Explore Hot Springs National Park
Spring has arrived with a feverish desire to explore one of our neighboring states, Arkansas, and the Hot Springs National Park.
Falls Branch Trail at Lake Catherine
Known for its healing properties, the naturally heated spring water was discovered in abundance in the Hot Springs National Park. On one of our adventure hikes, it was so inviting that I felt inclined to step in and wade in the chilly waterfalls at Lake Catherine State Park.
My favorite day of our trip in Hot Springs was the visit to the Garvan Woodland Gardens, the botanical garden of the University of Arkansas. Nestled in the picturesque Ouachita Mountains of Southwest Arkansas, the Garvan Gardens provides a canopy of pine trees with beautiful, winding trails of blooming tulips and daffodils in a vast array of colors. Luckily, we were able to enjoy Daffodils Day and Tulip Extravaganza which spans from February 15 -April 10. Check out these gorgeous pictures
Garvan Gardens
Daffodils Day and Tulips Extravaganza
But of course, we thoroughly enjoyed the hiking trails of the Hot Springs National Park, beginning with the Balanced Rock and Music Mountain trail. Climbing up about 1,800 feet in elevation, you will be delightfully overwhelmed with the scenic views, spectacular overlooks and wild flowers.
Next day, we headed to Goat Rock Trail, a 2.4 mile moderately rigorous trek. More amazing pictures to share…
Looking for a great trail in Ouachita National Forest, Arkansas? The Caddo Bend Trail is a four-mile loop near Mountain Pine. With outstanding mountain views coupled with the picturesque crystal-clear lake, we chose to kayak and fish that day. And yet again, I couldn’t resist jumping in the frigid cold water.
For a day of relaxation and fun, check out the Bathhouse Row, including 8 bathhouses from the 19th and 20th centuries in the quaint city of Hot Springs. My daughter and I treated ourselves to an aromatherapy mineral bath at the Quapaw Baths & Spa. It was 20 minutes of sheer heaven. That evening, we roasted marshmallows for s’mores over a fire in the backyard of our rental home. It was reminiscent of my “Girl Scout” days!
What a wonderful place to visit! You can take your pick, from hiking the mountain trails at the National Park to pampering yourself with a mineral bath and massage. No doubt, Hot Springs has your vacation dream get-away for the entire family.
