Hot Springs National Park
Whittington Trail
FamiliesDog WalkersJoggers
0 mi Distance
45 min Estimated Time
Out & Back Trail Type
What to Expect
Whittington Trail is about as easygoing as national park hiking gets — a flat gravel loop circling Whittington Park that feels more like a neighborhood greenway than a wilderness trek. The surface is smooth and well-maintained, perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, and anyone who wants fresh air without breaking a sweat. You'll wind through a mix of open lawn and mature hardwoods, with almost no elevation change to speak of — the whole route barely gains the height of a two-story building. Joggers love it for the predictable footing, and dog walkers treat it like a daily ritual. Don't come here expecting dramatic overlooks or backcountry solitude. This is the trail for people who want a pleasant loop through one of Hot Springs' prettiest green spaces, maybe followed by a soak in the historic bathhouses just up the road. Perfect for rest days, recovery walks, or anyone traveling with small kids who need to burn off energy on flat ground.
Trail Details
Estimated Time 45 min
Trail Type Out & Back
Pets Dogs allowed (leash required)
Season Year-round
Trailhead Whittington Trail
Pro Tips
Trail Tip
Pair this with a visit to the Bathhouse Row promenade — knock out the Whittington loop first, then walk north along the Grand Promenade for a full morning of easy trails through the park's historic core.
Trail Tip
Early morning joggers will find the gravel well-packed and the loop nearly empty before 8 AM, especially on weekdays. The shade from surrounding trees keeps things comfortable even in Arkansas summers.
Trail Tip
Bring your dog — this is one of the most pet-friendly loops in the national park system. There's a water fountain near the park entrance, so top off a collapsible bowl before you start.
Photos
NPS Photo/Mitch Smith
