Hot Springs National Park

Pullman Trail

moderate CyclistsFamiliesDog Owners
0 mi Distance
45 min Estimated Time
Out & Back Trail Type

What to Expect

Pullman Trail is Hot Springs National Park's oddball — the only path in the entire park where you can bring a bike. Starting from the lower trailhead, you'll climb a surprisingly punchy grade through mixed hardwood forest, gaining about 130 feet over less than a mile. The trail surface is well-maintained enough for wheelchair access on portions, but that average grade of nearly 25% means some sections will have your calves filing a formal complaint. Along the way, you'll pass an archaeological site from the park's resort-town past — easy to miss if you're not paying attention. The real draw is the connection to the city's Northwoods Trails network, which opens up miles of additional riding and hiking. This one's perfect for cyclists looking for a legitimate national park trail, families wanting a short adventure with some historical flavor, or anyone using it as a launching pad into the broader trail system.
CyclistsFamiliesDog OwnersTrail ConnectorsHistory Buffs

Safety Advisory

That 24% average grade is steeper than it sounds — if you're on a bike, use low gears on the ascent and control your speed on the descent, especially around blind curves where hikers may be present.

This is a shared-use trail with cyclists, hikers, and leashed dogs all in the mix. Keep your head on a swivel and announce yourself when passing, particularly on the narrower uphill sections.

Trail Details

Difficulty moderate
Estimated Time 45 min
Trail Type Out & Back
Pets Dogs allowed (leash required)
Season Year-round
Trailhead Pullman Trail

Pro Tips

Trail Tip

Use this trail as your gateway to the Northwoods Trails system — ride or hike the Pullman in, then explore the city trails beyond the park boundary for a much longer outing.

Trail Tip

The archaeological site is marked but understated. Slow down about halfway through and look for the interpretive signage on your left — most people blow right past it on bikes.

Trail Tip

If you're cycling, start from the lower elevation end to get the climb out of the way first. The descent back is a satisfying reward and far more fun than grinding uphill at the finish.

Photos

Three trail head signs line the front of a trailhead that leads into the forest.NPS Photo/Tom Hill

Getting There

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Explore Hot Springs National Park

1 campgrounds, 26 trails, 2.5M annual visitors

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