LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced today the Maumelle Pinnacles Master Plan, a landmark effort to expand outdoor recreation opportunities while protecting one of Central Arkansas’ most important natural resources.
The Maumelle Pinnacles project spans more than 24,000 acres stretching from downtown Little Rock to Lake Maumelle and beyond, and represents a cornerstone of the Governor’s Natural State Initiative—a strategic effort to grow Arkansas’ outdoor economy, enhance quality of life, and elevate the state’s national profile as a premier outdoor destination.
“The Maumelle Pinnacles project builds on what makes Arkansas special,” said Governor Sanders. “We are expanding access to the outdoors, supporting our growing outdoor economy, and making it easier for more Arkansans to experience the Natural State.”
The master plan creates a long-term vision to connect Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Rattlesnake Ridge, Blue Mountain, Lake Maumelle, and surrounding conservation lands through a network of trails, access points, and outdoor experiences. The project is designed to balance increased recreation with careful stewardship of the areas like the Lake Maumelle watershed, a critical drinking water source for Central Arkansas.
The Maumelle Pinnacles initiative is a collaborative partnership between the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, Central Arkansas Water, The Nature Conservancy, and numerous local and regional partners.
“This is a prime example of how public-private partnerships can deliver meaningful results for Arkansans,” said Shea Lewis, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. “We are creating new opportunities for people to get outside and connect with The Natural State while ensuring these landscapes are protected for future generations.”
As the population of Arkansas and the capital city grows, this long-term vision plan will ensure that conservation, recreation and quality of life amenities for Arkansans and visitors remains a priority.
Implementation of the plan is already underway, with new trail development and connectivity projects advancing across the region.
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