Arlington Trail

Q: Is this trail safe to hike alone?

Yes, absolutely. It's in the developed Bathhouse Row area near Arlington Hotel with staff nearby. No wildlife hazards, exposure, or navigation concerns. Well-traveled connector path.

Q: Do I need special gear or training?

No special requirements. Wear sturdy shoes for the concrete steps and bring a water bottle. No permits, fitness level, or navigation skills required.

Q: How long does this actually take?

The NPS estimates 5-10 minutes. Most hikers complete it in under 5 minutes. It's a quick leg-stretcher, not a hike.

Q: Is there water or a restroom on the trail?

No water sources or restrooms on the trail itself. Arlington Hotel at the trailhead can provide both. Bring a water bottle.

Q: When is the best time to visit?

Early morning (5:00 am opening) offers quiet and cool temperatures. The trail opens daily at 5:00 am and closes at 10:00 pm. Any season works year-round.

Overview

About This Trail

A brief connector between the Arlington Hotel lobby and Lower Dogwood Trail, this 0.1-mile walk spans 5-10 minutes with just 13 feet of elevation gain. The packed dirt surface with concrete steps makes it accessible for most visitors. Open daily 5:00 am to 10:00 pm year-round with no fees or permits required. Best suited as a quick warm-up or leg-stretcher before tackling longer trails.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

Serves as a quick connector to Lower Dogwood Trail. Ideal warm-up walk for visitors in the Bathhouse Row and Arlington Hotel area.

Insider Tips

• Ask Arlington Hotel staff to confirm the exact trailhead location upon arrival • This is a connector trail; consider extending to Lower Dogwood Trail for more mileage • Visit early (5:00 am opening) for solitude and cool morning temperatures • Bring water even for brief walks—hydration is non-negotiable • Watch your footing on concrete steps and packed dirt surface

Best Season to Hike

Year-round. Trail open all seasons.

Hiking Tips

Ask Arlington Hotel lobby staff for precise trailhead directions
Wear sturdy shoes for the concrete steps
Bring water even for brief walks
Consider continuing to Lower Dogwood Trail for a longer hike
Open daily 5:00 am to 10:00 pm

Family Info

Excellent for families and elderly visitors due to minimal distance (0.1 miles), minimal elevation gain (13 feet), and short duration (5-10 minutes). Concrete steps at the start may present a minor challenge for visitors with mobility limitations.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.1 miles

Elevation Gain: 13 ft

Duration: 5-10 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: One-way connector

Surface: Packed dirt with concrete steps

Getting There

Trailhead: Arlington Hotel lobby. Coordinates: 34.5175°N, 93.0527°W. Ask hotel staff for exact trailhead directions.

Requirements

Permit Required

None required

Fees: No entrance fee

Shuttle Available

Not applicable

Trail Rules

Dogs: Yes. Pets must be leashed. Please clean up after your pet.

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No water sources on trail. Arlington Hotel at trailhead can provide water.

Hazards:

Concrete steps at trailhead and packed dirt surface throughout. Not ADA compliant.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not ADA compliant. Packed dirt surface with concrete steps at the trailhead.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Arlington Hotel is at the trailhead area. Bathhouse Row and surrounding area have visitor services. Ask hotel staff for specific facility locations.

FAQs

Can young children and elderly visitors do this trail?

Yes, easily. At 0.1 miles with just 13 feet of gain and 5-10 minutes of walking, it's designed for all ages and fitness levels. Watch footing on the concrete steps at the start.

Is this trail safe to hike alone?

Do I need special gear or training?

How long does this actually take?

Is there water or a restroom on the trail?

When is the best time to visit?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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