Autumn is arguably the best season for spending some quality time with your loved ones, especially if you're in Arkansas. With the warm colors of the leaves, fresh air, and pleasant temperatures, there are endless opportunities to step out and embrace the great outdoors. In this blog, we'll discuss some of the best outdoor activities that families can participate in during the fall in Arkansas.
1. Hiking: The Natural State boasts a variety of hiking trails that are perfect for family excursions. Take the whole family on a trek up Pinnacle Mountain for breathtaking views, or hike the Cedar Falls Trail at Petit Jean State Park, where you'll see stunning waterfalls and even a natural cave formation. The the moderate to easy level trails in the Ozark Mountains and Ouachita Mountains are some of the region's most beautiful, taking you through lush forests, nature reserves, and scenic mountains.
2. Zip lining: Strap on a harness and soar through the foliage on a zip line ride! Many locations in Arkansas offer zip lining, including Ozark Mountains, where the fall colors provide an incredibly serene backdrop from above. Some popular zip line locations include Eureka Springs, Hot Springs, and Fort Smith, where experienced guides will help ensure your safety and provide an unforgettable experience.
3. Canoeing/Kayaking: What could be better than exploring beautiful waterways while enjoying some family bonding time at the same time? Arkansas's rivers and lakes offer an abundance of prime spots for canoeing and kayaking. Some favorite locations include the Buffalo National River, which flows through the Ozarks, providing a diverse landscape of mountains, valleys, and plenty of natural beauty, and Lake Ouachita, a crystal-clear body of water, perfect for paddling among the fall foliage.
4. Pumpkin Patches: When Fall arrives, it's time for pumpkin patches and hayrides! What activities bring out the best of family bonding than choosing the perfect pumpkins and picking apples together? Picking your own pumpkins from local patches is one of the best ways to show kids where their food comes from, and picking the perfect pumpkin together can get kid’s creativity going and lead to wonderful memories. Some great pumpkin patches for families include Motley’s in Little Rock and Bo Brooks’ Farm in Roland.
5. Camping: With mild fall temperatures, camping is an activity that is sure to provide plenty of outdoor fun in Arkansas. Many state parks offer campsites, including popular locations such as Lake Catherine State Park, Mount Magazine State Park, and Devil’s Den State Park. Roasting marshmallows around the campfire, strolling through the forest, and enjoying scenic views all provides memorable experiences for the whole family.
Autumn in Arkansas provides families with many exciting opportunities to get outside, enjoy the natural beauty, and participate in activities that are sure to bring the whole group together. Whether it's hiking, zip lining, canoeing/kayaking, visiting pumpkin patches, or camping, this fall there is something for everyone. So, pack the cooler and grab the camera, it’s time to hit the outdoors!
