Petit Jean State Park - Bear Cave Trail

"Adopt the pace of nature; her secret is patience" - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Difficulty - ✹ (out of 5)

Scenic Beauty - ✰✰✰ (out of 5)

Directions - Click Here

This is a fun little trail with lots of interesting rock formations and caves.  The length can be a little over a mile or as little as a half mile depending on whether you start at the Mather Lodge or the parking area just off Petit Jean Mountain Road.  

Inside Info - What this hike lacks in length it more than makes up for in scenery and unique rock and boulder formations.  This is not strenuous in any way and can be enjoyed by young and old alike and no real level of fitness is needed.  We parked in the small parking area just off the main Petit Jean park road and doing this lets you start in the main loop where the most interesting sites are.  The pictures posted below will tell the tale of what is offered in this trail and no extra explanation is needed.  I actually wish I had better knowledge of geology to understand the history of this area but maybe it's best appreciated for the natural beauty itself. There are no instructions or help needed to stay on the trail.   Just take your time and soak it all in.  

Final Word -   Easy.  Interesting.  Picturesque.  FUN!   This is a short little enjoyable hike that must be included in any trip to Petit Jean state park.  However be advised that, like most parts of Petit Jean, it can be very crowded on nice weather days. 

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Trailhead Pic

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