Hiking Whitaker Point was so nice, I hiked it twice! I went back in April of 2018 during my trip to Eureka Springs, and loved it so much I knew I had to go again during the fall. This trip back took place in early October. Not quite peak season, but still incredibly beautiful.
(P.S. If you’re curious on how to plan your road trip around peak fall foliage, check out my guide)
In this post, I’ll go over the finer details of hiking Whitaker Point. What you need to know, how to get there, what to bring, and more!
Hiking Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag)
About Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag)
Hawksbill Crag is the name of that massive rock you’ve seen in any and all photos of the Whitaker Point trail. It’s the sight of many proposals (including one during my first trip) and the opening scene to Disney’s “Tuck Everlasting.”
It’s a 2.9 mile hike that will take around 2 hours, depending on how much you love taking photos. I’d budget half a day for this, as you’ll want plenty of time to take in the view.
How to Get to Whitaker Point
Most folks drive to Whitaker Point from either Ponca or Kingston. It’ll take about 30-40 minutes. A couple of things to note; there is no cell service and the road is rough. Download your route there and back on Google Maps, and for good measure, write it down too. You’ll start getting service once you’re closer to Kingston, but it can be a little scary.
A lot of the way to the trailhead is up a gravely road that can sortakinda fit two lanes. Having driven in my little Honda Civic and a Toyota Tacoma, my vote goes to the ruck if at all possible. It gets a little dicey.
Not for nothing, the gravel road just goes on and on for what feels like awhile. If this is your first time, you may be wondering if you made a wrong turn. Rest assured, you did not. At the very end is a small parking lot, but if it’s too full, side road parking is just fine.
What You’ll Need to Hike Whitaker Point
I’d highly suggest plenty of water and a hearty snack. My latest hike was a bit crowded, so masks were worn and uh, that’ll dry you out. Water never tasted so good.
Since you’re hiking a crag, it can get rocky, so sturdy shoes are recommended especially if you have sensitive feet.
Of course, the standard for any outdoor hike, sunscreen and bug spray, go without saying.
Whitaker Point trail
There aren’t too many markers for the trail, you essentially follow the well-worn dirt path. About halfway through you’ll encounter a spring that, depending on the rain recently, could be a true waterfall.
The rest of the way is along the bluffline. It’s beautiful, but do be cautious. The drops are high and unforgiving. Proceed with caution.
Along the way to Hawksbill Crag you’ll see a lot of what I like to call “baby crags.” They’re not the crag you’re looking for, and they’re quite small, but still provide a lovely view.
Then there’s the actual crag. You’ll know it when you see it. Trust me.
Spend as much time here as you’d like. You’ve come all this way. Time to take it all in.
What to know before you go
- Co Rd 5, Kingston, AR 72742
- Open 24/7
- 2.9 mile hike
- Rated Easy to Moderate
- Trail map
- More information
Did this post inspire you to hike Whitaker Point? Let me know down below!
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Safe travels!
-Maggie
