A Family Guide: A Sunrise Hike to Whitaker Point - Pettigrew, Arkansas

WE RECOMMEND THIS TRIP FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN OVER THE AGE OF 8

We are excited to invite you to go on a hiking adventure to Whitaker Point with us! 

Whitaker Point Trail is an Arkansas treasure. The trail is a 2.9 mile round hike that is in the Ozark National Forest. We leave very early in the morning on the day of our trip, but the beautiful rocky viewpoint at sunrise will be worth it!

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Directions

We will be leaving from Fayetteville, AR. Click here (insert hyperlink: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arkansas/whitaker-point-trail-hawksbill-crag) and use this website as your resource. The direction button on the top of the site plugs right into Google Maps!

Trail Details: 

The hike is just under 3 miles round trip. We will hike 1.5 miles to Whitaker Point to enjoy the view for a while, then hike 1.5 miles back.  Due to hiking when it’s still dark, this is considered a medium difficulty hike. There are no permits needed for Whitaker Point. 

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Safety Considerations:

We want to make sure this trip is not only fun, but safe for you. Here are a few tips and things to remember for our hike: 

  • When driving in the dark, be sure extra lighting is working on your vehicle.

  • Have an extra flashlight for the early morning when it is still dark out.

  • Layer up properly for the cold weather.

  • Have tape or support for twisted ankles. 

  • Bring a First Aid kit for small abrasions 

  • Take a screenshot of the emergency contacts in the graphic below

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Activity Tips:

Our hope is that this trip is enjoyable and brings your family together. Here are some things we suggest to help your family experience the day to the fullest! 

  • Pack your bag and layout your clothes the night before

  • Go to bed early and get a good night's sleep. 

  • Take a 4WD vehicle. Steep dirt roads could be challenging if it’s rained recently. 

  • Eat a snack on the way.  

  • Prepare mentally for challenges and tough situations. 

  • Maintain a safe distance from edges (especially with small children!)

  • Let a friend or family member know your plans and share your location and ETA so they know to call the authorities in the event they do not hear from you upon arrival. Check in with them when you make it to your location. 

We exist to help people engage with one another on a deeper level in a distracted world and we are so excited to help you do that through trips like this. We hope to see you on our Sunrise Hike adventure!