Hot Springs National Park holds many gems but Gulpha Gorge is quite the emerald treasure. Take a break from strolling the shops on Central Avenue to reconnect with nature around this beautiful area. Let's explore this trail and immerse ourselves in all of gorge's gorgeous greenery.

A refreshing paradise isn't far away when you're in Hot Springs.

Much of the city overlaps with the Hot Springs National Park. Pockets of refreshing nature, like the Gulpha Gorge, can be found all throughout the town. This nearly 6,000-acre park was actually the first national park in the United States (we have the receipts right here if you'd like more information.

Address: 101 Reserve Street, Hot Springs, AR 71901

The gorge has been an inviting spot for centuries.

The clear water of Gulpha Creek reflects the greenery surrounding the stream making it a refreshing stop for anyone stopping by. Native Americans believed the water in Hot Springs had mystical healing powers (which if you've ever taken a bath at the Quapaw Bathhouse down the road then you know it's difficult to disagree with this belief). By 1926 the visitors to the Gulpha Gorge were so numerous that the city had to donate more land to the campground.

Gulpha Gorge includes more than just the creek.

The Gulpha Gorge Trail is a family-friendly hike through the dense forest of the national park. The hike is only 1.2-miles long but does start off steep. Families (including four-legged members) will enjoy this shorter Hot Springs trail.

The trail leads to even more jaw-dropping greenery.

The Gulpha Gorge Trail leads to some awesome views from the mountain as well as connects to other trails in the area. Hot Springs Mountain Trail and Goat Rock Trail can continue your journey though the greener side of Hot Springs.

The adventure doesn't have to end after your hike however.

In a few months the gorge will no longer be as brilliantly green, but not to fret.

You'll be quickly rewarded with an explosion of other colors during the fall. The foliage is downright breathtaking.

We do love the bright greens of this area during spring and summer but a trip to Gulpha Gorge is beautiful any time of year!

Have you hiked or camped at Gulpha Gorge? Share your experience with us in the comments below and add your photos to our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.