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Northwest Arkansas Finally Gets Its Own Water Trail
Upper Illinois River Water Trail Opens in Benton County Northwest Arkansas has become nationally known for its extensive hiking and mountain biking trail systems, but until now, one of the
Lake Wilhelmina Reopens, Ribbon-Cutting Set for May 15
After nearly two years of major infrastructure repairs and extensive habitat improvements, west Arkansas’s beloved
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Northwest Arkansas Finally Gets Its Own Water Trail
Upper Illinois River Water Trail Opens in Benton County Northwest Arkansas has become nationally known for its extensive hiking and mountain biking trail systems, but until now, one of the region’s most popular natural resources had not been officially connected to the outdoor recreation network, the Illinois River. That changed on May 8, 2026, when the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the city of Siloam Springs, the Grand River Dam Authority, and several regional partners officially dedicated the Upper Illinois River Water Trail. The new paddling route is the first official water trail in Northwest Arkansas and one of 21
Northwest Arkansas Finally Gets Its Own Water Trail
Upper Illinois River Water Trail Opens in Benton County Northwest Arkansas has become nationally known for its extensive hiking and mountain biking trail systems, but until now, one of the region’s most popular natural resources had not been officially connected to the outdoor recreation network, the Illinois River. That changed on May 8, 2026, when the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the city of Siloam Springs, the Grand River Dam Authority, and several regional partners officially dedicated the Upper Illinois River Water Trail. The new paddling route is the first official water trail in Northwest Arkansas and one of 21
Hot Springs to Host Inaugural Birding Festival of the South This October
A New Outdoor Festival Takes Flight in Arkansas Birders from across the region will soon have a new reason to visit Hot Springs. Registration is now open for the inaugural
Lake Wilhelmina Reopens, Ribbon-Cutting Set for May 15
After nearly two years of major infrastructure repairs and extensive habitat improvements, west Arkansas’s beloved Lake Wilhelmina is officially back, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission wants to celebrate
Hot Springs to Host Inaugural Birding Festival of the South This October
A New Outdoor Festival Takes Flight in Arkansas Birders from across the region will soon have a new reason to visit Hot Springs. Registration is now open for the inaugural
Lake Wilhelmina Reopens, Ribbon-Cutting Set for May 15
After nearly two years of major infrastructure repairs and extensive habitat improvements, west Arkansas’s beloved Lake Wilhelmina is officially back, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission wants to celebrate
Climbing
5th Annual Arkansas Climbers Festival Returns to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in 2026
The 5th Annual Arkansas Climbers Festival returns to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in Jasper from Friday, March 27, through Sunday, March 29, 2026. This three-day celebration of climbing culture brings together
New Climbing Area at Petit Jean State Park
Petit Jean State Park in Arkansas is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Now, this beloved park is adding a new chapter to its legacy: rock climbing. For
For the Love of Climbing: From Rock Bottom to Rock Faces — How Climbing Gave Katie Jo Myers Life
By Sharon Bennett, featuring Katie Jo Myers Climbing is more than just a sport. It is a source of strength, hope, and community for many. In this installment of For the Love
Hiking & Backpacking
Get Out There: Enjoying Arkansas Summers Without the Itch
Arkansas is a paradise for outdoor lovers in the summer. From the misty peaks of the Ozark Mountains to the forests of the Ouachita National Forest, from the clear waters
Bear Aware in Arkansas: How to Avoid Bear Encounters While Hiking and Camping in Bear Country
Arkansas earned the nickname The Bear State long before it became known as The Natural State, and today that nickname once again fits. After black bears were nearly wiped out
Beginner’s Guide to Backpacking the Ozarks & Ouachitas
Arkansas Outside · Trail & Gear Beginner’s Guide to Backpacking Arkansas Spring in the Ozark & Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas There is a particular kind of morning that belongs only
Paddling
Northwest Arkansas Finally Gets Its Own Water Trail
Upper Illinois River Water Trail Opens in Benton County Northwest Arkansas has become nationally known for its extensive hiking and mountain biking trail systems, but until now, one of the
Memorial Day Float Trip Guide: Arkansas’s Best Floats for the Long Weekend
From the Ozarks to the Ouachitas, these four Arkansas rivers deliver unforgettable paddling for every skill level this holiday weekend. Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial middle of float season
Mile Zero Delta Outdoor Festival 2026 | Helena-West Helena, Arkansas
HELENA-WEST HELENA, Ark. — One of the Arkansas Delta’s most ambitious outdoor celebrations returns this weekend as the Mile Zero Delta Outdoor Festival takes over Helena-West Helena from Friday, April
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