Whitaker Point, also known as Hawksbill Crag, is a rock overhang in Northwest Arkansas offering a spectacular view of the Ozark National Forest. This site is one of Arkansas’ most-photographed spots, and it is no surprise why. This spot is an absolute Arkansas gem! Thousands of visitors every year hike up the Whitaker Point trail to the beautiful rocky viewpoint. Find out everything to expect in this guide to hiking Whitaker Point or Hawksbill Crag.
Overview of Whitaker Point Trail Hike
Whitaker Point Trail (Hawksbill Crag) is a 2.9 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located in the Ozark National Forest that features a waterfall and a spectacular viewpoint. The elevation gain is just over 400 feet. The trail is rated as moderate and is accessible year-round. Additionally, dogs are allowed on the trail.
Although the trail is rated as moderate, I found the trail to be fairly easy. The trail is well-marked, and it look me 30 minutes to summit to the view point, and 20 minutes to descend.
This is a very popular trail thus the best times to visit (and the best time for photography) is around sunrise and sunset. The hike starts in a descent, and then evens out. Eventually, you’ll reach the viewpoint where a rock formation juts out from the cliff. The crag overlooks Whitaker Creek and a huge valley stretching as far as you can see.
Overall, the hike is not difficult with a very rewarding view!
Getting to the Trailhead
The Whitaker Point trailhead is accessible by car only. Many visitors have mentioned that the drive is difficult as the road is not paved and rough. Many even mentioned that the drive is only doable with four-wheel drive. However, I visited in June 2020 in a Toyota Camry, and made the drive on the gravel road perfectly fine. Once you leave the main road, it is about a 20 minute drive on the unpaved path. Although the road is bumpy, the key is to focus on the road and drive slowly. The online reviews had discouraged me to visit in a sedan, however I am glad to have ventured out.
There are two country roads that lead to the trailhead: one from the north and the other from the south. If you approach from the north, there is an uphill section which is quite steep, although still doable even without a 4WD. If you’re nervous, the road from the south doesn’t have as steep of a grade.
I took the route coming from the south, and did not have difficulty driving on those roads. Coming from Fayetteville, Arkansas, I passed through Boston, and then took Highway 16 and Cave Mountain Road all the way to the trailhead. Don’t turn on Madison 3605 as it a rougher country road. As long as there hasn’t been heavy rain or snow recently, you should be just fine getting up there!
Upon arriving to the trailhead you’ll find a small parking area. During warm weekend days, you might have to park along the road, but be sure not to block traffic. There is a large sign that describes the hike, but the actual trailhead is across the road from the sign. The trail is marked by a white sign.
Tip: Cell signal may be spotty in the Ozark National Forest. Go ahead and download an offline map of the area on Google Maps for navigation.
Hiking Whitaker Point Trail
The hike starts with a descent, and there is little incline throughout the trail until the very end. The ascent to the viewpoint is not difficult, and the path is well-kept. Throughout the hike, there is a canopy of trees that provides shade and relief from the heat.
About a mile into the hike, you will cross a small stream and notice a fork, and you will have to make a choice. Go left and ascend to visit Whitaker Point or go right and visit the waterfall as well. Both will take you to the crag.
On your way to Whitaker Point, there’s also a lookout right before the actual viewing spot that is much smaller, but it would convince you that it’s the main point as you approach it. Just go about 250 more feet, and you’ll run into the real Hawkbill Crag. Enjoy the view from Whitaker Point and take as long as you want up there. Follow the same path you took back down.
Note: Use extreme caution while hiking along the cliff. While the crag is safe to stand and sit on, there is a small protrusion that extends even further. Avoid getting too close to the edge, and be responsible.
Final Notes
Overall, I really enjoyed hiking the Whitaker Point Trail to Hawksbill Crag. I found the hike to be easy with beautiful viewpoints along the way. Don’t let other reviews of the rough drive discourage you from visiting.
Additionally, I would bring water, comfortable layers, and pack some food to enjoy a picnic on the crag. Take time to appreciate the grandeur around you. I started the hike in the late-afternoon and lingered there until almost sunset. Once the sun was behind me, there was a beautiful glow that was cast upon the forest. It was quite a sight to see!
Looking for other trails near Whitaker Point? Check out my other guide on the most scenic hikes in the Ozark National Forest!
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