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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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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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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Waterfalls, Hiking Trails, and Big Boulders

Saturday morning after breakfast in our warm tent we had one mission; to explore.  We headed over to the infamous Devils Den Waterfall at the Dam.  There weren't too many people there yet, so it was the perfect time to capture the moment with a few photos and let Lola splash around in the water from Lee Creek.  The water here was the most beautiful bluish-green color and was surrounded by the vibrant Fall colored trees.

Here's some history; The park was built by the Civilian Conservation Core starting in 1933 where they used native materials, rustic style wood and stone to match the surrounding natural beauty.  This area of Lee Creek Valley one of the most preserved CCC sites in the United States.  The rock dam spans across Lee Creek forming Lake Devil which is used for boating, canoeing and fishing.  There is a variety of trails, a seasonal cafe, a general store, and many tent and cabin sites.  This park is filled with sandstone caves, bluffs, rock shelters and crevices that were once a hiding place for outlaws on the Butterfield Stage Line until the American Civil War.  At that time Confederate guerillas took over to stage raids on the Union Army's supply lines.  It's so cool that this site has been preserved for people who love the great outdoors.  Next stop, the trail.

Devils Den Trail is a moderate 1.5 mile loop that features Twin Falls, Cold Springs, the Devil's Ice Box, and Devil's Den Cave.  Currently the caves are closed because of White-nose syndrome, a disease that has killed millions of bats (insert sad face), but don't let that deter you from taking the hike. It's beautiful.  The trail does have a few challenging sections with some good inclines, but with proper guidance and good hiking shoes, it's easy to maneuver. The rock formations are incredible and its easy to imagine the history of the trail as you make your way through.

After hiking the trail we headed back to camp to check out Lee Creek which happened to be in our backyard.  We let Lola play around in the water and enjoyed the sun setting; shining perfectly on the fall foliage.  Back at camp we started the fire and began cooking dinner. Tonight was a true "cowboy" meal of tomatoes, black eyed peas, ranch style and butter beans.  A few campfire stories, a game of Domino's,  and relaxing before heading into our home away from home. It was the perfect end to the day.

See ya tomorrow Arkansas nature!

Shona 

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