Indeed many new to the Little Rock area or just passing through have said that Pinnacle Mountain looks like a volcano, but alas, it is not and is a great place for a day trip within minutes of anyplace in central Arkansas.
Pinnacle Mountain rises more than a thousand feet above the Arkansas River Valley. The mountain's cone-shaped peak has long been a central Arkansas landmark. Two of the park's hiking trails lead hikers to the mountain's summit.
There are numerous trails for hikers and walkers at the park. Some of the trails are short and paved and therefore easily accessible to those in wheelchairs. Other trails, especially the East Summit trail up the side of Pinnacle Mountain — also called the hard side by many — take a bit more effort and determination.
There is something for everyone at the park. Besides the many trails with beautiful views, there are picnic tables, a playground, an open field that’s great for tossing a football or flying a kite, two standard pavilions with restrooms, boat launch ramps, and a park visitor center overlooking the Arkansas River which includes exhibits, A/V programs, a meeting room, and gift shop.
Within the park is the Arkansas Arboretum, a 71-acre site exhibiting native flora representing Arkansas's six, major natural divisions. Below Pinnacle Mountain along the Little Maumelle River, the arboretum includes a 0.6-mile barrier-free, interpretive trail.
Special interpretive programs that are conducted by the park interpreters may be scheduled by contacting the park. The park is heavily used for education programs in schools, especially in the spring.
To reach Pinnacle Mountain State Park, take Exit #9 off I-430 at Little Rock and travel seven miles west on Ark. 10, then go two miles north on Ark. 300.
Visit the park Web site.
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