The year was drawing to a close, a year overflowing with outdoor adventures. From the dusty trails of the Arkansas Graveler to the serene beauty of Lake DeGray, we’d carved unforgettable memories into 2024. Yet, as the holiday cheer faded and the calendar neared its end, a yearning for one last escapade stirred within. And so, with a resolve to cap the year with a flourish, we set our sights on Petit Jean State Park hiking trails.
Founded on land generously donated by the Fort Smith Lumber Company, Petit Jean boasts a history intertwined with the rugged beauty of its terrain. The company, recognizing the insurmountable challenges posed by the steep canyons and untamed landscape, wisely deemed the area unsuitable for timber harvesting. This fortunate turn of events preserved this natural treasure for generations to enjoy, and today, we were adding our own chapter to its story. (More on the history of the park.)
Our adventure began at Mather Lodge, a historic landmark within the park. The air was crisp, the sun a welcome companion as we embarked on our descent towards Cedar Falls. The trail, a series of sturdy rock steps, plunged steeply into the canyon. While the downward journey was manageable, the promise of the return ascent served as a gentle reminder to savor every moment.
Reaching the canyon floor, we crossed the modern bridge spanning Cedar Creek and veered right, following the trail toward the thundering falls. The path, though rocky, was easily navigated. As we drew closer, the melodic gurgle of the creek was gradually drowned out by the deafening roar of Cedar Falls. The sight that greeted us was breathtaking – a torrent of water cascading over the precipice, its spray a shimmering mist. We spent a blissful hour exploring the base of the falls, scrambling over rocks to capture different perspectives, and even attempting to recreate a cherished Christmas Day photo from this very spot.
With the memory of Cedar Falls etched in our minds, we continued our journey along the Canyon Trail. This time, we decided to extend our exploration, bypassing the trailhead leading back to the lodge. Instead, we ventured deeper, following the creek along the less-traveled path toward Blue Hole. The trail was a tapestry of muted colors, the crunch of fallen leaves the only sound besides the gentle murmur of the creek.
At Blue Hole, where the Canyon Trail intersected with the Boy Scout Trail, we resisted the temptation to embark on the familiar Seven Hollows Trail, a personal favorite. Instead, we opted for the unknown, turning right and embarking on a challenging ascent towards Red Bluff. The trail, wide enough for a vehicle, climbed relentlessly, revealing glimpses of the Arkansas River Valley through the skeletal remains of the deciduous trees. Along the way, we encountered remnants of the Civilian Conservation Corps’s legacy – rock-armored drainages, testaments to the hard work of the men who shaped this park.
Reaching the summit, we crossed Red Bluff Drive and continued along the trail, enjoying panoramic views of the canyon and spotting the lodge and cabins nestled on the opposite side. As hunger pangs began to gnaw, we knew the lodge was within reach, yet another mile lay ahead before we could cross the creek and begin our ascent.
Near Turtle Rocks, a prominent geological feature, we encountered a slight detour. But with renewed determination, we rejoined the Boy Scout Trail, navigating through a maze of massive boulders, the trail winding its way down towards the creek. Finally, we crossed the bridge, turned right, and began the arduous climb back to the lodge.
Exhausted but exhilarated, we arrived back at Mather Lodge around 2 pm. Seven miles and 1200 feet of elevation gain had tested our limits, but the sense of accomplishment was immense. We rewarded ourselves with a hearty meal at the lodge restaurant – burgers, fried chicken livers, and locally brewed beer from Pointe Remove – a fitting finale to an unforgettable adventure. As the day drew to a close, we prepared for the New Year’s Eve festivities, our hearts and minds still lingering on the beauty and challenges of Petit Jean State Park.
This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens—thank you for supporting our work!
