Posts Tagged ‘Lake Leatherwood’

Lake Leatherwood, Eureka Springs

Friday, July 15th, 2011

Our Eureka Springs Bed and Breakfast is surrounded by opportunities for outdoor recreation. Eureka Springs is nestled in the Ozark Mountains, enormous Beaver Lake is a short drive from town, and the Buffalo River National Park is less than an hour from our inn. Many of our guests spend a good deal of time exploring the natural beauty of the area on foot, by bike, and in boats.

One of our favorite spots is Lake Leatherwood Park, which is just a couple miles west of our Eureka Springs Bed and Breakfast.

Lake Leatherwood Dam Bridge

Take in great views from the Lake Leatherwood Dam Bridge.

Fifteen miles of trails traverse this 1,600-acre municipal park, suitable for walking, running, or biking. Trails run along creeks, pass by picturesque historic stone walls, and lead over small bridges. Be sure to walk out on the Lake Leatherwood Dam Bride, pictured above. The dam is one of the largest native limestone (hand-cut) dams in the country. It’s easy to find solitude in Lake Leatherwood Park, close to town though it is.

The 85-acre spring fed lake is a lovely place to fish for large mouth bass, channel catfish, blue gill and more. Boating is allowed, but thanks to a ‘No Wake” requirement for all motorized boats, the lake feels peaceful. Paddle boats and fishing boats are available for rental. Designated swimming areas provide a safe place to cool off on hot days.

After a long day hiking, biking, or boating in the Lake Leatherwood area, return to our Eureka Springs Bed and Breakfast for a cool drink and tasty home made treat on the porch. Then take advantage of the fact that the inn is so close to the Eureka Springs historic downtown area, and stroll to town (as long as you don’t mind walking up and down a few hills). Several good Eureka Springs restaurants are less than a mile from our romantic inn: Casa Colina, DeVito’s, the New Delhi Cafe, and more.

Hikes Near Eureka Springs

Wednesday, March 16th, 2011

Spring Break is a great time to explore the trails in and around Eureka Springs. There are a number of hikes less than an hour’s drive from our Eureka Springs Bed and Breakfast; indeed, it takes 10 minutes to get to Lake Leatherwood from here, and 30 minutes to get to Hobbs State Park.

The hikes range from short walks on historic trails to long explores filled with spectacular views. Whatever your fitness and comfort level, you are sure to find a hike near Eureka Springs that feels just right.

Good hikes in and near Eureka Springs:

  • Lake Leatherwood, Eureka Springs. Situated on the western edge of town, this park has about 15 miles of trails. A trail 4-miles long circles the lake and is a great place to jog or enjoy a sunny day. Look for historic stone walls and bridges while venturing on the other trails that traverse this 1,600-acre park.
  • Historic Van Winkle Trail, Hobbs State Park. Walk 1.5 miles to the 19th Van Winkle lumber mill and home. Trail markers provide information about Peter Van Winkle. It’s a great way to get some exercise and learn something about the history of the area.
  • Shaddox Hollow Nature Trail, Hobbs State Park. 1.5 miles along a ridge and down into Shaddox Hollow. There are pretty limestone bluffs and plenty of plants native to the Ozarks. This hike isn’t long, but has some steep sections.
  • Pigeon Roost Trail, Hobbs State Park. There is a 4-mile loop and an 8.5-mile loop. Enjoy views of Beaver Lake from the ridge and keep an eye out for wild turkey.

Fuel your day hike with a sumptuous breakfast at our Eureka Springs Lodging. Soak in a private whirlpool for two once you return, then enjoy a refreshing drink on the porch overlooking our quiet yard.

Enjoy a day hike at Lake Leatherwood.


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