Attractions and Places To See around Natural Steps - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see around Natural Steps, an unincorporated community in Pulaski County, Arkansas, are primarily situated along the Arkansas River. This area, historically significant as a river landing, offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. While the geological formation known as the Natural Steps is not publicly accessible, the surrounding region provides extensive multi-use trails, prominent viewpoints, and notable landmarks. Visitors can explore the natural landscape of the Arkansas River Valley and its associated infrastructure.
Best attractions and places to see around Natural Steps
- The most popular attractions is Big Dam Bridge, a bridge that spans 4,226 feet across the Arkansas River. This structure is the longest bridge built specifically for pedestrians and cyclists in North America, connecting Little Rock and North Little Rock.
- Another must-see spot is Murray Lock and Dam on the Arkansas River, a man-made monument. This site is a key part of the Arkansas River's infrastructure and is integrated into the extensive Arkansas River Trail system.
- Visitors also love View from Pinnacle Mountain Summit, a summit offering a spectacular vista. From this point, one can see the Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.
- Natural Steps is known for its bridges, trails, and viewpoints. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, catering to outdoor enthusiasts.
- The attractions around Natural Steps are appreciated by the komoot community, with 24 upvotes and 12 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Big Dam Bridge
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Murray Lock and Dam on the Arkansas River
Highlight (Segment) • Monument
In the meantime, though, it remains part of a more than 80-mile loop that traverses both banks of the Arkansas River, including a couple of lovely pedestrian bridges and access to walkable parts of downtown.
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Arkansas River Trail
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Two Rivers Park Bridge
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View from Pinnacle Mountain Summit
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Tips from the Community
The Two Rivers Park Bridge is a modern design combining concrete and steel, creating a sturdy and attractive structure. The bridge has a considerable length, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to easily move between the two banks of the river. https://spacewaves.io
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The Arkansas River Trail is pretty much the perfect bike trail, although active efforts are underway to make it even better and more accessible to all users. In the meantime, though, it remains part of a more than 80-mile loop that traverses both banks of the Arkansas River, including a couple of lovely pedestrian bridges and access to walkable parts of downtown.
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Big Dam Bridge was Originally planned to be called the Murray Bridge, but that name did not stick. The bridge streches over the Arkansas River and Murray Lock and Dam, connecting Little Rock and North Little Rock. Open exclusively to pedestrians and cyclists, it spans 4,226 feet, making it the longest pedestrian/bicycle bridge in North America never used by trains or vehicles. Rising up 90 feet above the river, the bridge gives great views and connects Murray Park to Cook's Landing Park. Opened in 2006, it cost about $12.8 million to build and hosts popular races, earning awards for its design and contribution to the community's health and economy.
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It is best to take the West Summit Trail on the way up.
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The Arkansas River Trail is a 15.6-mile paved multi-use trail that forms a long loop along the shores of the Arkansas River through the city of Little Rock.
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The Big Dam Bridge is the longest bridge built specifically for pedestrians and cyclists in North America, spanning 4,226 feet across the Arkansas River.
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The summit of Pinnacle Mountain provides a spectacular vista of the Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. The main trail from the east side leading to the summit is a fun low class rock scramble. It is easier and safer to descend the more moderate trail off the west side of the summit.
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The summit of Pinnacle Mountain provides a spectacular vista of the Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. The main trail from the east side leading to the summit is a fun low class rock scramble. It is easier and safer to descend the more moderate trail off the west side of the summit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit the geological formation known as the Natural Steps?
The unique geological formation called the Natural Steps, which inspired the community's name, is located along the Arkansas River. However, it is not open to the public for viewing. Visitors to the area can instead explore numerous other natural features and recreational opportunities nearby.
What are the best attractions for outdoor enthusiasts around Natural Steps?
The area around Natural Steps is ideal for outdoor activities, particularly along the Arkansas River. You can explore the Arkansas River Trail, a 15.6-mile paved multi-use path, or cross the impressive Big Dam Bridge, the longest pedestrian and cyclist bridge in North America. Another popular spot is the Two Rivers Park Bridge, offering scenic views of the Maumelle and Arkansas Rivers.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Natural Steps area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Big Dam Bridge and Two Rivers Park Bridge are both wheelchair accessible and great for walks or bike rides with children. The Arkansas River Trail is also a paved, multi-use path perfect for family outings.
Where can I find the best views of the Arkansas River Valley?
For spectacular panoramic views, head to the View from Pinnacle Mountain Summit. From this point, you can see the expansive Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. The main trail to the summit from the east side involves a low-class rock scramble, with a more moderate trail available for descent on the west side.
What kind of trails are available for hiking near Natural Steps?
The area offers a variety of hiking trails, particularly within Pinnacle Mountain State Park. You can find easy trails like the West Summit Trail or the Base Trail. For more challenging options, consider the climb to the Pinnacle Mountain Summit. You can find more details on various routes in the Hiking around Natural Steps guide.
Are there opportunities for cycling around Natural Steps?
Absolutely. The region is well-known for its cycling infrastructure. The Arkansas River Trail is a 15.6-mile paved multi-use trail perfect for road cycling. For mountain biking, you can explore routes like the Jackfork Loop or Rattlesnake Ridge loop, which are part of the MTB Trails around Natural Steps guide.
What historical or man-made landmarks can I visit?
The area features several significant man-made structures that are integrated into the natural landscape. The Big Dam Bridge is an engineering marvel, being the longest pedestrian/cyclist bridge in North America. Another notable site is the Murray Lock and Dam on the Arkansas River, a crucial part of the river's infrastructure and accessible via the Arkansas River Trail system.
What running routes are available near Natural Steps?
Runners have several excellent options. The Arkansas River Trail offers a long, paved loop. You can also find routes like the Little Maumelle River loop from Two Rivers Park or the Pinnacle Mountain loop from Pinnacle Mountain State Park. More running routes can be found in the Running Trails around Natural Steps guide.
What is the significance of the Arkansas River in this region?
The Arkansas River has historically been vital to the Natural Steps community, serving as a significant steamboat landing in the 19th century. Today, it remains a central feature, providing a scenic backdrop for many attractions and recreational activities, including the extensive Arkansas River Trail and the Murray Lock and Dam.
Are there any accessible attractions for visitors with mobility considerations?
Yes, several key attractions are designed to be accessible. The Big Dam Bridge, Two Rivers Park Bridge, and the Arkansas River Trail are all wheelchair accessible, offering paved surfaces for easy navigation and enjoyment of the scenic river views.
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