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The Arkansas River Trail isn’t merely a hiking or biking destination; it’s an integral part of life in Little Rock and North Little Rock. Locals use the trail to commute to work, train for running and cycling events, push strollers, take evening walks or simply enjoy time in nature. While many residents come to think of the trail as part of the everyday landscape, visitors are often surprised by just how extensive and scenic it is.
Whether you’re discovering the trail for the first time or returning to a favorite stretch, there’s always something new to notice. This guide highlights some of the trail’s most scenic spots, notable landmarks, and helpful tips to make the most of your visit.
Photo courtesy of the City of Little Rock.
What is the Arkansas River Trail?
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, plans began to unfold to create a continuous greenway that would connect parks, neighborhoods and attractions on both sides of the river. The goal was to increase tourism and riverfront development, and to encourage a healthy lifestyle among those who use the trail.
The paved, multi-use trail system came to fruition through the combined efforts of the cities of Little Rock and North Little Rock, Pulaski County, the Arkansas Department of Transportation, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Metroplan and a host of non-profit organizations. Construction began when Little Rock voters approved a $1.9 million bond issue in 2003 to help fund the new trail.
The Arkansas River
The Arkansas River is the sixth longest river in the United States, stretching more than 1,400 miles from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to the Mississippi River in Arkansas. Along the way, it has shaped the state’s history, supported commerce and recreation, and continues to serve as a defining feature of Central Arkansas.
The Arkansas River is the heart of the Arkansas River Trail, providing scenic views around nearly every bend. If you’d like to learn more about the river’s history, wildlife, and the important role it has played in shaping the Natural State, be sure to read our article, Exploring the Arkansas River.
The Four Signature Bridges
The Arkansas River Trail wouldn’t be the same without its bridges. More than just a way to cross the river, each one offers its own views, history, and personality, making them destinations in their own right.
The Big Dam Bridge
When the Big Dam Bridge opened on September 30, 2006, it instantly became the trail’s signature landmark. When you view it in person, you understand just how impressive it is. The bridge spans 4,226 feet and rises 90 feet above the Murray Lock and Dam. It was designed specifically for cycling and walking and is recognized as North America’s longest pedestrian bridge. The Big Dam Bridge 100, held each September, is Arkansas’s largest cycling tour and attracts 3,000 to 3,500 cyclists annually.
The Junction Bridge
Originally built in 1883 and rebuilt in 1970, the Junction Bridge was converted to a pedestrian bridge in 2008. The bridge connects the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum and North Little Rock’s riverfront to Little Rock’s Riverfront Park and Sculpture Garden.
The Clinton Presidential Park Bridge
Historically known as the Rock Island Bridge, the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge closed the south end of the 15.6-mile Arkansas River Trail Loop. The former railroad bridge was fitted with a pedestrian deck and opened to the public in 2011 adjacent to the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum.
Photo by Brad Sims via Flickr. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.
The Two Rivers Park Bridge
While not as visually stunning as the Big Dam Bridge, the Two Rivers Bridge area is considered one of the prettiest stretches of the Arkansas River Trail. The bridge was built in 2011 to create a safe and scenic connection between the river trail and the Pinnacle Mountain area where the Little Maumelle River connects with the Arkansas River.
How to Explore the Arkansas River Trail
The beauty of the river trail is that it draws all different kinds of people. You’ll find visitors exploring central Arkansas for the first time, cyclists and runners training for their next event, families getting some fresh air and nature enthusiasts hoping to spot birds and wildlife.
The trail is designed to be started at multiple points and is absolutely beginner friendly. You don’t have to walk the entire trail and many pick a starting point, walk for a mile or two and then turn around and head back. People are often surprised at how flat most of the trail is. The Big Dam Bridge offers a significant yet gradual climb but is suitable even for those pushing a stroller.
If You’re a Beginner
Murray Park is a great place to start if you are new to the Arkansas River Trail. The park offers ample parking, restrooms and has two playgrounds and a nice fishing spot. It’s a nice walk from the park to the Big Dam Bridge and back. If you want to go a little further, you can add in the Two Rivers Park spur.
For Cyclists
If you’re planning to ride the full 15.6-mile loop, Murray Park is also one of the best places to begin. From here, you’ll cross the Big Dam Bridge before continuing through Burns Park, downtown North Little Rock, and Little Rock, returning across the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge. The route is mostly flat and paved, making it suitable for recreational riders as well as those looking to log some serious miles.
For Runners
Runners have plenty of options depending on how far they want to go. The downtown section is perfect for shorter runs with river views and skyline scenery, while Murray Park offers an easy out-and-back route to the Big Dam Bridge. If you’re training for longer distances, you can connect multiple sections of the trail without worrying about steep hills or heavy traffic.
For Nature Lovers
For those who enjoy a quieter experience, head to Two Rivers Park. This section of the trail feels much more removed from the city, with wetlands, wooded areas, and open views of the river. Keep an eye out for great blue herons, egrets, turtles, deer, and other wildlife, especially during the early morning hours.
Visiting with Kids
Families with young children will appreciate the many parks located along the trail. Murray Park and Burns Park both offer playgrounds, restrooms, picnic areas, and plenty of space to take breaks between walking or biking. Kids also love crossing the Big Dam Bridge, where they can watch boats pass through the lock and enjoy the wide-open views of the river.
For Sightseers
If your goal is to take in the sights rather than cover miles, start at Riverfront Park in downtown Little Rock. From there, you can stroll across the Junction Bridge or Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, admire public art, enjoy views of the downtown skyline, and easily walk to the River Market for a meal or a treat. It’s a great way to experience both the trail and some of Central Arkansas’s most popular attractions in a single outing.
Museums & Historic Sites
- William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum
- Museum of Discovery
- Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum (home of the USS Razorback submarine)
- Old State House Museum (a short walk from the trail)
- Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center
- Little Rock’s H.U. Lee Gate
Parks & Outdoor Spaces
- Julius Breckling Riverfront Park
- Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden
- La Petite Roche Plaza
- Emerald Park (short drive from the trail with spectacular overlooks)
Shopping & Dining
- River Market District and Pavilions
- Argenta Arts District
A Tip from the Locals
The Big Dam Bridge spans nearly a mile and has an elevation change of about 65 feet. The climb is gradual but can be a bit of work, especially if it’s your first time. Locals suggest that if you plan to make the entire Arkansas River Trail loop, you begin with the Big Dam Bridge so you can conquer it while your legs are still fresh.
Whether you spend an hour strolling across the Big Dam Bridge or set out to bike the entire loop, the Arkansas River Trail offers a unique way to experience the heart of Central Arkansas. Every visit is a little different, and that’s part of its appeal. So lace up your walking shoes or hop on your bike, and discover why this beloved trail has become a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.
Cover photo courtesy of the City of Little Rock. All other photos courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism unless otherwise noted.
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