The best running trails in Perry County

The Seven Hollows Trail offers a captivating jogging experience through Petit Jean State Park's diverse landscape. You'll wind through dense hardwood and pine forests, encountering impressive bluff lines and unique rock formations. The route continuously dips into and out of small canyons, revealing features like a massive natural stone arch you can pass under and a grotto with a seasonal waterfall, especially vibrant after rain. The varied terrain, from dirt paths to rocky sections, keeps the scenery engaging and your run dynamic.

To tackle this moderate 4.1-mile (6.6 km) jogging route, which features 356 feet (109 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 49 minutes, ensure you wear sturdy footwear. The trail is mostly shaded, making it a good option for warmer days, but the uneven footing means you'll want to be prepared. Parking is available at the trailhead within Petit Jean State Park, so plan to arrive early during peak times to secure a spot.

What truly sets the Seven Hollows Trail apart are its distinctive geological formations and the immersive experience of traversing its namesake hollows. Beyond the natural bridge and grotto, you'll also spot various caves and rock shelters, some hinting at prehistoric bluff-dwelling Native Americans. This continuous visual interest, with something new around every bend, makes it one of Arkansas's most interesting and popular trails for those seeking a scenic and moderately challenging jog.

If you're looking for a refreshing jog through diverse landscapes, the Boy Scout and Cedar Creek Trail Loop in Petit Jean State Park offers a fantastic option. This moderate 4.4-mile (7.1 km) route guides you through varied terrain, characteristic of the park's natural beauty, and includes the intriguing Rock House Cave as a unique landmark. You'll find yourself immersed in the natural surroundings, making for an engaging and scenic run that feels far removed from the everyday. It's a great way to experience the park's charm on foot.

Planning your visit to this trail is straightforward, as it's situated within the well-established Petit Jean State Park. While specific parking information isn't detailed, trailheads within state parks are typically well-marked and accessible. Given the moderate difficulty and 52-minute estimated duration, it's a route you can easily fit into a morning or afternoon, allowing plenty of time to explore other areas of the park. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene experience.

This loop is part of Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas's first state park, which is renowned for its distinctive geological formations, including sheer bluffs and Cedar Falls. The park boasts over 20 miles of trails that traverse forests, meadows, canyons, and streams, offering a rich tapestry of natural environments. The Boy Scout and Cedar Creek Trail Loop provides a taste of this diverse ecosystem, making it a notable choice among the park's many offerings for those who appreciate natural features and a good jogging workout.

The Boy Scout Trail offers a quintessential Joshua Tree trail running experience, guiding you through classic Joshua Tree forests dotted with chollas and hedgehog cacti. The terrain shifts from smooth, runnable sections to the dramatic "Wonderland of Rocks," where you'll weave through granite boulders and intimate canyons. This moderate 6.6-mile (10.7 km) route features 719 feet (219 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 23 minutes, making it a great option for a focused desert run.

For planning your Boy Scout Trail adventure, the southern trailhead provides ample parking and restrooms, though you'll need to bring all your water as none is available on site. The desert heat can be intense, so consider an early morning start or visiting during cooler seasons. Spring is particularly rewarding, as the trail often showcases vibrant wildflower displays.

This popular route stands out for its unique transition through both high and low Mojave Desert ecosystems, presenting a diverse array of plant life and geological formations. Many consider its dramatic narrow canyons and washes more scenic than other trails in the park, offering a rich experience for those exploring the Boy Scout Trail features.

The Running loop from University of Central Arkansas offers a refreshing and accessible jogging experience right on campus. This moderate 5.4-mile (8.7 km) route, with a minimal 63 feet (19 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a quick 53-minute run. You'll enjoy a mix of paved and natural surfaces, winding through pleasant campus scenery and urban greenways, possibly following sections of the Stone Dam Creek Trail.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the loop begins directly from the University of Central Arkansas. While specific parking isn't detailed, campus facilities are generally available. The route is designed for ease of use, featuring a pedestrian bridge and underpass for safe crossings, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for easy running loops near University of Central Arkansas.

This route stands out as a convenient way to explore the UCA campus and its immediate natural surroundings. It's a great option for a casual jog or a consistent training run, offering a pleasant outdoor experience without needing to venture far. The low elevation gain makes it suitable for beginner running routes UCA, ensuring an enjoyable outing for almost anyone.