Yes, for those comfortable with rocky terrain. A helmet is smart because of bikes. Supervise closely on loose gravel sections.

Yes. Must be on leash, and you must clean up after them.

Pullman Trail - 0.8mi Moderate Hike

Q: Will I encounter mountain bikes?

Yes, often. This is the park's only bike-allowed trail. Expect frequent mountain bike traffic.

Q: Is there water on the trail?

No. Carry minimum 2L water. Sun exposure on gravel is intense. Bring it before you go.

Q: What's the terrain like?

Packed gravel and rocky ground. Tighten your boots—they'll slip if loose. Descents with loose gravel require careful footing.

Distance

0.8 mi

Elevation Gain

133 ft

Est. Time

25-45 minutes

Route Type

Out-and-back one-way, or connect to city loop trails

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Spring and fall for cooler weather; trail open all seasons

Overview

About This Trail

Short gravel-and-rock trail packed with boot traffic and mountain bike volume year-round. You'll pass an archeological site and connect to the city's Northwoods Trails, making it flexible for a quick morning hit or a link in a longer loop. The exposure is real—pack water and sunscreen. Moderate grade, 25-45 minutes.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Trail Highlights

Passes an archeological site of historical significance. Only bicycle-allowed trail in Hot Springs National Park. Connects to the city's Northwoods Trails for extended loop options.

Insider Tips

• The only park trail allowing bicycles—expect frequent mountain bike traffic, especially dawn and dusk. • Trail connects to Northwoods Trails; you can extend into the city's trail network. • Trail passes an archeological site en route.

Best Season to Hike

Spring and fall for cooler weather; trail open all seasons

Hiking Tips

Carry 2L water minimum—full sun on gravel with no shade sources.
Tighten your boots; loose gravel shifts on descent.
Stay predictable around frequent mountain bikes; make noise.
Go dawn or early morning to avoid midday heat and peak cyclist traffic.
Keep dogs leashed firmly; this is shared-use terrain.

Family Info

Short distance (0.8mi, 25-45min) and moderate difficulty suit most families. Rocky, loose-gravel surface requires attention and supervision of younger children. Helmet recommended for all due to frequent mountain bike traffic.

What Hikers Say

Short distance and bike-friendly designation make this accessible to most fitness levels. Hikers note the gravel surface requires footing discipline, especially on descent, and bike traffic demands situational awareness. The moderate grade and quick exit options make it achievable for anyone with basic hiking fitness.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 133 ft

Duration: 25-45 minutes

Difficulty: Moderate

Route Type: Out-and-back one-way, or connect to city loop trails

Surface: Packed gravel and rocky ground

Getting There

Trailhead: Trail head near Northwoods Trails connector, north area

Requirements

Permit Required

No permit required

Fees: Free - no entrance fee

Shuttle Available

Not applicable

Trail Rules

Dogs: Yes, on leash. Must clean up after your pet.

Biking: Yes - only trail in Hot Springs National Park that permits bicycles

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None on trail - carry all water

Hazards:

Packed gravel and rocky surface is slippery; loose gravel on downhill requires deliberate footing. Mountain bike traffic is frequent—stay alert and move predictably. Unshaded and fully exposed to Arkansas sun; dehydration is the real threat here.

Emergency: Call 911. Park Headquarters: https://www.nps.gov/hosp/index.htm

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not ADA compliant. Packed gravel and rocky surface with uneven terrain throughout.

Family Notes:

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this trail hard?

No. Moderate grade, 0.8 miles, 25-45 minutes. This is a warm-up hike, not a challenge.

Will I encounter mountain bikes?

Is it safe for kids?

Can I bring my dog?

Is there water on the trail?

What's the terrain like?

📖 National Park Service — Pullman Trail (official page) (checked 2026-06-13) 📖 National Park Service — Hot Springs National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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

Visit Website