Waterfalls, a natural bridge, caves with petroglyphs, and rocks that look like turtles – these are just a few of the treasures you will discover around the first state park in Arkansas.
Petit Jean State Park is steeped in legend. It is said that a French nobleman was to explore uncharted territories, to the dismay of his fiancée. As a woman, she would never have been allowed to join him on the perilous journey – so she disguised herself as a man and took on the name Petit Jean, or Little John. The crew made its way into the Arkansas wilderness and Petit Jean became gravely ill. At this time, the man realized that it was his beloved. Reunited for a short and sad time, she requested that her body be buried high up in the mountains which would thereafter be named in her memory. The park is as strange and enchanting as the story.
With many attractions in over 3,000 acres of park land, it is good to have a plan to see the most amazing features. Don’t miss:
+Seven Hollows Hiking Trail
This 4½ mile loop hike is enticing and ever changing. Along the path there are many eerie caves, calling to the adventurous bushwacker.
In spring the water was running high, bubbling cascades and stream crossings were abundant.
Trails are well maintained and marked even including mileage along the way.
Squeeze your way through big boulders.
Walk beneath a natural bridge.
The bridge is surely one of the most spectacular sights on the trail, very unique and almost out of place in its odd perfection.
A bit of elevation gain keeps the hike interesting and provides lovely views of the plateau.
Do take the spur trail to the grotto, the walk there is captivating.
Tall walls form with subway like curves.
At the end of the line, a pristine waterfall tumbles into a cool and inviting pool.
Spy the most obscure patterns in rocks.
Walk amongst the rocks, cool to the touch.
And hop over rocks, to finish the loop and continue along in the park.
+Cedar Falls
The 95-foot can be viewed from an overlook by a short trail, but if you have the time and energy I would recommend taking the longer trail to get a better view – I wish I had.
While still amazing and powerful from up top, this is just a taste and a profound sight like as this deserves a trek of its own.
+Rock House Cave
It is just a short walk to reach this incredible cave filled with history. On its walls are faint red images, ancient petroglyphs made from mineral pigments mixed with animal fat.
Don’t be in such a hurry to and from the cave, this little hike packs a serious punch.
Along the way there are turtle rocks, which were caused by an erosion process called spheroidal weathering. The crackling mounds of sandstone look just like the backs of the namesake creatures.
+Stout’s Point
Perhaps the most lovely part of the park, this sprawling vista stretching far out into the Arkansas River valley is easily accessible.
An intriguing element up here aside from the view are the resort ruins from the 1920s.
Good to know:
+This astounding park is entirely free for hiking and sightseeing
+Additional amenities include cabins for camping, a pool, tennis courts, a gift shop, and even a Museum of Automobiles