Look no further than the picturesque Ozarks Mountains for amazing views, an abundance of outdoor recreation and activities to thrill all adventure seekers. If you’ve never visited the region before, we’ve made this small guide to the best of the Ozarks to help you get started. From hiking and ziplining to horseback riding and railroad rides, the Ozark Mountains has it all.
Find your way to Ozark Mountain Ziplines in Eureka Springs for an adrenaline rush like no other. Ozark Mountain Ziplines offers 10 ziplines, 1 suspended sky bridge and tree platforms for taking in the mountainous views. Imagine zipping through the trees at up to 200 feet high in the air. Each tour takes 10 guests and runs rain or shine. Guests must be at least 3 years of age and with a weight under 275lbs. Prices are $89.00 per person. Ozark Mountain Ziplines have seasonal hours and are currently closed, but they will reopen for a new season in March.
Located just 20 miles from Eureka Springs is Roaring River State Park. The park gets its name from the Roaring River which is the 20th largest spring in Missouri. An average of 20 million gallons of water flows from the river each day. In addition to the miles of hiking trails, swimming pool, and scenic picnic areas, the park is regularly stocked with trout making it a hotspot for fishing in the Ozarks.
For the biggest and best of outdoor shopping in the Ozarks, check out the Bass Pro Shop in Springfield, Missouri. This shop is the largest Bass Pro in the United States at 500,000 square feet. Kids of all ages will love to see the 7 fish tanks, the National Sporting Arms Museum and the Archery Hall of Fame. For more information about the store including kids events and workshops, check their website for updates.
From May through October, enjoy the sights of the Ozarks from the Belle of the Ozarks in Eureka Springs. This 12-mile cruise of Beaver Lake lasts around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Passengers aboard the boat will enjoy beautiful views while the captain gives information about the history of the area. This is a great outing for groups or just a romantic trip out for 2. Tickets are $23.00 for adults and $9.00 for children under 12.
The Branson Scenic Railway is another great way to take in all the beauty of the mountains. Passengers will ride 40 miles round trip through the Ozark foothills. Before you board the train, check out the historic depot and gift shop. The railway also offers a dinner train departing at 5:00 pm through the first week in November. Enjoy a 4-course candlelight dinner as you ride on vintage cars from the 40’s and 50’s.
There is an abundance of hiking through the Ozark Mountains, and a great place to start is the Buffalo National River Area. Beginner hikers will enjoy the ease of the Koen Interpretive Trail. The trail is wheelchair accessible and has plenty of benches to rest and simply take in the surrounding beauty. The area is also home to the 3 mile Lost Valley Trail. The trail passes by a natural bridge and ends in a cave with a 35-foot tall waterfall.
If you prefer mountain biking, check out Devil’s Den State Park. The park’s Fossil Flats Multi-Use trail runs for 5.5 miles. Beginners beware on this trail as there are some climbs and areas of difficulty along the way. There is a beautiful bluff to stop and check out the views. The trail can be busy on the weekends with both hikers and bikers, but it’s worth it for all you get to experience.
During your stay in the Ozarks, we would love to host you on your getaway here at Arsenic and Old Lace. We offer 5 guest rooms and a gourmet breakfast served each morning. Our location is just 2 short blocks from all the action of Eureka Springs downtown Historic District. For reservation information, please give us a call at 479-253-5454.
