Hot Springs National Park guide · 1 min read
Hot Springs Mountain Tower
Hot Springs Mountain Tower stands on Hot Springs Mountain, reached by Hot Springs Mountain Drive.
The tower rises 216 feet, and its top sits 1,256 feet above sea level. It is visible from Central Avenue as you drive north through downtown Hot Springs, so it is easy to spot before you reach the mountain itself.
An elevator carries visitors the full 216 feet to the top. The upper deck is open to the air, so you can step outside and look over 140 square miles of countryside. From this height you can see the whole park, a long stretch of the Ouachita Mountains, and the city of Hot Springs below.
The lower observation deck is enclosed and air conditioned, and it holds exhibits on the history of the park and the local area. The tower has a longer past than its current appearance suggests. It was first built of wood in 1877. In 1982 it was rebuilt in steel with an elevator, and the current tower has both open and enclosed observation decks.
A gift shop at the base of the tower sells a range of souvenirs as well as healthy snacks and sandwiches. The tower is operated as a concession within the park, and the gift shop is a good stop before or after your ride up.
