Bona Dea Trail

Welcome to the Prairie Creek bottomlands, home to the Bona Dea Sanctuary and Trails, with over 180 acres of wetlands! Here, there is plenty to do with your furry friend. There are over 6 miles of trails winding through the area, although the most pawpular is arguably the Bona Dea Trail. While some visitors break the trail down into a system of four, most hikers follow the path as one. 

This path is a favorite among locals thanks to its easy terrain. Over 4 miles of pavement stretch along, guiding you through the cypress, water oak, and sweet gum that brighten up the area. To catch nature at its best, visit the park in the springtime, when all the wildflowers and animals come out to play. The Bona Dea Trail is also a great choice on a hot summer day, since it is mostly shaded and offers decent refuge from the sun. The trail is open year round, so feel free to explore it throughout different times of year to decide what you and Spot pre-fur!

A staple of this path is the lake that it borders, which lends beautiful views for hikers along the way. The Dardanelle Lake is a remarkable sight, sitting on 34,000 acres with 315 miles of shoreline! The Bona Dea Trail and Sanctuary is a gem tucked away in Arkansas, bringing visitors from around the country to revel in its expansive wetlands and the wildlife it brings. It’s not uncommon to see tourists, nature photographers, joggers, or bird watchers during your hike.

The Bona Dea Trail is an excellent option for beginners, such as younger dogs and two-legged travelers. You won’t be exposed to the sun, but be sure to bring drinking water and snacks as fuel to keep you going. You can even take advantage of the fitness course along the way!