Falls Branch Trail

During the rainy season when water is flowing over the falls, they are an awesome sight to see and even more fun for the kids to play under. It’s best to visit when there has been lots of rain—usually late spring is good—so there will be water flowing over the double falls and the creek water will be running and clear, which helps reassure that it is safe for kids to splash and swim in.   However, this is not a year-round falls, so expect it to be dry in the fall. But this is still an easy destination with the trail being under 2 miles to navigate and a good hike year-round for families.   While most of the trail and park is relatively friendly for young children, there are a few elevation changes along the trail that include steps, rocks, or drop-offs to the creek. If you want to add on a bit more hiking in the day, continue on to Slunger Creek Trail. This is a paved path, so it’s good for strollers if you want to try and get a little more outside time in and nap your baby or toddler in a stroller. There are also good benches to stop and nurse on this little trail, and it is an excellent alternative trail if you have a child or adult with a walker or wheelchair. the falls make a great reward not too far from the end. Start off the hike winding through the pine forest of the park and cross Little Canyon Creek several times. Then arrive at the falls. After a break at the falls, pause to take in the view of the lake and travel across the cool swinging foot bridge that will keep toddlers from complaining about being tired or wet.   Pack a picnic and either before or after your hike, plan to take a break at the picnic area that is conveniently located near the car and the trailhead. This is also the State Park campground, which has hookups sites, a group primitive tent area, and yurts and is close to Lake Catherine. There is also a full ADA-compliant cabin right on the waterfront for families needing wheelchair accommodation. The trail starts at the park’s main trailhead at the south end of the Camp Area C bathhouse loop, near the amphitheater. This hike is close enough to Hot Springs, AR, and Little Rock, AR, to make an easy day hike, but it can easily be combined with camping at the campground for more of a weekend adventure.