If it’s outdoor adventure you’re after, Eureka Springs is unbeatable. Tucked away in the Ozark Mountains, this historic town offers a wealth of attractions for visitors looking to soak up the stunning Arkansas scenery. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Beaver Lake, or get your heart pumping with a thrilling canopy zip line tour. Whatever your style, Eureka Springs has the experience to match.
Here are five unforgettable outdoor experiences in one of Arkansas’ most beautiful destinations!
1. Zipline Through the Treetops
With Ozark Mountain Ziplines, you’ll swoop and glide amidst a lush canopy, unveiling the region’s stunning beauty. This exhilarating adventure is perfect for all, welcoming kiddos as young as three! Opt for the half-canopy escapade or the full-canopy extravaganza, each complete with delightful nature strolls. Beyond the ziplines, designated trails provide adventures off the beaten path – rent an e-mountain bike for the ultimate excursion.
2. Gem Mining Discoveries at Cosmic Cavern
Unearth hidden treasures at Cosmic Cavern – Berryville’s underground wonderland. Treat the family to a delightful day of cave exploration, fossil hunting, and gem mining in this enchanting underground world. Start your quest at the gift shop, where each bag of dirt promises a sparkling surprise. Channel your inner prospector at the outdoor sluice box, where patience and keen eyes reveal gems like amethyst, lodestone, citrine, rose quartz, and peacock ore. With souvenirs you can keep forever, kids and grown-ups will be captivated by this gem-tastic activity.
3. Explore Keels Creek on Horseback
Are you ready to giddy up, Ozark-style? Saddle up and embark on a horseback adventure with Keels Creek Trail Rides through the breathtaking Ozark landscape. Perfect for families, this 50-minute tour takes riders along the picturesque shores of Keels Creek, through lush forests and meadows, and even splashes through a babbling brook. Remember to don your adventure gear — you might get wet! Watch for local wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys and possibly the elusive gray fox.
4. Hit the Trails at Lake Leatherwood City Park
Set your sights on 1,610 acres of historic outdoor paradise, where adventure enthusiasts rave about the region’s finest hiking and mountain biking. With over 25 miles of diverse trails, Lake Leatherwood City Park guarantees a fun-filled day for all. Tackle the popular 2.4-mile Lake Leatherwood Loop, a moderately challenging hike peppered with beautiful lake views and geocaching surprises. For adrenaline-pumping action, the Lake Leatherwood Gravity Project beckons mountain bikers of all levels.
5. Swim the Day Away at Beaver Lake
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Beaver Lake, where limestone bluffs, lush flora and fauna, and refreshing beaches beckon. Though you won’t find lifeguards on duty, feel free to snag a life jacket from the first-come, first-served supply. With swimming zones and boating areas cleverly divided by floating lines and buoys, you can enjoy a carefree plunge into the water. Explore four fabulous swimming beaches: Beaver Dam Swim Area, Starkey Park, Dam Site South Park, and Dam Site North Park. For a delightful picnic experience, some of these spots even offer charming picnic areas nearby.
