Summer time in the Natural State sounds like it should be fun, right? There are many who struggle to find something to do. I've heard numerous complaints before saying that their is just "simply nothing to do in boring ol' Arkansas." As an avid outdoors woman, I laugh at this.
I've compiled a list of, what I considered to be, some pretty cool spots you should try and check out this summer if you live, or find yourself in the Natural State.
1. Petit Jean State Park
Located an hour or so away from Little Rock, this State Park has many different trails to choose from. Cedar Falls is the most popular due to the magnificent waterfall at the end. The hike is 2.0 miles round trip and on the way down it's fine. Coming back up is a different story completely. After good periods of rain, the falls is usually decent and even when it's small it's still a great site. Swimming in the pool is not off-limits, but should be cautioned. Seven Hollows is also another trail located on the mountain just down the road a bit. It's a bit longer, being 4.2 miles, and takes a bit more time but with a natural land bridge, waterfall, and decent bluffs it's worth the time and effort.
2. Lost Valley
As you might can tell, I'm a sucker for a waterfall so of course this one includes some. Lost Valley is located in the Ozark National Forrest near the Buffalo National River (another great spot in itself), which is a decent 3 or so hour drive from Little Rock. Lost Valley is 2.3 miles round trip and includes several waterfalls and caves to capture and explore. It's one of the most popular trails in Arkansas.
3. Emerald Park
If you live near or in Central Arkansas, chances are you've been or at least of heard of this one. Located in Little Rock behind Pulaski Tech, Emerald Park is neat place that's local. Whether you want a simple, relaxing hike or a just a place to go hammock and hang with friends, Emerald Park is perfect. Right next to the Arkansas River, there are plenty of views of downtown, pinnacle mountain, and other surrounding areas.
4. Bridal Veil Falls (Greers Ferry Lake)
Located an hour and twenty-five minutes away from Little Rock, Greers Ferry Lake located in Heber Springs and is home to many adventures. One of them being Bridal Veil Falls. A beautiful waterfall (after decent rain) followed by a couple of branching trails that follow up river and down below to behind falls make up this area. Take caution when going up or down, seeing as a couple of the trails are steep. Along with this trail and the lake itself, there are two Sugar Loaf Mountains that are both worth the climb. One is just outside of town and the other is located in the middle of the lake, requiring a boat.
5. Pinnacle Mountain
Located in West Little Rock, Pinnacle Mountain is probably the most common place to go and hike if you're looking for something close. Like everything else, there are several different trails to choose from. Two of the most popular being the East and West sides of the mountain. Either trail include great views of the Arkansas River and/or the hills of West Little Rock. There are also plenty of biking trails and rivers that run in and through the mountain itself.
So if you find yourself this summer, trying to figure something new and different to do with your friends. Pick one of these places or find your own cool place, pack a lunch, load up in a vehicle and go. It's called the Natural State for a reason.
