Cedar Creek Self-Guiding Trail

The Cedar Creek Self Guiding Trail is a pupperific option if your dog is in the mood for a mellow walk through Mother Nature. Located in Arkansas’ Petit Jean State Park, this trail wanders through a beautiful forest and features a creek. Clip on your pup’s leash and get started!

This trail is not just a pretty walk in the woods. It also features self-guided information that allows you to learn all about the area’s flora, fauna, and unique features. Before setting off, pick up a brochure at the Visitors Center or Mather Lodge. If you prefer to go paperless, it is also available online.  

The hike begins and ends at a cabin built in 1845 by John Walker, the first person to settle on Petit Jean Mountain. After getting a good look at the cabin, continue down toward Cedar Creek. The first half of the loop follows this stream. If the creek is full, your pup can enjoy the scattered cascading waterfalls. During the dry season, the creek will likely be just a trickle, if it’s flowing at all. But there will still be pools of water full of fish. Like most trails in the area, this one is chock full of puptacular rock formations. Look for the leaning rock that fell right onto the trail years ago. The last stop on the trail is the pupular Overlook. As your doggo surveys the area, be sure to keep them away from the edge.

The park’s Visitors Center is just up the road from the trailhead. It has restrooms and drinking water. Be sure to fill up your water bottles before starting your hike, as your pooch is bound to get thirsty after exploring this pawsome trail. Also, don’t forget to bring some clean up bags. Most importantly, have a woof-derful time hanging out with your pup in the gorgeous Arkansas wilderness!