Gulpha Gorge Trail

Overview

Gulpha Gorge Trail is the quick, lung‑burning connector between Gulpha Gorge Campground and the Hot Springs/North Mountain trail network. It’s 0.6 miles one way (1.2 miles round trip) with a typical grade around 13.8%, so expect a stout climb on packed dirt and gravel. The park rates it steep/strenuous. Plan on about 30–60 minutes one way depending on fitness and heat.

Route and Mileage

From the campground amphitheater, cross Gulpha Creek on stepping stones and take the left trail to begin the climb. Switchbacks lead up to the North/Hot Springs Mountain area, where you can continue on Hot Springs Mountain Trail or peel off to Goat Rock. You can also start from the top near the shelter on North Mountain and descend to the campground instead. On park maps, Gulpha Gorge is blazed pink. If you return the same way, the basic out‑and‑back is 1.2 miles total; linking Goat Rock makes it ~2+ miles depending on your route.

What You’ll See

This is classic Ouachita foothill hiking: shady oak‑hickory forest, mossy, colorful rock, and glimpses back over the campground and Hot Springs as you near the top. The Goat Rock overlook, reached via a short connector near the upper end, offers wider views across the Ouachitas. Keep an eye out for deer and plenty of birdlife; lizards are common on warm days. The surrounding ridgeline exposes pieces of the park’s folded Ouachita Mountain geology, including hard novaculite and sandstone layers that shaped these steep slopes.

Best Times to Hike

Year‑round, but spring and fall are the sweet spots for mild temps and fewer crowds; fall color is a highlight. In summer, start early or late to dodge heat and humidity. Trails are open 5:00 am to 10:00 pm. Midday is typically the busiest window.

Trailhead and Parking

If you’re camping, you’re steps away: start by the campground amphitheater. If not, park at Gulpha Gorge Picnic Area off Gorge Road and walk into the campground to the start. From the top, look for the trail access near the shelter on North Mountain.

Tips and Cautions

This trail is short but steep, with loose gravel and rocks—grippy shoes help, and trekking poles make the descent easier on knees. It is not ADA accessible. Water is a must on warm days. Cell service can be spotty; bring or download a map before you go. Pets are allowed on leash, and you’ll need to pack out all waste. There’s a stepping‑stone crossing of Gulpha Creek at the start from the campground—expect wet feet if flows are up.

Extend Your Hike

A popular add‑on is Goat Rock Trail for the namesake overlook. For a bit more distance without extra climbing, loop the top via Hot Springs Mountain Trail and return the same way. If you want a big day later in your trip, the park’s Sunset Trail network offers the longest mileage; Gulpha Gorge is a good warm‑up for that kind of terrain.