Whitaker Point & Hawksbill Crag

Posted byLaura LanePosted inUncategorizedTags:,

As one of the most iconic places in Arkansas, I wanted to write my first blog about Whitaker Point Trail. I hiked this trail in October when this picture was taken and the leaves were just beginning to turn. Then I hiked it again over winter break in December. It has gorgeous lookouts, a double waterfall, and the crag.

It is up a very steep, dirt road to the trailhead. I would be cautious about driving a low car up the mountain, although it appears to be graded for pot holes fairly often. I traveled in a truck and didn’t have any problems. I did noticed that there were a few cars parked by the trailhead, but most vehicles were SUVs or trucks. On the weekend in October the parking space was packed and it was hard to find a spot, but in December on a weekday it wasn’t as busy.

The trail itself is an out and back with a length of 2.9 miles. There is a creek about half way down that turns into a small waterfall. If you go off trail and explore the waterfall, there is a large cave in the side of the cliff behind it, and there is a second waterfall below it. Back on the trail there are cool rocks along the edge of the cliff between the crag and the waterfall.

Just before the crag there are two places for great overlook views and pictures. The crag itself is fairly flat except for the point which isn’t as level. I recommend extreme caution and not getting close to the edge. There is the risk of severe injury with falling.

Because this is one of the most recognizable places in Arkansas, it is heavily trafficked. The trail is well worn and easily followed. It is also dog friendly and many furry friends visit the trail on leashes. Depending on the experience you want, try to plan your trip on a day of the week with human traffic in mind.

This is a view from on top of the crag in December.

15 thoughts on “Whitaker Point & Hawksbill Crag”

  1. I love hiking but I haven’t actually been here. My family always goes to either Petit Jean or Pinnacle. I can’t wait to see what other places you blog about so that I know of more places to go!

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  4. I have always been skeptical of hiking in my past years because I thought “glorified walking” was all it was. But, I found some gorgeous places to go and enjoy myself and I will definitely be keeping up with your posts for inspirational destinations.

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  5. I love hiking but my family only ever goes to Petit Jean or Pinnacle. Since we already know where those are, we don’t venture out and try to find new trails. I would love some new scenery so I can’t wait to see what other places you know of!

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  6. What a gorgeous place to go on a hike! My husband and I have been on a few hikes since we moved to Arkansas but haven’t heard about either of these. Sounds like we will take a day trip during the week to avoid the heavy traffic. Thanks for the information.

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  7. I’m excited about your blog! I grew up in the smoky mountains in TN and have lived in AR for 3 years and everyone tells me there’s good hiking here but I’ve yet to find it. Thanks for the posts!

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    1. The trail head has a campsite and I am sure that there are others around in the area. I haven’t camped near here. The trail took us around two hours, but it can last longer or shorter depending on how long you stop to look at the views and go through the cave.

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