Pinnacle Mountain State Park

Explore one of Arkansas’ most visited state parks located minutes from Little Rock.

Know Before You Go
Quick Park Facts
Outdoor Activities
Directions
FAQ

With more than 2,300 acres of forest, lowlands, rivers, and ridgelines, Pinnacle Mountain State Park delivers big views, fresh air, and memorable outdoor experiences. Whether you're hiking to the summit, kayaking the Big and Little Maumelle Rivers, or picnicking beneath the trees, the park is an easy and enjoyable escape into nature.

This day-use park features more than 33 miles of trails, including 19 miles for mountain biking, plus a scenic visitor center, river access, and picnic pavilions perfect for groups and gatherings. Educational programs and accessible trails make it easy for everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of central Arkansas.

Know Before You Go

  • Location: 11901 Pinnacle Valley Rd.
  • Hours: Open daily, 6:30 a.m. to one hour after sunset.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Restrooms: There are restrooms at the visitor center, West Summit Picnic Area, and Big Maumelle Pavilion.
  • Dogs: Pets must be on leash at all times.
  • What to Pack: Water, snacks, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera.
  • Leave No Trace: Leave the park better than you found it by staying on trails, not disturbing wildlife or plant life, and picking up litter when you see it.
A person sitting down on the top of Pinnacle Mountain overlooking the vibrant landscape in Little Rock, AR.

Quick Park Facts

  • Founded: 1973.
  • Pinnacle Mountain Summit Elevation: 1,011 ft above sea level.
  • Park Size: 2,351 acres of diverse habitats including wetlands and upland ridges.
  • Trail System: Over 33 miles of trails, including part of the 222-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail.
  • Cultural Significance: Designated a Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, this area witnessed the forced relocation of Cherokee, Choctaw, Creek, Seminole, and Chickasaw peoples.
The view is Pinnacle Mountain State Park taken from a cliff overlooking colorful fall trees and a full moon at dawn

Outdoor Activities

Fishing

Pinnacle Mountain State Park has great fishing opportunities on both the Little Maumelle River and the park’s stocked pond. Anglers can expect to catch catfish, crappie, bream, and bass. Fishing is limited to rod or pole only, and the daily catfish limit is three.

The Little Maumelle River Water Trail is home to largemouth and spotted bass, along with crappie and bream. Light line, jigs, spinners, and minnows are commonly used here. For catfish, head to Pinnacle Mountain Pond and try fishing with worms, minnows, or stink bait.

A dad holing his child on his shoulders on top of the Pinnacle Mountain while wind breezes through their hair.

Hiking Trails

Pinnacle Mountain features more than 33 miles of trails, including dedicated paths for hiking, mountain biking, and interpretive walks. The two most popular routes, West Summit Trail and East Summit Trail, lead to the top of Pinnacle Mountain, where hikers are rewarded with views of Lake Maumelle, the Arkansas River Valley, and the Ouachita Mountains.

For an accessible experience, the Arkansas Trail provides a paved loop through the Arkansas Arboretum, complete with benches and interpretive audio signs. Other easy trails explore forested floodplains and upland woods. More advanced routes take hikers up rocky hillsides and through boulder fields. The park also includes a section of the Ouachita National Hiking Trail, a 222-mile route that begins at the visitor center and continues west into Oklahoma.

Download Map of Pinnacle Mountain Hiking Trails

A group people doing yoga on kayaks in the Arkansas River at sunrise with the Pinnacle mountain in the background.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Paddle the scenic waters of the Big and Little Maumelle Rivers. Visitors with their own boats can launch from the park’s designated boat ramps. Don’t have your own gear? Rent a kayak or paddleboard at one of the two self-serve rental kiosks, located near the Big Maumelle Pavilion and West Summit Trail access points.

A person mountain biking on a Pinnacle Mountain trail with some boulders and surrounded by trees.

Mountain Biking

Challenge yourself on more than 19 miles of mixed-terrain trails that make Pinnacle Mountain a favorite for mountain bikers. Beginners can test their skills on bike-only trails with alternate rock features and berms, while experienced riders will find fast descents, big views, jumps, and technical rock sections. Several trails are shared-use and open to both bikers and hikers.

Download Map of Pinnacle Mountain Monument Trails

two people hiking down a rocky Pinnacle Mountain during Winter with the horizon full of hills and trees.

Rock Climbing

Put your climbing skills to the test on natural sandstone routes. The southeast face of Pinnacle Mountain features broken blocks of Ouachita sandstone, with climbing areas organized by level along the East Summit Trail (IA, IB, II, III, and IV). Due to loose rock, climbers should wear a helmet and check in at the visitor center before attempting any technical climbs.

Pinnacle Mountain visitor center which is a modern rock and wooden building with the words "protect", "enjoy", and "explore" in the front garden.

Visitor Center

Overlooking the Arkansas River, the Pinnacle Mountain State Park visitor center brings the natural and cultural history of the region to life. Guests can explore exhibits, native plant gardens, and an education pond. Programs on geology, botany, archeology, wildlife, and more are held often. Check the events calendar for upcoming programs.

The center is also home to the Arkansas Arboretum showcasing native trees and shrubs. During your visit hike the 0.6-mile trail through the arboretum and pause at one of the benches to admire the wildlife. After your hike, grab a cone at Loblolly Outpost, offering handcrafted ice cream and sweet treats.

Directions to Pinnacle Mountain State Park

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pinnacle Mountain free?

Yes, entry to Pinnacle Mountain State Park is free. Rentals and pavilion reservations are available for a fee.

Is Pinnacle Mountain State Park wheelchair accessible?

Yes, some of the trails at Pinnacle Mountain are wheelchair accessible. All-terrain Trackchairs are available to help visitors explore more of the park. The accessible Lichen Link Trail connects the visitor center to the Little Maumelle boat ramp and forms a loop when paired with the wide-paved sidewalk.

What trail takes you to the top of Pinnacle Mountain?

Both the East Summit Trail and West Summit Trail take you to the top of Pinnacle Mountain.

Does Pinnacle Mountain State Park allow camping?

No, camping is not allowed within the park. However, the nearby Maumelle Park offers 129 campsites with water and electric hookups, hot showers, and a dump station.

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