Arkansas Unveils Maumelle Pinnacles Outdoor Master Plan

New initiative aims to expand recreation and protect natural resources in Central Arkansas.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:00pm

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Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced the Maumelle Pinnacles Master Plan, a long-term vision to connect over 24,000 acres of outdoor spaces from downtown Little Rock to Lake Sylvia, including popular destinations like Pinnacle Mountain State Park. The project is part of the state's Natural State Initiative to grow Arkansas' outdoor economy and improve access to natural resources.

Why it matters

The Maumelle Pinnacles project represents a major investment in expanding recreational opportunities and protecting key natural assets in Central Arkansas, including the Lake Maumelle watershed, a vital drinking water source for the region. By connecting trails and access points, the plan aims to drive tourism and economic growth while preserving sensitive environmental areas.

The details

The master plan outlines a network of new trails, access points, and outdoor experiences across a vast area encompassing Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Rattlesnake Ridge, Blue Mountain, and Lake Maumelle. The project is a partnership between the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, Central Arkansas Water, The Nature Conservancy, and other local and regional organizations. Officials say work is already underway on initial trail development and connectivity projects.

  • The Maumelle Pinnacles Master Plan was announced on March 31, 2026 by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders.

The players

Sarah Huckabee Sanders

The Governor of Arkansas who announced the Maumelle Pinnacles Master Plan as part of the state's Natural State Initiative.

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

A state agency partnering on the Maumelle Pinnacles project to expand outdoor recreation opportunities.

Central Arkansas Water

A regional water utility that is collaborating to protect the Lake Maumelle watershed as part of the master plan.

The Nature Conservancy

A non-profit environmental organization participating in the Maumelle Pinnacles initiative to preserve sensitive natural areas.

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What they’re saying

“The Maumelle Pinnacles Master Plan is an exciting opportunity to grow Arkansas' outdoor economy and improve access to our natural resources for residents and visitors alike.”

— Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Governor of Arkansas

What’s next

State officials say work on the Maumelle Pinnacles Master Plan is already underway, with new trail development and connectivity projects currently in progress.

The takeaway

The Maumelle Pinnacles project represents a comprehensive, collaborative approach to expanding outdoor recreation, protecting sensitive environmental areas, and driving economic growth in Central Arkansas. By connecting trails and access points across thousands of acres, the state aims to position Arkansas as a premier outdoor destination while preserving vital natural resources like the Lake Maumelle watershed.