Arkansas has no shortage of breathtaking mountain views, but Pinnacle Mountain East Summit Trail offers some of the very best. No matter what the season, this incredibly scenic, yet challenging hike is worth every bit of effort. Take a look:

Among the highest-rated challenging hikes in Arkansas, Pinnacle Mountain East Summit Trail packs a punch in its brief, 1.2-mile distance. It does involve a fair amount of rock scrambling, however the awe-inspiring summit views are worth every drop of sweat.

AllTrails/Brent Murray

The trail starts off relatively flat and leads through a beautiful forest setting. Marker #7 is about when the uphill trek starts – so enjoy the leisurely stroll and enchanting woodland scenery while they last.

AllTrails/Laurie Berry

Luckily, the hardest stretch only lasts a few minutes. Much like ripping off a bandaid, the pain is over before you know it! Upon reaching the top, sprawling vistas of the surrounding lush greenery promise to take your breath away.

AllTrails/Mackenzie Harris

Foggy days are some of the best, as the low-lying clouds swirl around the mountain for a scene best described as ominously breathtaking. It’s so eerie, you’ll be half-expecting to hear a crack of lightning at any minute!

AllTrails/Trip Tennison

Boxed in on either side by Lake Maumelle and the Arkansas River, the trail boasts unparalleled waterfront views. You could sit up here all day and never get bored!

AllTrails/Teegan Martin

Pro-tip: arrive shortly before sunset (sunrise works, too) to reach the peak just as the sky is erupting in a spectacular pastel display. It’s little moments like this that make us truly grateful to live in the Natural State.

AllTrails/Trip Tennison

Pinnacle Mountain East Summit Trail is worth visiting any time of year. As the seasons change, so too does the scenery: fall brings vibrant foliage, winter, a snowy wonderland, spring boasts eye-popping wildflowers, and summer features healthy, flourishing vegetation.

AllTrails/Jamie Slusher

Visit the AllTrails page to learn more.

AllTrails/Brent Murray

AllTrails/Laurie Berry

AllTrails/Mackenzie Harris

AllTrails/Trip Tennison

AllTrails/Teegan Martin

AllTrails/Jamie Slusher

Have you ever hiked Pinnacle Mountain East Summit Trail? If so, are the views worth the challenge? Let us know your thoughts, and check out our previous article for another scenic, yet difficult hike: Hike To This Peak For Some Of The Best Views In All Of Arkansas.

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Address: Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Arkansas 72135, USA