Lincoln Lake, located in Lincoln, Arkansas, is an out of the way surprise. Located off Route 62 in Lincoln, this lake offers hiking, fishing, mountain biking, rock climbing and bouldering. It is owned and operated by the City of Lincoln. The area is free to use, overnight camping is prohibited.
Fishing
Bass, crappie, catfish and other sport fish are plentiful in Lincoln Lake. Fishing is by boat or from the shore. To get to the main part of the lake from the parking area, one must drive across the stream. The remains of a washed out bridge can be seen from the parking lot. Lincoln Lake is a 400 acre lake. It was once the water supply for the City of Lincoln.
Rock Climbing and Bouldering
Lincoln Lake offers amazing bluffs to climb. Unlike many areas in Northwest Arkansas, these bluffs are more stable than the usual sandstone. Many rock climbers call this area “Little Devil’s Den” as the bluff lines rival those found at Devil’s Den State Park. Four walls or bluffs are of note. The first is just across the stream from the parking lot. This is the easiest of the bluffs to access. The other two bluffs are located off the trails. Two are off of the Gorge Loop Trail which is about a 4 mile hike in from the parking area and the other is off of the Piney Loop Trail, also about 4 miles in.
Mountain Biking
There are seven miles of mountain biking trails at Lincoln Lake. The trails vary in difficulty and there is a trail for all skill levels. The views are amazing. From magnificent bluff lines to views of the lake, there is plenty of scenery to enjoy. The trails are marked and a map is located in the parking area. The biking trails are the same trails used by hikers. Horses and motorized vehicles are not allowed on the trails at Lincoln Lake.
Hiking
Hikers can plan a day exploring Lincoln Lake. There are several trails that will take you along the bluffs and around the lake area. Eagle View Loop starts at the end of the parking area near the stream. This is a 4 mile trail (one way). Amazing views are found at the Lake View Overlook, the Upper and Lower Eagle View Loops and the Gorge Loop. Rock Climbers frequent the bluffs near the Gorge Loop and it makes for interesting viewing.
The Piney Loop is 4 miles long. This is an out and back trail with a loop at the end. Total mileage to complete the trail out and back is 8 miles. To access this trailhead, exit the parking lot on foot and go back out to Washington County Road 669 and turn right. The trailhead is just across the stream. This trail will take you past the north entrance (which I have attempted to find without luck three times) and to the Dam Overlook. The overlook offers amazing views of Lincoln Lake. From the Dam Overlook you come to the Piney Loop and the fourth bluff area.
Important Information
Lincoln Lake is in a remote area. Cell phone service is unreliable at best. There are no restroom facilities at the lake, it is a rustic area. Allow for a full day to hike the trails. Bring plenty of water and snacks. The bluff areas are slippery after a rain. Always let someone know where you are hiking. Never hike or go bouldering alone.
Directions
Lake Lincoln is off of Route 62 in Lincoln Arkansas. 540 is the nearest interstate. Take 540 to the Farmington exit and head west for about 10 miles. Make a right turn onto North West Street (Washington County Road 669), there is a sign for Lincoln Lake. Follow CR 669 for a couple of miles. The entrance will be on your right. Go slow; it is easy to miss as the entrance is on the bottom of a downhill curve. There is a gas station in Lincoln just before you turn onto CR 669. Fill up here if you need to. A car wash is just down the road, they only accept cash payments.
Enjoy the rustic beauty of Lincoln Lake. Take a day to fish, hike, or perhaps explore the bluffs. This is an out of the way location that is worth taking the time to find.
