Arkansas River Trail Hike

Scenic, short, and suitable for the whole family, the Arkansas River Trail is a must-do hike if you are visiting the quaint river town of Buena Vista. The tame walk along the wild river begins at the Buena Vista River Park at the far east end of Main Street, follows the western banks of the river for .75 miles, where a turnaround at Ramsour Road near the southern part of town leads hikers back north. There are picnic tables and benches along the way for visitors to stop and take in the views of flora, fauna, and the mountains that surround the Arkansas River Valley. The upper Arkansas River is the most commercialized boating river in the nation and Buena Vista is renowned for its whitewater park, so take the time to stop and watch kayakers perform freestyle tricks in the large rapids. The river is also an angler's paradise and features some of the best fly fishing in the state. The Arkansas River Trail is also a launching pad for longer nearby trails such as the Whitewater Trail, the Ripple Rock Trail and the Barbara Whipple Trail. The trail is open year round, weather permitting.