Sandy beaches may not be the first thing that comes to mind when picturing Fort Smith but the beginning of Powers Port Canoe Access is just that! This water trail will tour you along the Arkansas River for a refreshing adventure filled with sightseeing. Grab a paddle, pick a path, and take this relaxing river cruise.
Powers Port Canoe Access is a rather underrated spot in Fort Smith.
TripAdvisor/Carol C. It’s off of Riverfront Drive, near the Fort Smith Park. Besides leading you to Sandy Cove, the port is also the trailhead for a water cruise!
Get ready for a canoe cruise after you’ve played on the beach for a bit.
TripAdvisor/Carol C. Sandy Cove may not be an ocean-side sandy shore but it sure is a unique treat in Fort Smith! Scour the sand for shells, build a castle, or just enjoy some quiet fishing time while you’re here.
The water trail is a short but sweet route along the backwaters of the Arkansas River.
TripAdvisor/Carol C. This shallower route adjacent to the river is free from any barge traffic and easy to navigate. The route tours you around a tiny island and to a nearby park.
This quiet cruise is a refreshing way to take in Fort Smith’s greenery.
Google/Ryan Moon This off-the-main-channel route offers endless opportunities for wildlife watching. The covered shorelines are a favorite perching spot for birds as well as deer.
The main attraction on this path is the nearby Fort Smith Park.
Google/Gunner Wright Though we enjoy the journey as much as the destination!
This little day trip features water and land trails!
TripAdvisor/Carol C. The park has tables for a picnic, playground for the kids, and trails for walking! Paddle up to shore for a snack break or just for a quick photo of the bridge.
No matter how long you stay on the water or shore, this is a trip your family will thoroughly love.
TripAdvisor/Carol C. This is a great first trip for smaller kayakers and their families. For more information on the water trail, head to the Fort Smith Park’s website right here!
Have you taken this exciting water trail before? Which direction did you go on the river? Share your experience with us in the comments below! We’d also love to see your photos in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
TripAdvisor/Carol C.
It’s off of Riverfront Drive, near the Fort Smith Park. Besides leading you to Sandy Cove, the port is also the trailhead for a water cruise!
Sandy Cove may not be an ocean-side sandy shore but it sure is a unique treat in Fort Smith! Scour the sand for shells, build a castle, or just enjoy some quiet fishing time while you’re here.
This shallower route adjacent to the river is free from any barge traffic and easy to navigate. The route tours you around a tiny island and to a nearby park.
Google/Ryan Moon
This off-the-main-channel route offers endless opportunities for wildlife watching. The covered shorelines are a favorite perching spot for birds as well as deer.
Google/Gunner Wright
Though we enjoy the journey as much as the destination!
The park has tables for a picnic, playground for the kids, and trails for walking! Paddle up to shore for a snack break or just for a quick photo of the bridge.
This is a great first trip for smaller kayakers and their families. For more information on the water trail, head to the Fort Smith Park’s website right here!
While you’re in Fort Smith be sure to grab dessert at this little shop. Their Freakshakes will have you drooling!
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Address: 4224 AR-255, Fort Smith, AR 72901, USA
