Outdoor Things to Do Along the Arkansas River

Exploring On Two Wheels

One of the easiest ways to experience the Arkansas River is from the saddle. The Arkansas River Trail runs along both sides of the water, linking Little Rock and North Little Rock with wide paths shared by cyclists and pedestrians. Along the way, views shift between the river, the skyline, and pockets of green space.

For those looking to go a little farther, the trail connects directly to the Big Dam Bridge, where elevated views open up across the river near Murray Lock and Dam. The route also passes through parks and neighborhoods, including the River Market District, making it easy to stop for food, coffee, or a break before heading back out. With a mostly flat, well-marked path, the trail works well for cyclists of all experience levels.

Cooling Off on the Water

Getting out on the water offers a different way to experience the Arkansas River. From calm stretches to wide-open views, time on the river brings you closer to the city while setting a slower pace.

Rock Town River Outfitters offers several ways to explore the river, from kayak and standup paddleboard rentals to guided experiences. Guests can head out on their own or join a guided kayak tour, including sunset outings that provide a quieter look at the river as the city winds down.

For group outings, Rock Town River Outfitters also offers guided pontoon boat tours on the Arkansas River. The 24-foot party barge launches from Rock City Yacht Club in downtown Little Rock and can be booked for celebrations, group gatherings, or a relaxed evening on the water.

Connecting Little Rock & North Little Rock

Little Rock and North Little Rock are connected by a series of bridges that span the Arkansas River, several of which welcome cyclists and pedestrians. These crossings make it easy to move between the two cities while taking in wide river views along the way.

The Clinton Presidential Park Bridge and Junction Bridge connect the River Market District with North Little Rock and are especially popular before and after events at Simmons Bank Arena. In downtown Little Rock, the Broadway Bridge offers another walkable and bike-friendly option for crossing the river.

Farther west, the Big Dam Bridge stretches across the Arkansas River near Murray Lock and Dam and remains the largest pedestrian- and bicycle-intended bridge in the United States. Crossing it offers uninterrupted views of the river, the dam below, and the surrounding landscape, making it a favorite stretch for both cyclists and walkers on the Arkansas River Trail. The bridge has become a landmark in its own right and a defining feature of outdoor life along the river.

The nearby Floyd G. "Buddy" Villines Bridge links Two Rivers Park with the larger trail system, making it a key connector for longer routes. While following the trail, walkers and cyclists also pass beneath the Baring Cross Railroad Bridge, an active rail bridge that stands as one of the most striking structures along the river.

Reaching New Heights

If you’d rather explore on foot, Little Rock’s outdoor adventures offer plenty of ways to get outside. From paved paths to rugged climbs, hiking along the Arkansas River gives you access to scenic overlooks, quiet stretches of nature, and some of the city’s most iconic views.

Just west of downtown, Pinnacle Mountain State Park features several well-marked trails that range from moderate to challenging, including routes to the summit with sweeping views of the river valley below. Closer to the water, trails at Two Rivers Park offer flatter terrain and wide-open views where the Arkansas River meets the Little Maumelle, making it an easy option for a more relaxed walk.

Sections of the Arkansas River Trail also double as pedestrian-friendly routes, allowing hikers to move between parks, bridges, and riverfront spaces at their own pace. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a longer outing, hiking along the river keeps you connected to the landscape that shapes the city.