In just a few short weeks, the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas will come alive with color. Arkansas fall foliage first appears in late September and the beginning of October when the temperature changes. The colors stay at their peak for a few weeks making the trees a beautiful sight to see. Arrays of reds and yellows, purples and oranges can be seen during the fall season across the Natural State. There are 52 parks in Arkansas but check out this list of the 4 best Arkansas State parks for viewing the fall foliage. And the best part about it is that they are all within an hour and a half of our property.
DEVIL’S DEN STATE PARK
In West Fork, Arkansas lies the 2,500-acre Devil’s Den State Park. The park is in the southwestern part of the Ozark Mountains and offers visitors 64 miles of trails. The Yellow Rock Trail is especially beautiful this time of year with the Yellow Rock Bluff at the end boasting stunning mountain views. On site is also a visitor’s center for all the information you’ll need for a wonderful visit to the region. Devil's Den is great for a day trip at only 62 miles from Eureka Springs.
WITHROW SPRINGS STATE PARK
Withrow Springs State Park is located 20 miles south of Eureka Springs at around a 30-minute drive. This 786-acre park offers visitors hiking trails, a natural spring and spots along the War Eagle Creek for fishing and canoeing. This park is the perfect destination during the fall season because of its location in the Ozarks with picturesque views of the mountains and valleys. To take in all the beauty of the park, take an afternoon and hike the park’s War Eagle Trail. This 2-mile trail opens up to a scenic overlook on top of a 150-foot high bluff. The trail is moderate in difficulty and can take around 1 hour to complete.
LAKE LEATHERWOOD CITY PARK
With over 21 miles of trails to explore, add Lake Leatherwood City Park on your list of must-see attractions for fall foliage. In addition to hiking, visitors to the park can see the beautiful change in the leaves by biking or boating. The park totals 1600-acres and can be found right here in Eureka Springs. Many of the structures found in the park were built in the 1940’s landing this park on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors to this park will not only fall in love with the sights to behold, but there is a variety of wildlife to be found here too including white-tailed deer, bobcats and over 120 species of birds.
HOBBS STATE PARK
Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area in Rogers, Arkansas is located about 23 miles from Eureka Springs. With over 12,000 acres of land, there’s no shortage of areas to view the autumn scenery. Whether you prefer to drive or hike, Hobbs State Park offers all that and more. Mountain bikers and horseback riders are also welcome here at the park so imagine all the possibilities of viewing the changing leaves. Out of all the trails to hike when visiting Hobbs State Park, hikers of all experience will enjoy the Pigeon Roost Trail. The trail is fairly easy to walk and is mostly wide gravel pathways. And don’t forget to check out the Beaver Lake Overlook on the Dry Creek Loop.
Don’t Miss a Visit to Any of These Parks in Arkansas!
A visit to Arkansas wouldn’t be complete without a stay at a charming bed and breakfast. At Arsenic and Old Lace in Eureka Springs, we are here to handle all the details of your stay so you can focus on relaxing, unwinding and letting everyday stresses just melt away. If it’s your first time to the region, innkeepers Doug and Beverly know all the best shopping and dining to recommend. If you are a returning visitor, grab a glass of wine or a mug of coffee and take in all the views from the wrap around veranda. To book one of our five beautiful guest suites, please call 479-253-5454 and we’ll be glad to help you reserve the perfect room.
Photo courtesy of Doug Wertman