Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Waterfall Weekends

Let's talk about waterfalls in Arkansas; they are in abundance and very few people know just how many are flowing in this gorgeous Midwestern State.  One whole day of exploring in the Ozark National Forest and the Buffalo River area and we were definitely impressed with the waterfalls we were able to enjoy.  This is just the start of them too; with waterfalls located all over the state, it's time we head back to do more exploring!

Falling Water Falls





Haw Creek Falls



Triple Falls (aka Twin Falls)




Until Next Time Arkansas
Shona

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Monday, October 7, 2019

Kings Bluff and Pedestal Rocks

If you are looking for trail that will give you views for miles, this is it.  King Bluff and Pedestal Rock trails are both loop trails that connect so you can do both of them if you are up for 4.6 mile hike.  We only hiked Kings Bluff (about 2 miles) because we were on a waterfall search for this adventure.  Once we reached the bluff, you could hear the waterfall and even though it wasn't flowing much because of lack of rainfall, it was still a win-win for us.  The views here were gorgeous.  I'd rate this as a mild to moderate hike as there is some incline to the trails and rocky points to cross over.  Hiking tip: keep your dogs or children on a leash ... the bluffs and overlooks are very high and there isn't anything to keep you from falling over if you get to close.  I do like this as it keeps nature in it's natural state but it's a good reminder to always be careful when hiking in this type of environment.

As we continued the trail, we did come across many different pedestal rocks even though we didn't hike the actual Pedestal Rock Trail.  The formations of the rocks were incredible.  You could spot numerous caves along the way too ... which would be a good place to explore if you are into getting off-the-beaten-path.  One bonus for us on this trail: we were the only ones hiking at that time and it's dog friendly.

The trail-head of located right off Highway AR 16 just 6 miles East of Sand Gap.








Thanks for the view Arkansas!
Shona

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Monday, September 30, 2019

Oh Hi Arkansas, We are Back!

It's our favorite time of year .... camping season, and this time we headed back to Arkansas but had a weekend full of new adventures planned.  Since we booked last minute, the campgrounds were almost all full but we did find a tent spot at Steel Creek Campground.  Steel Creek is located on the Buffalo River under the towering Roark Bluff. Located just 3 miles west of Ponca along Highway 74, it's location gives you access to a number of easy day trips!

We arrived at dusk so we quickly set up camp and opted for a quick dinner before sitting around the fire enjoying the star-filled sky and listening to the sounds of nature.  [bonus; we shared the firewood we had grabbed along the roadside with a family next to us and the next thing you know, their kids were bringing us s'mores] ... how did they know we needed that?

We were up early Saturday morning for breakfast over the fire. Eggs with mushrooms, bacon, and toast with honey.  We loaded up White Lightening and set out for our full day of exploring.  After doing a bit of research before leaving, the first stop of the day would be Alum Cove Natural Bridge.  A short 1.2 mile loop hike along the river with one of the oldest natural bridges in this part of the country.  At 130 feet long, the view from beneath the bridge was beautiful ... not to mention the small little waterfall falling from above.  Perks; dogs are allowed and they have a nice little picnic area with fire rings if you want to park it there for a while.  Overall, I definitely recommend this hike!











Stay tuned for the next hike! 🥾
Shona

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Monday, September 16, 2019

Giraffe's, Glitter Latte's, Pizza and a Wedding.

It's been a minute but I had to take time to remember what a wonderful weekend our stay in Pueblo was in July! Mainly because my cousin Cody got hitched and Jovana is the perfect addition to the family!  So, my sister and I loaded up the kiddos in Birdie and we hit the road.  We stayed one night in the Springs because you can't go to Colorado without hitting up the Cheyenne Mtn. Zoo and eating at Amanda's Fonda before we headed South to celebrate.  It was a quick trip but we managed to find some pretty cool spots!

If you haven't been, Pueblo is just a 45-minute drive South from the Springs, but the difference in the temperature is crazy!  It's more of the desert-y part of Colorado and the bright sunshine and averaging only 12 inches of rain per year proves it.  Regardless of the heat, Pueblo is filled with many Museums, the Historic Riverwalk along the Arkansas River, Art Districts, San Isabel National Forest, the Pueblo Zoo, and Lake Pueblo State Park ... just to name a few attractions.

Check out Gypsy Java's for Coffee and East Coast Pizza ... both must-try places in Pueblo!








Gypsy Java's Coffee Shop.  Gluten free goodies and this amazing Rainbow Glitter Latte.  Need I say more?  Make a stop at East Coast Pizza for lunch. 




The Historic Pueblo Riverwalk 





Congrats to Cody and Jovana!
Shona

Follow Me ↠ #kcgypsea