Happy Trails: East Summit Trail Pinnacle Mountain State Park

A couple enjoys a quiet moment and the view of the Arkansas River from on top of Pinnacle Mountain. At Pinnacle Mountain State Park.

Most climbers use the easier (but still steep and rocky) West Summit Trail, but those with sturdy knees and plenty of time can try the East Summit for bragging rights.
Both trails are about 1.5 miles round trip

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette/MICHAEL STOREY
A couple enjoys a quiet moment and the view of the Arkansas River from on top of Pinnacle Mountain. At Pinnacle Mountain State Park. Most climbers use the easier (but still steep and rocky) West Summit Trail, but those with sturdy knees and plenty of time can try the East Summit for bragging rights. Both trails are about 1.5 miles round trip Arkansas Democrat-Gazette/MICHAEL STOREY

East Summit Trail Pinnacle Mountain State Park

Location: Trailhead parking is on Pinnacle Valley Road 0.52 mile southeast of Arkansas 300.

Length: This extremely steep and boulder-strewn trail is 1.5 miles round trip. Do your knees a favor and descend on the less strenuous (but still difficult) West Summit Trail and hike back to the car on the Base Trail for a total of 2.52 miles.

Main attractions: Most hikers trek to the top via the west side, but there are serious bragging rights for making it up the east. There ought to be an “I Made It” T-shirt. The view is spectacular.

Hazards: You can’t really fall off, but there are several long, nasty boulder fields in the last 0.2 mile that will snap your ankle like a twig if you misstep. Wear proper shoes and take water. Lots of it.

Dog, bike, tyke friendly? Not in the least. Hikers trot dogs up the west side, but the pooches don’t look happy about it. Treat the tykes to the nearby (and flat) Kingfisher and Arkansas Arboretum trails.

GPS: 34.844315 -92.479118

Video: ArkansasOnline.com/happytrails

Rating (out of five): ....

— Michael Storey

Know a good trail for a hike? Email

[email protected]

Upcoming Events