Centerpoint Trailhead - Compton, Arkansas

Brynna Dowling

We did this hike on Oct 13th( sun morning) and got to the parking lot around 8:45 and it was full, but by this time people were finishing, and were leaving. So we got a spot no problem. We started the hike around 9:00, and it was pretty shady walk the entire way mostly down hill, loose rocks, and a few downed trees but nothing you can’t step over, but well maintained trail. Gorgeous views at the top, despite the drought. The trail was busy because it was the weekend and it’s a popular hike but it’s only that way at the viewpoints. We stayed for about 15 mins taking pic and snacking and then started our hike back. Thats a pretty good incline the whole way. But it’s not that bad, if you’re accustomed to hiking. If not just take it slow or take breaks if needed.

Eric Free

A great moderate hike. Definitely need to plan for the uphill trek on the return. The views of Big Bluff and the Goat Trail are incredible.

Aimée

Great moderate trail that's worth hiking. I kept looking at photos posted on alltrails in order to try to know when would be best to go for fall foliage. It really was absolute magic. I started my hike about 1400, which made the light on the trees along the trail just glow, although the trees at the overlook haven't yet hit peak foliage, but I thought it was perfect. The centerpoint to goal trail is an out and back, the out part being downhill. It's not steadily downhill the whole way, rather, there is some decline, it levels off, decline, levels off, etc. I would say about 1 mile in is when it's the rockiest part of the trail, so as others have said, wear good footwear with ankle support, or consider hiking poles if you own them. The parking lot was mostly full when I arrived but I was able to grab a spot. The hike took me about 3 hours total, but I also stopped a lot to take pictures. If you're in shape and go slow and steady, the trek back isn't bad at all. Regardless, it's a great trail with views at the end and along the way that make it worth it.

S S

Parking at the trailhead is free but probably only has 20 spots. Parking across the road at the campsite is apparently $5, but I was lucky enough that a car was pulling out as I was pulling into the parking lot. Pretty steep, rocky area about 0.75 mile in. I’m getting older so the trail down to the bluff was more difficult for me than coming back up due to knees. I brought hiking poles, but it seems most people didn’t bring any (which…I’d highly recommend that you bring).

For those with a fear of heights the full Centerpoint to Goat trail is covered and away from any drops, and even at least half of the Goat trail would be fine, too.

I saw some people in their late 60s/early 70s and another couple well into their 70s doing the trail. No children on the trail. Everyone looked relatively fit. Loose rocks in some areas. Some people on the way back seemed to be struggling pretty hard, so I wouldn’t recommend this for those who aren’t at least relatively fit.

The trail is shared with horses and there was quite a bit of horse manure straight in the middle of the pathway at several spots.

Pack at LEAST a full liter of water. I saw someone drinking directly from the stream as I was walking past. I bet he’ll be regretting that pretty soon.

Tom James

Hiked in mid-January 2024 the day before the big snow storm rolled through the mid-south. From the trailhead down to goat trail is a steady decline, wide enough for a car. Fairly rocky so watch your footing.
Trail narrowed as it enters the woods. Because of the shade casted from the hillside, there was still snow on the ground but didn’t cause a problem. Temps started in the low 20s.
Beginning of Goat trail continues to descend but in great condition.
Once I started walking along the Bluff, panoramic views of the Buffalo River and the valley emerged. The view was epic!!
Walked around for a bit, ate my lunch and soaked up the view and the warmth of the sun against the rock face. I swear it felt 20 degrees warmer. Path stayed consistently at least 4 foot wide. If you have a fear of heights like I do, standing close to the 500’+ drop was enough to get your heart racing. Definitely keep the kids and pets at home.
The hike back was a steady 3 mile incline. With the sun setting and entering the shadows, temps dropped into the teens.
All and all, easy hike for such an amazing view.

Kathleen Divine

Here this weekend with friends. We are having an amazing time. Steve has been a great camp host and has helped us navigate the trails to get where we wanted to go.

The stalls for our horses are large and roomy and where we can see them. Have been other places where your horses may not be visible, which makes me edgy.

The scenery from the trails is breath taking. The river is clear and trash free. The only negative thing I see is how fast people drive on the roads next to camp. A speed bump or a horse crossing sign and crosswalk might be a good addition since some people are inconsiderate of horses.

Kayla Renee Moore

It's gorgeous, a bit tough on the last leg with the uneven terrain. We took a few breaks. First time hiking in 6 years. I suggest a walking stick. ♡

Hem BK

Great hiking place in Arkansas. The trails are steep down and up. The view at the end is worthy with buffalo river and big bluffs.