Highpoint #14: Arkansas

Cross-Country Highpointing Trip, Stop #7

Vanity Shot at the Summit

The highpoint of Arkansas is Magazine Mountain, which is located fairly close to the I-40 interstate.  However, I was approaching it from the south having just wrapped up the Louisiana highpoint the previous afternoon.  This entailed some meandering, back roads having me driving decidedly off of the interstate.  I have to say, though, the driving was largely scenic.  I managed to pass by Hot Springs National Park, the Ozark National Forest, and I even had a wonderful vantage point of Nimrod Lake in the distance.  While not faster than the interstate, it was certainly a very enjoyable approach affording me the opportunity to really see Arkansas up close and personal, so to speak.

Entrance Sign for Mt. Magazine State Park

The highpoint of Arkansas is definitely one of the more elaborate ones.  It is contained in a large state park, replete with a visitor’s center, upscale lodge, hiking trails, and even places to rock climb and hang glide.  If highpointing is the least of your interests, you could certainly find plenty of other things to do the pass the time here.  On top of all of that, scenic views abound!  There are several lookout areas offering up some outstanding views. 

An Impressive Lookout

Another Lookout

I stopped in at the visitor’s center to grab a  brochure, but everything is pretty straightforward.  Basically, from the visitor’s center, you just proceed uphill to a ring road.  The highpoint is reached by hiking the Signal Hill trail, which is clearly marked from the road.  Beyond the parking area for this trail, there are overlook pull-offs, an amphitheater, picnic areas, and of course the lodge, all accessible from the road.

Trailhead for the Highpoint

The hike up Signal Hill was pretty easy.  It is about half-mile in length each way and is mainly comprised of switchbacks over gentle terrain.  The only concern is bears.  Evidently, they are indigenous to the area, though not often seen.  That was the case for me on my visit, as I was able to make my way up and down the hill without seeing much of anything in the way of local fauna, save for a lone deer. 

Local Fauna!

At the top of Signal Hill, there is much to remark.  Foremost, there is a very large suspended summit sign announcing the highest point of Arkansas, ringing in at a resounding 2,753 feet!  

The Summit!

Summit Register

In front of the sign, there is an elaborate mosaic of rocks that are arranged in the shape of the state of Arkansas.  Contained within, there is an official USGS geological benchmark marker that marks the true highpoint of the state.  There is also an official summit register.  The only thing that is missing at the top is a great view.  All of the amazing views are had from the ring road just below. 

Detail of USGS Marker

Vanity Shot by USGS Marker

Arriving early, I had the entire highpoint to myself as well as all of the lookouts.  The views really extend for quite some distance.  I have to say, Arkansas exceeded my expectations.  This was definitely one of the nicer highpoints.  Now off to Oklahoma!      

View from the Top!

Another View from the Top!