NWA Daily

Northwest Arkansas and the Ozark Mountains are a great place… to get your steps in.

As the weather warms up, check out this curated list of the best places to go for a wal throughout the region, ranging from the Greenway, Downtown strolls, and trail walks.

— Written by Tyler Roth, Market Director at NWA Daily

🌳 Top Multi‑Use & Paved Walking Trails

🚶‍♂️ Razorback Regional Greenway (Across NWA)

One of the most iconic trail systems in Northwest Arkansas, this ~40‑mile paved greenway connects Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, and Bella Vista. You can walk short sections or go for longer stretches, linking parks, downtowns, lakes, and community stops.

  • Best for: Long walks, variety of scenery

  • Terrain: Smooth pavement

  • Distance Options: 1+ miles up to entire 40‑mile route

🚶‍♀️ Lake Fayetteville Trail, Fayetteville

A ~5.5‑mile loop around Lake Fayetteville, this paved trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll or jog, winding through forests and along the water.

  • Best for: Medium‑length walks, scenery

  • Terrain: Paved, stroller‑friendly

  • Extras: Picnic spots, lake views

🐕 Lake Atalanta, Rogers

Over 4 miles of paved walking paths around the lake, with boardwalks, water views, and plenty of benches.

  • Best for: Relaxed walks, birdwatching

  • Terrain: Paved and well‑maintained

  • Extras: Playground and water activities nearby

🌿 Compton Gardens & Crystal Bridges Trails, Bentonville

Scenic woodland paths and creekside trails on the grounds of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

  • Best for: Nature walks + artsy scenery

  • Terrain: Paved/natural paths

  • Bonus: Coffee stop at Airship Coffee along the trail (Coler Park)

🏛️ Urban & Historic Walks

🏘️ Historic District, Fayetteville

Stroll through charming streets lined with historic homes, churches, and local shops. A great way to soak in Fayetteville’s architecture and story.

  • Best for: Casual urban walks, architecture enthusiasts

  • Terrain: Mostly paved sidewalks

  • Extras: Cafes and boutique stops

🌳 Wilson Park & Gulley Park, Fayetteville

Two community favorites with paved paths, playgrounds, and shaded walking routes, perfect for a quick escape in the city.

  • Best for: Family-friendly walks, shaded strolls

  • Terrain: Paved paths, accessible

🏙️ Downtown Bentonville

Walk the streets of Bentonville’s revitalized downtown, exploring public art, shops, and restaurants. Combine this with the Compton Gardens paths for a longer urban/nature walk.

  • Best for: Urban sightseeing, art & coffee stops

  • Terrain: Paved city streets

🏔️ Downtown Eureka Springs

Hilly streets, historic architecture, and unique shops make walking here a bit of a workout, but well worth it for the views and charm.

  • Best for: Hilly, scenic strolls with character

  • Terrain: Sidewalks, hills, cobblestone streets

  • Extras: Art galleries, boutique shops, cafes

🏞️ Nature & Beginner‑Friendly Trails

  • North Forest Trail, Bentonville: ~1.8‑mile wooded loop, quiet and peaceful.

  • Historic Van Winkle Trail, Hobbs State Park: Short, shaded trail with historical points and a tunnel.

  • Tanyard Creek Nature Trail, Bella Vista: Family-friendly loop with bridges and a waterfall.

  • Osage Park, Bentonville: Flat trails through wetlands, great for birdwatching.

  • Mt. Sequoyah Woods, Fayetteville: Short trails through an urban forest.

  • Battlefield Loop Trail, Prairie Grove: Wildflower-lined short walk with Civil War history nearby.

👋 Did we miss anything? Email us at [email protected] with your recommendations!

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