Near Chaplin Nature Center
Running up the trail
Near Chaplin Nature Center
Beautiful moss growing on a fallen log
Near Chaplin Nature Center
Enormous cottonwoods that eventually fall from their own weight.
Near Chaplin Nature Center
Lots of exposed rocks and roots on the descent to the river trail
Near Chaplin Nature Center
Sand and mud deposits along this section offer lots of critter footprints to check out!

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Chaplin Nature Center

4.0 (1 Rating)
Enjoy pleasant woodlands, sandy riverbank, and rolling terrain all in one place.
2.7
mi
Distance
162
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
Views

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.73mi
Distance
162ft
Elevation Gain
159ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
1,165ft
High Point
1,074ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
Starting at the parking area near the Visitor Center, begin on the Prairie Trail as it makes its way around the moved grass area to the south. Near the end of the trail, take a left at the first trail junction onto the Lost Prairie Trail. The Lost Prairie Trail winds its way through pleasant hardwood forest to a junction with the Spring Creek Trail. Make a left here, looping around to a junction with the Old Maintenance Road and River Trail. Continue on the River Trail, meandering through rooted, dense forest until you eventually pop out near the Arkansas River. This is a great spot to stop and enjoy the riverbank, taking in the views while snacking on your lunch and grabbing some water.When you're ready to continue on, head south on the trail as it loops back through the forest to a junction with the Bluff Trail. Make a left on the Bluff Trail and soon you'll arrive back at a service road right near the parking lot from which you started.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Hunter R