Start 2025 off on the right foot (or left foot) with a hike along the beautiful trails of Lake Ouachita State Park! Join us as we celebrate getting out and enjoy First Day Hikes across Arkansas State Parks. Take a guided hike along our scenic Caddo Bend Trail. Staff and volunteers will lead three hikes of various lengths down the trail. All hikes will begin at the Caddo Bend trailhead at the designated start time.

The shortest option for visitors will be a 1-mile loop (red trail). This trail will allow visitors views of the south side of the lake and will take approximately one hour. For a moderate length hike, visitors will have the option to follow a guide down to the Point 50 Overlook and back for the shorter option (blue trail). This hike to the overlook is approximately 3-miles in length and will take about 2 hours to complete. This trail will allow visitors to see across Lake Ouachita and experience breathtaking views from the Point 50 Overlook. For those that want to hike a little further, they will have the option to follow a guide as they hike Caddo Bend Trail and its entirety (yellow trail). For those interested in hiking the entire Caddo Bend Trail, it will take approximately 3 hours and is 4 miles in length and is classified for moderate to strenuous. Make sure to dress appropriately, bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes. We look forward to seeing you on the trail! After guests hike the trail, they are invited to warm up and share their experiences at a small bonfire near the Caddo Bend trailhead and receive their First Day Hiking stickers. If you take any photos during the day to commemorate your experience, don't forget to use.

Meeting Place: Caddo Bend Trailhead

Admission: Free