Reserve Trail

A shaded, highly vegetated piece of the forest with knobby, thin trees.

Reserve Trail is a short, low-impact connector linking Oertel Trail with Spring Street and Reserve Street in Hot Springs' downtown trail network. Covering just 0.3 miles with 91 feet of elevation gain over 10-25 minutes, this walk is perfect for warming up before longer hikes or as a standalone urban stroll. The gentle 5.7% grade makes it accessible to most fitness levels. Ideal for families, fitness newcomers, or anyone seeking quick, pressure-free movement through the park.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 0.3
Route Type: Out-and-back connector
Difficulty Level: Walk in the park
Elevation Gain Feet: 91

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 0.3
Route Type: Out-and-back connector
Difficulty Level: Walk in the park
Elevation Gain Feet: 91
Estimated Time: 10-25 minutes for most hikers; 15-20 minutes is typical.
Trail Features: Short connector
Urban trail network
Y-intersection junction
Gentle grade
Downtown location
Trail Highlights: Bridge to longer trails—use this to connect into the Oertel Trail loop or explore the wider Reserve Street park network. Tactical warm-up before steeper mountain climbs.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Reserve Street at the Y-intersection junction with Oertel Trail
Parking Fill Time: Rarely full—downtown parking is typically available during operating hours.
Shuttle Required: 0

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits needed.
Fees: No entrance fee to Hot Springs National Park.
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: None. Trail is open daily, 5:00 am–10:00 pm, year-round.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: No water sources on trail. Carry 16–20 oz minimum.
Accessibility: This trail is not ADA compliant.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Exposure to sun on open stretches
Shared path with cyclists and pedestrians
Hazard Details: No cliff edges or technical exposure. Main hazard: sun exposure on downtown stretches. Stay alert for cyclists and other trail users on the shared path.
Cell Service: Full cellular coverage—downtown Hot Springs.
Crowd Level: Moderate—downtown location attracts daytime users; quieter at dawn and dusk.
Peak Crowd Times: Midday (10 AM–3 PM), especially weekends and summer season.
Best Season: Spring (April–May) and Fall (September–October) for moderate temperatures. Trail is open year-round.
Best Time To Visit: Start early (before 7 AM) to beat crowds and heat on downtown stretches. Late afternoon (after 4 PM) is tactical—quieter and cooler. Avoid midday sun exposure; carry water regardless of the short distance.
Tips Advice: Bring 16–20 oz water minimum—even short walks demand hydration.
Wear a hat; downtown stretches have limited shade.
Tighten your boots—loose footing kills efficiency on inclines.
Know the operating hours: 5:00 am–10:00 pm. Trail closes after dark.
This is a connector—have your next move planned before you start. Check Oertel Trail conditions first.

More details

Park Area: Downtown Hot Springs, near Reserve Street and Bathhouse Row
Trail Markers: Well-marked—trail is short and connects clearly to Spring and Reserve Streets.
Dogs Allowed: Yes, with mandatory leash. Clean up after your pet.
Shade Level: Mixed sun and shade—downtown corridor with some tree cover.
Emergency Contacts: Contact park ranger; cell service is reliable for 911 calls.
Map Recommended: 0
Snow Dates: Rare. Hot Springs rarely receives snow; trail typically open year-round.
Mud Season: Minimal risk—downtown location drains quickly.
Insider Tips: This is a bridge—most hikers use it to connect into larger loops. Stop at the Y-junction and scout your next move.
Downtown foot traffic peaks 10 AM–3 PM; arrive early or late for quieter conditions.
The grade steepens approaching the Y junction; stay engaged and don't coast.
Use this as a warm-up. It's a confidence builder, not a summit push.
Family Friendly Notes: Excellent for families with young children. Short duration (10–25 minutes) and minimal elevation gain make it accessible to most fitness levels. Flat terrain and busy downtown setting provide safety in numbers.
Nearby Facilities: Bathhouse Row bathhouses, Grand Promenade, park visitor center, downtown Hot Springs shops and restaurants.
Review Summary: Hikers praise this short connector for its simplicity and tactical role in longer park loops. Most complete it in 15–20 minutes without fatigue, making it ideal for families or fitness newcomers. Few complaints—expectations are clear for such a brief, low-impact walk.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail too easy?

No such thing as 'too easy.' This is a tactical warm-up or recovery walk. Use it to prep your legs before Oertel Trail or as a low-stress stroll. Fitness comes in layers.

Can I do this with young kids?

Yes. 10–25 minutes, flat terrain, downtown setting with safety in numbers. Perfect for families. Keep kids close near traffic areas near Spring Street.

Do I need a map?

No. Trail is short (0.3 miles), clearly marked, and connects to streets you can see. This isn't wilderness navigation.

What if I get dehydrated?

Carry water before you start—no sources on trail. Even 20 oz helps. Downtown has restaurants and fountains if you need refill, but don't count on it.

Is this worth my time?

Yes, if you're connecting to longer trails or exploring the park's downtown network. Skip it if you have 2+ hours and want a serious summit push.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes. Leash required, always. Clean up after your dog. Downtown has plenty of foot traffic—keep your dog under control.

Are there bugs?

Downtown urban setting has fewer insects than forested areas. Carry insect spray if sensitive, especially summer months.