OTG's Top 5 Most Difficult Trails in NWA

For those seeking a challenge, NWA offers some of the most demanding and rewarding hiking trails. These trails are not for the faint of heart, but the stunning views and sense of accomplishment make them well worth the effort. Here are OTG's Top 5 MOST difficult trails in NWA!

1. Mount Kessler Greenways

• Distance: 8 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Hard

• Review: Mount Kessler Greenways is a challenging trail that offers a variety of terrains, including rocky sections, steep climbs, and beautiful forested areas. The trail system includes several loops, allowing you to customize your hike based on your fitness level and time constraints. The views from the top are spectacular, making the effort well worth it. This trail is popular with both hikers and mountain bikers, so be prepared to share the path.

  
  

2. Butterfield Hiking Trail

• Distance: 15 mile loop

• Difficulty: Hard

• Review: The Butterfield Hiking Trail in Devil's Den State Park is a strenuous 15-mile loop that takes you through rugged terrain, including steep climbs and descents. The trail offers stunning views of the Ozark National Forest and passes by several creeks and waterfalls. This hike is best suited for experienced hikers who are prepared for a full day of challenging hiking. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as a map and compass.

  
  

3. Ozark Highlands Trail - Hare Mountain to Cherry Bend

• Distance: 9.5 miles one way

• Difficulty: Hard

• Review: This section of the Ozark Highlands Trail is known for its challenging terrain and beautiful scenery. The trail includes steep climbs, rocky sections, and dense forests. The highlight of this hike is the view from Hare Mountain, the highest point on the Ozark Highlands Trail. This hike is best suited for experienced hikers who are prepared for a long and strenuous day on the trail.

  
  

4. Rim Trail - Mount Magazine State Park

• Distance: 10 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Hard

• Review: The Rim Trail in Mount Magazine State Park offers a challenging hike with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The trail follows the rim of the mountain and includes several steep climbs and descents. The terrain is rocky and uneven, making this hike best suited for experienced hikers. The views from the top are well worth the effort, especially during the fall when the leaves change color.

  
  

5. Hemmed-In Hollow Trail

• Distance: 5 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Hard

• Review: Hemmed-In Hollow Trail is known for its challenging terrain and stunning waterfall, the tallest between the Rockies and the Appalachians. The trail includes steep climbs and descents, rocky sections, and dense forests. The hike to the waterfall is strenuous, but the sight of the 209-foot waterfall is a rewarding payoff. This trail is best suited for experienced hikers who are prepared for a tough but rewarding hike.

Gear up, prepare for a challenge, and hit the trails to conquer the best that Northwest Arkansas has to offer!