Hot Springs National Park | Hot Springs, Arkansas
Photo courtesy of James St. John
Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park offers a unique blend of natural wonders, historic charm, and Southern hospitality. Established in 1921, it's the oldest protected area in the National Park Service and a far cry from the usual national park experience. At its core lies a collection of 47 geothermal hot springs cascading down the slopes of Hot Springs Mountain, creating a town and National Park unlike any other.
What Makes Hot Springs National Park Special
Urban National Park: Hot Springs is interwoven with the vibrant town of the same name, creating a blend of bustling streets, historic buildings, and natural beauty.
The Thermal Waters: For centuries, people have been drawn to the healing properties of the mineral-rich thermal waters.
Bathhouse Row: This National Historic Landmark District boasts a collection of early 20th-century bathhouses, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of luxurious spa treatments.
The Grand Promenade: This scenic brick walkway provides a relaxing space to stroll and admire the surrounding architecture and nature.
Activities Beyond Soaking: Hot Springs National Park offers hiking, scenic overlooks, outdoor recreation, and a lively downtown with shops and restaurants.
History of the Hot Springs
Long before it became a national park, the thermal waters of Hot Springs attracted visitors seeking their restorative properties. Native American tribes revered the springs, and in the 1800s, Hot Springs transformed into a bustling spa town. President Andrew Jackson declared the area a protected reservation in 1832, and in 1921, it gained National Park status.
Hot Springs National Park: What to Expect
Bathhouse Row
Immerse in History: Explore the grand bathhouses, such as the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center and Museum, the Buckstaff Bathhouse, and the Quapaw Bathhouse.
Traditional Spa Experience: Two bathhouses, the Buckstaff and the Quapaw, offer traditional thermal baths and spa treatments.
Self-Guided Tour: Stroll along Bathhouse Row, admiring the architecture and learning about the area's history.
The Thermal Water
Feel the Warmth: Place your hand in the flowing thermal water at fountains and display springs throughout the park.
Fill up Your Bottle: Designated water fountains allow you to fill your own containers and experience the taste of the mineral water.
Historic Jug Fountains: Look out for historic jug fountains on the hillside, a nod to the past when visitors would collect their daily water ration.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking & Scenic Views: Explore scenic park trails, including Hot Springs Mountain and North Mountain, offering beautiful vistas.
Camping: Campgrounds within the park provide the chance to experience nature overnight.
Hot Springs Mountain Tower: Take the elevator to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city and Ouachita Mountains.
Exploring the City of Hot Springs
Art & Culture: Visit art galleries, museums, and enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene.
Gangster History: Learn about the area's colorful gangster past through historical locations like the Gangster Museum of America.
Unique Attractions: Experience the fun at Garvan Woodland Gardens, explore Mid-America Science Museum, or see the world's largest collection of alligator purses at The Purse Museum.
Hot Springs Mountain Trails
Hot Springs Mountain Trail: This 1.7-mile loop is the most popular hike in the park. It offers scenic views along the way and takes you to the top of Hot Springs Mountain Tower for panoramic vistas. (Moderate difficulty)
Peak Trail: At 1.2 miles out and back, Peak Trail delivers you to the highest point on Hot Springs Mountain. Enjoy beautiful views and a workout on this challenging trail. (Difficult)
Goat Rock Trail: This 1.9-mile loop trail features rock formations, diverse forests, and scenic overlooks. It offers a good challenge and links up with other trails as well. (Moderate)
Gulpha Gorge Trail: A short but steep 1-mile out-and-back descent, this trail leads to Gulpha Gorge campground and connects to other trails in the area. (Difficult)
Oertel Trail: This moderate 4.5-mile loop offers a chance for solitude and beautiful forest scenery. It connects to several other trails, providing options to extend your hike.
Honeysuckle Trail: This short connector trail links the Peak Trail with the Hot Springs Mountain Trail, providing alternative routes and more options. (Easy)
North Mountain Trails
North Mountain Loop Trail: Enjoy views atop North Mountain on this relatively easy loop, approximately 1 mile long. It connects to several other trails.
Tufa Terrace Trail: A short and easy paved walkway, this trail takes you past interesting geothermal tufa formations.
West Mountain Trails
West Mountain Trail: This popular 1.3-mile loop offers a steady uphill climb with rewarding views of the Ouachita Mountains. (Moderate)
Planning Your Trip
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather. Summer can be very hot and humid, but is a good time to enjoy outdoor recreation.
Reservations: If you wish to experience the traditional baths, making reservations for bathhouses in advance is highly recommended.
What to Pack: Be prepared for changing weather with comfortable clothing layers. Don't forget your swimsuit for bathing, hiking shoes, a refillable water bottle, and sunscreen.
Getting Around: Downtown is walkable, and a car helps access hiking trailheads and other attractions outside the city center.
Accessibility: Many of the historic bathhouses and park trails have features to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
Is Hot Springs National Park for You?
Hot Springs National Park provides a unique experience blending wellness, history, and stunning natural beauty. If you enjoy historic towns, the allure of thermal waters, and are open to exploring something a little different, then Hot Springs is definitely worth adding to your travel list.
