Satellite imagery via Esri World Imagery
EasyPaved

Craighead Forest Main Loop

Jonesboro, Arkansas · Craighead County

Craighead Forest Main Loop is a easy hiking trail near Jonesboro in Craighead County, Arkansas.. The surface is paved. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

🧭 Get Directions🗺️ Open in OSM
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35.77515, -90.69709
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Craighead Forest Main Loop

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High85°F
Avg Low65°F
Peak Rain Chance47%
Humidity63%
UV (avg)5
Air Quality77 · Moderate
Today
☁️
Overcast
93°/61°
🌬 12mph
↑ 6:57 AM ↓ 6:47 PM
Thu
☁️
Overcast
92°/73°
💧 1%🌬 16mph
↑ 6:57 AM ↓ 6:46 PM
Fri
🌦
Drizzle
81°/64°
💧 47%🌬 15mph
↑ 6:58 AM ↓ 6:44 PM
Sat
☁️
Overcast
78°/63°
💧 26%🌬 11mph
↑ 6:59 AM ↓ 6:43 PM
Sun
☁️
Overcast
83°/65°
💧 14%🌬 13mph
↑ 7:00 AM ↓ 6:41 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Craighead Forest Main Loop

Craighead Forest Main Loop is a easy hiking trail near Jonesboro in Craighead County, Arkansas.. The surface is paved. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

See more easy trails →All Arkansas trails →

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
    Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
  • 🩳
    Light shorts/skirt
    Loose-fit, breathable.
  • 🧢
    Wide-brimmed sun hat
    Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
  • 🕶
    Polarized sunglasses
    Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
  • ☔
    Rain jacket / shell
    47% chance of precipitation in the forecast.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • 🛍
    Dry bags for electronics
    Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Arkansas

Trail conditions in Arkansas change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Craighead Forest Main Loop?

Craighead Forest Main Loop is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on Craighead Forest Main Loop?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail (designated bike route).

What is the trail surface on Craighead Forest Main Loop?

The surface is paved. Suitable for strollers and most footwear.

When is the best time to hike Craighead Forest Main Loop?

Arkansas has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

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