The Ozark National Forest is a lush wonderland in Arkansas that covers 16 counties. With so many incredible things to see and do at this expansive park, you might not know where to begin. Well, one of the best ways parkgoers can explore this forested area and check those must-see spots off their bucket list is on a hike. Of course, if you’re short on time, hiking the 1.2 million acres over a three-day weekend or an even longer getaway might be a tad unrealistic. So to help, here are ten beautiful hikes to take in Ozark National Forest that you can easily complete during your visit.

Related: 10 Beautiful Towns You Would Never Expect to See in Arkansas

10 High Bank Twin Falls Trail

One of the easier treks to make in the Ozark National Forest is the High Bank Twin Falls Trail. Here, hikers can appreciate all the surrounding beauty, stunning foliage, and the renowned breathtaking double waterfall. There are also more than a few recreational activities hikers can get into along this route, including some first-rate fishing. An added bonus here is dogs are allowed and can even be off-leash in certain trail spots.

  • Difficulty Level: This is a relatively easy 0.4-mile trail.
  • Duration: Most hikers can complete this route in 15 minutes or less.

9 Whitaker Point Trail

Not too far away from Pettigrew, Arkansas, explorers will find a lengthier route in the Ozark Forest that is quite lovely—Whitaker Point Trail. This footpath is regarded as somewhat challenging, but it is definitely worth it for the phenomenal views alone. Open all year round and adorned with majestic scenery, this hiking trail is simply a must when exploring the park.

  • Difficulty Level: Whitaker Point is a moderate 2.9-mile trek.
  • Duration: This popular route usually takes hikers a little over an hour to complete.

8 Pedestal Rocks Loop Trail

The Pedestal Rocks Loop Trail is a scenic footpath with must-see-to-believe rock formations and arches. This is another fan favorite for parkgoers, so you can expect to see your fair share of fellow hikers along this route. But that’s not all; Hikers can also explore a variety of impressive-looking caves and even opt to choose their own amazing adventure off-trail.

  • Difficulty Level: This 2.4-mile jaunt is a moderate hike; prior hiking experience is recommended.
  • Duration: Typically, most trailblazers can complete this route in roughly an hour or so.

Related: The Ten Hiking Essentials That Every Adventurer Should Always Have In Their Pack

7 Spy Rock Overlook Trail

Another easy trek in the Ozark National Forest is Spy Rock Overlook Trail. Known for its abundance of wildlife, this is a beautiful and rather short hike with an overlook to remember. From this wondrous overlook, it is here that hikers can take in gorgeous views of the Mulberry River and its surrounding area, plus see a few wonderful sections of Morgan Mountain.

  • Difficulty Level: Spy Rock is generally considered to be an easy 0.7-mile excursion.
  • Duration: This multi-use trail takes most explorers an average of 17 minutes.

6 Devil’s Canyon Scenic Area Trail

One of the more popular trails in this magnificent nature park is the Devil’s Canyon Scenic Area Trail. Here visitors can expect to see several flowing waterfalls, caverns, streams, and much more. This scenic footpath is a favorite for backpackers, adventurers, nature lovers, and wildlife peepers alike. Open all year round, the Devil’s Canyon is an incredibly beautiful route, no matter the season.

  • Difficulty Level: This 4.6-mile footpath is a moderate hike.
  • Duration: Most hikers can complete this lovely trail in one to two hours.

5 Glory Hole Falls Trail

Waterfall chasers should also make it a point to check out the Glory Hole Falls Trail. It’s just a short jaunt to the actual waterfall, and from there, you can enjoy the marvelous views from atop the falls. For a different but equally fascinating perspective, hikers can carefully make their way down the nearby path. This particular waterfall is a sight to behold no matter your chosen vantage point and is open year-round.

  • Difficulty Level: This 1.8-mile trail is rated as moderate.
  • Duration: Typically, hikers and general visitors can finish this route in under an hour.

4 Kings River Falls Trail

Hikers searching for a slightly longer route that’s downright majestic needn’t look any further than Kings River Falls Trail. Not only does this footpath run alongside the Kings River, but it also provides hikers with insanely gorgeous views of this river’s cascading waterfalls. Besides being the perfect spot to enjoy beautiful scenery, visitors can also go for a refreshing swim in these waters if the weather permits.

  • Difficulty Level: This 4.6-mile loop is an easy and mainly flat hike.
  • Duration: If you don’t stop for a swim, you can complete this trail in as little as two hours.

3 Sixty Foot Trail

One of the more challenging and lengthier trails worth hiking is Sixty Foot Trail. Known for its fantastic scenery, this trail has an abundance of wildlife, lovely views of the river, waterfalls, grassy knolls, and so much more. However, it is worth noting that the terrain along this route can be a little rocky, and the trail is steep in certain areas, so newer hikers should keep that in mind.

  • Difficulty Level: This 6.6-mile route is considered moderate to challenging.
  • Duration: Sixty Foot takes roughly three hours to complete.

2 Long Pool Falls Trail

Located near Dover, Arkansas, Long Pool Falls Trail is a straightforward route that just happens to be regarded as one of the prettiest spots in the park. This lovely little section of the park is beautiful all year round, but the real attraction here is none other than the Long Pool Falls. Here park goers can marvel at this 44-foot tall waterfall that gracefully cascades over a bluff—especially after a good rainfall.

  • Difficulty Level: This is an easy 1-mile trek that’s fun for the whole family.
  • Duration: Hikers and parkgoers can complete Long Pool in 25 minutes.

1 Lake Wedington Hiking Trail

Lastly, Lake Wedington Hiking Trail is one more gorgeous footpath to embark on if you happen to be in the area. This family and dog-friendly hiking route is also ideal for mountain biking, nearby picnicking, and birdwatching. Here hikers can enjoy the lush landscape, spend some time at Lake Wedington, and check out yet another incredible waterfall in this forest park.

  • Difficulty Level: This nice 3.3-mile loop is considered to be an easy route.
  • Duration: Lake Wedington can be completed in one hour and five minutes.