your needs, allowing you to unwind and de-stress amidst the tranquil surroundings of the park.

Whether you’re seeking pampering and self-care or therapeutic relief from aches and pains, a spa day in Hot Springs National Park offers a blissful retreat for body and mind.

Hiking

Discover the natural beauty of Hot Springs National Park by hiking its network of scenic trails. Choose from easy strolls to challenging treks, with options for all skill levels. Explore winding trails that lead through lush forests, past sparkling streams, and to panoramic overlooks with stunning views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.

Popular hikes include the Sunset Trail, which offers breathtaking vistas at sunset, and the Goat Rock Trail, which leads to a dramatic rock outcrop overlooking the valley below. Hiking in Hot Springs National Park provides opportunities to connect with nature and experience the tranquility of the outdoors.

Spa Treatments

Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation at one of the spa resorts or bathhouses in Hot Springs National Park.

Treat yourself to a luxurious spa treatment, such as a massage, facial, or mineral bath, using the park’s natural thermal waters renowned for their healing properties. Many spas offer a range of services tailored to your needs, allowing you to unwind and de-stress amidst the tranquil surroundings of the park.

Whether you’re seeking pampering and self-care or therapeutic relief from aches and pains, a spa day in Hot Springs National Park offers a blissful retreat for body and mind.

Hot Springs National Park Trails

Hot Springs National Park is renowned for the hot springs in the area, however, there is more nature there to explore which is accessible with several hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult adventures.

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Hot Springs Mountain Trail

This is an easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) loop trail that meanders through the forest and along the hillside of the mountain.  There is an elevation gain of 672 feet (204.8 m).

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Peak Trail

This is an easy 1.3-mile (2.09 km) trail although it ascends 357 feet (108.8 m). The trail makes its way through forests and along with wildflowers toward a lookout over the Hot Springs city area.

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Grand Promenade Trail

This is a 1.2-mile (1.93 km) loop trail that is popular for getting outdoors and walking through the trees and clean air.  The trail is often used by families and runners because of its easy accessibility and its well-developed status.

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Great Rock Trail

This moderate rated trail ascends 380 feet (115.8 m) over 2.4 miles (3.86 km) up to a scenic lookout over the park terrain. Along with the panoramic views, there are chances to see birds, other wildlife, and wildflowers.

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Gulpha Gorge Trail

This short 1.2-mile (1.9 km) trail has an incline gain of 383 feet (116.7 m). The trail is rated moderate; however, it features gorgeous views, chances to see wildlife, and tranquility through the forest.

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Hot Springs Mountain Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.7 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 300 feet (91 meters)

Description: This trail offers a peaceful hike through mixed hardwood forests to the top of Hot Springs Mountain. Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains from the observation tower at the summit. The trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

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Sunset Trail

Rating: Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 10 miles round trip with varying elevation gain

Description: The Sunset Trail is the park’s longest and most diverse trail, traversing through several different ecosystems. Highlights include West Mountain, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Balanced Rock. The trail offers scenic vistas, rocky outcrops, and, in spring, a variety of wildflowers. It’s a rewarding challenge for more experienced hikers.

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Grand Promenade Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.1 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: This paved path offers a leisurely walk behind Bathhouse Row, providing insights into the park’s historic core. The trail is accessible and features educational displays about the area’s thermal springs and historic architecture. It’s a perfect option for families and those looking for a casual stroll.

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Goat Rock Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.6 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 200 feet (61 meters)

Description: Leading to a unique rock formation known as Goat Rock, this trail provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The path meanders through a forested area, offering a serene hiking experience and the opportunity to observe local flora and fauna.

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Gulpha Gorge Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 0.6 miles one way with an elevation gain of about 150 feet (46 meters)

Description: This short but steep trail connects the Gulpha Gorge campground with the Hot Springs Mountain trails. Hikers can enjoy the sounds of Gulpha Creek alongside the trail, making for a picturesque ascent or descent through lush, wooded terrain. It’s a great connector trail for those looking to explore multiple areas of the park.

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Hot Springs Mountain Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.7 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 300 feet (91 meters)

Description: This trail offers a peaceful hike through mixed hardwood forests to the top of Hot Springs Mountain. Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains from the observation tower at the summit. The trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

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Sunset Trail

Rating: Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 10 miles round trip with varying elevation gain

Description: The Sunset Trail is the park’s longest and most diverse trail, traversing through several different ecosystems. Highlights include West Mountain, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Balanced Rock. The trail offers scenic vistas, rocky outcrops, and, in spring, a variety of wildflowers. It’s a rewarding challenge for more experienced hikers.

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Grand Promenade Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.1 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: This paved path offers a leisurely walk behind Bathhouse Row, providing insights into the park’s historic core. The trail is accessible and features educational displays about the area’s thermal springs and historic architecture. It’s a perfect option for families and those looking for a casual stroll.

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Goat Rock Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.6 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 200 feet (61 meters)

Description: Leading to a unique rock formation known as Goat Rock, this trail provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The path meanders through a forested area, offering a serene hiking experience and the opportunity to observe local flora and fauna.

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Gulpha Gorge Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 0.6 miles one way with an elevation gain of about 150 feet (46 meters)

Description: This short but steep trail connects the Gulpha Gorge campground with the Hot Springs Mountain trails. Hikers can enjoy the sounds of Gulpha Creek alongside the trail, making for a picturesque ascent or descent through lush, wooded terrain. It’s a great connector trail for those looking to explore multiple areas of the park.

FAQ’s

What is Hot Springs National Park known for?

Hot Springs National Park, located in Arkansas, is known for its natural thermal springs, historic bathhouses, and scenic beauty. The park’s primary attraction is the hot springs themselves, which emerge from the base of Hot Springs Mountain at a temperature of 143°F (62°C).

These thermal waters have long been revered for their supposed healing properties and have attracted visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation for centuries. The park is also known for its historic Bathhouse Row, a collection of elegant bathhouses built in the early 20th century, which reflect the opulence and grandeur of the era.

Additionally, Hot Springs National Park offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, picnicking, and scenic drives, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and soak in its natural beauty.

What is Hot Springs National Park known for?

Hot Springs National Park, located in Arkansas, is known for its natural thermal springs, historic bathhouses, and scenic beauty. The park’s primary attraction is the hot springs themselves, which emerge from the base of Hot Springs Mountain at a temperature of 143°F (62°C).

These thermal waters have long been revered for their supposed healing properties and have attracted visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation for centuries. The park is also known for its historic Bathhouse Row, a collection of elegant bathhouses built in the early 20th century, which reflect the opulence and grandeur of the era.

Additionally, Hot Springs National Park offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, picnicking, and scenic drives, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and soak in its natural beauty.

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