Picture yourself this summer, exploring the natural beauty that waits in the Ozark Mountains. With activities ranging from biking, hiking, swimming, horseback riding, scenic drives and zip lining, your summer calendar will be full of fun outings. Whether it is your first time to the area or you are returning for a visit, you will be in for a treat for your summer getaway.
Zipline Through the Ozark Mountains
For an adventurous outing for the whole family, spend the day 200 plus feet in the air zip lining through the Ozarks. Ozark Mountain Ziplines is located right in the heart of the Ozark Mountains of Eureka Springs. Soar through the treetops on cables 1800 feet long experiencing the nature and wildlife unique to this region. Ozark Mountain Ziplines is open daily with the exception of Wednesdays from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Rates are $89.00 plus tax per person with group rates and special discounts applied to groups of ten or more. Tours run rain or shine.
Hiking the Ozarks
Hiking the Ozarks is great for all skill levels. From half-mile flat trails to 1000 foot plus climbs, there is a trail for everyone. The longest trail in the Ozarks is the Ozark Highlands Trail with 200 plus miles. The trail stretches from Lake Ft. Smith State Park, through the Ozark National Forest and ending along the Buffalo River. Shores Lake-White Rock Loop and the Redding-Spy Rock Loop are just a few of the trails that connect to the Ozark Highlands Trail.
Mountain Biking the Ozark Mountains
The rugged terrain of the Ozark Mountains makes for an adventurous ride for mountain bikers of all experience levels. The mountains provide rocky twists and turns, steep inclines and descents and creek crossings. Beginners should try the Bench Trail located in Mt Nebo State Park. This trail is four miles in length and offers level paths and scenic views of historic springs and plenty of sights and sounds of nature. More experienced riders should check out Vista Point Trail. This trail is eight miles in length and rated moderate to strenuous in terms of difficulty. There are two overlooks to be found along the way. The trail runs through Devil’s Den State Park.
Tour Ozark Caves
Did you know that the Ozarks are home to thousands of caves, many of which are available to tour? Onyx Cave, located in Eureka Springs, offers views of the stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. The cave is open year round for self-guided tours. The Onyx Cave offers easy paths for walking and remains at 57 degrees year round. Also located in the Ozarks are the Mystic Caverns and the Crystal Dome Caverns. To see both caverns, tours last around one hour and twenty minutes and leave every thirty five minutes. Tours are led by trained escorts. Sights to be seen along the tour include the eight-story dome, the pipe organ and the story of the spider monkey.
Stay at Arsenic & Old Lace
To complete your vacation to the Ozarks this summer, check out availability at Arsenic and Old Lace bed and breakfast. Located in Eureka Springs Arkansas, this bed and breakfast offers luxurious accommodations in a beautiful mansion set in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. Experience a stay at a local bed and breakfast offering a more personal experience than that of staying at a large hotel. Innkeepers are on site to attend to every need and a complimentary gourmet breakfast is served daily. There are five guest suites available and all the comforts and amenities to make your stay feel just like home.
And for many more things to do in Eureka Springs, be sure to download our free Vacation Guide!
Photo courtesy of Thomas and Dianne Jones
