Queen Wilhelmina State Park is atop Rich Mountain, Arkansas’ second highest peak. It has a lodge, restaurant, miniature railroad, picnic areas, hiking trails, and campsites.
We visited the park in October while we explored the Talimena National Scenic Byway. The park is surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest and has access to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail. We hiked two trails and learned about the Wonder House.
Wonder House
This 1930s house gets its name from its deceptive size. From the outside it looks like a two-story rock house, but it actually has nine levels.
Spring Trail
Starting next to the Wonder House and the amphitheater, this 0.5-mile trail curves through the trees on a ridgeline and ends at the byway across from the campground.
You’ll find the spring 100 yards from the trailhead. Early settlers gathered here, and it still draws visitors today. No water was running when we visited – the stone enclosure was dry.
The path is blazed with red hiker medallions. Bizarrely, some spots looked like the trees were eating the medallions. I would rate it as a moderate hike, but on the easier side.
Reservoir Trail
This trail starts near the lodge. Turn right for the Reservoir Trail. Left leads to the Lovers Leap Trail.
Orange medallions blaze this moderate-to-strenuous path. Large slabs of rocks, steps, and shifting loose rocks make this a harder trail.
From the trailhead, continue one-third of a mile down the hill to the stone reservoir. It was part of the water system for the original 1898 hotel. Cracked stone walls are all that remain.
Both yellow flowers and yellow butterflies caught our eyes. Sunlight filtering through golden leaves hinted at the coming autumn beauty.
Nearby Attractions
Looking for more to do?
- Take a drive on the Talimena National Scenic Byway.
- Hike or camp in Talimena State Park at the Oklahoma entrance of the byway.
- Explore Mena, Arkansas – just 13 miles east of the park.