Hot Springs Arkansas - National Park

About 50 miles southwest of Little Rock Arkansas in the Zig Zag Mountains is Hot Springs National Park. This area was preserved by the government in 1832 and often claims to be the first National Park as it predates Yellowstone National Park. You won't find any hot pools in the woods here. Today, the buildings and active bathhouses are still regulated by the National Park Service as they try to protect the 47 hot springs in the area. Along with the historic buildings, much of the surrounding hills are in the national park and offer miles of hiking and nature trails. People have been attracted since the 1800's to treat illness as well as for relaxation. It became known as "The American Spa". The park service has a word document of the history you can download at:

Hot Springs, Arkansas and National Park

Visitors Center and Bathhouse Row

Hot Springs Mountain Tower

Buckstaff Bathhouse

The Promenade

Hiking

The visitors center is inside the restored Fordyce Bathhouse on Bathhouse Row. There are guided tours and films but most self guide themselves through the 24 rooms restored and furnished as they appeared during the early 20th century.

This 216 foot observation tower gives views over the city and the surrounding mountains. A paved scenic loop road climbs steeply out of town up the hillside above the town. On top the tower stands, the 3rd tower to be there since 1877. Inside are exhibits about the history of the area.

A national historic landmark, has been in continuous operation since 1912 and remains the only bathhouse providing the traditional bathing experience in Hot Springs National Park. My wife highly recommends the experience. I on the other hand went hiking.

Above Central Avenue and Bathhouse Row is the Promenade. This half-mile walk has views of the historic downtown, rock cliffs, a hot springs cascade and forest. The red and yellow brick walkway accesses hiking trails as well.

There are many trails in the park. Most are nice walks in the forest and many leave right from the hotel area in town. Below is the only hike I did while there.