Hot Springs Mountain Tower – Gulpha Gorge Campground loop from Hot Springs
Hot Springs Mountain Tower – Gulpha Gorge Campground loop from Hot Springs
3.2
(7)
38
riders
Hot Springs Mountain Tower – Gulpha Gorge Campground loop from Hot Springs
01:30
25.7km
410m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: March 21, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 12.2 km for 54 m
After 25.6 km for 54 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
4.40 km
West Mountain Trailhead (West) – Hot Springs National Park
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
12.2 km
Hot Springs Mountain Tower
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
14.8 km
Arlington Hotel
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
21.2 km
Gulpha Gorge Campground
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
24.6 km
Landmark Plaza
Highlight • Monument
25.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
14.3 km
4.87 km
3.50 km
2.72 km
278 m
Surfaces
14.7 km
10.8 km
202 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (300 m)
Lowest point (160 m)
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Weather
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Thursday 18 June
33°C
21°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a rewarding road cycling experience with panoramic views, the Hot Springs Mountain Tower – Gulpha Gorge Campground loop from Hot Springs is definitely worth your time. This moderate 16.0 miles (25.7 km) route packs in 1342 feet (409 metres) of climbing, taking about 1 hours and 29 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for cyclists with good fitness who want to combine a scenic workout with a visit to a historic landmark.
What to expect on Hot Springs Mountain Tower – Gulpha Gorge Campground loop from Hot Springs
This loop takes you through the beautiful forested areas of the Ouachita Mountains on mostly well-paved mountain roads. You'll experience a mix of progressive inclines and descents, with a notable climb up Hot Springs Mountain itself. The highlight is undoubtedly the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, where you can pause to enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape, including the Diamond Lakes area and the city of Hot Springs. While the route is generally smooth, be prepared for a steady effort on the climbs, making it best suited for cyclists comfortable with moderate ascents.
Planning your visit
Cyclists are permitted on all paved roads within Hot Springs National Park, making access straightforward. The route utilizes scenic drives that were originally carriage roads from the 1880s, adding a historical touch to your ride. While the surfaces are mostly well-paved, always be aware that some park routes might have unpaved segments. Consider starting your ride earlier in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially fewer vehicles, especially during peak season.
Trail details
- Distance: 16.0 miles (25.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 1342 feet (409 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 29 minutes
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