Former Park Ranger to Speak on Hiking the Ozarks and Buffalo National River

Kevin Middleton will be the featured speaker on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at the south campus of North Arkansas College.  Mr. Middleton’s presentation will be located in Room M145 and the program will begin at 6:30 p.m. Former park ranger, Kevin Middleton is a long-time outdoor enthusiast and is highly regarded for his knowledge and experience of hiking the Ozarks and the trails surrounding the Buffalo National River. His presentation will outline basic hiking knowledge along with some of the do’s and don’ts to hiking in the beautiful Ozarks. He will also feature some of his favorite hiking trails throughout northern Arkansas that are family-friendly and enjoyable this time of year.

The warm sunshine on your face, the sound of the wind rushing through the trees overhead, and the soft earthy feel of the trail under your boots. Not only are these experiences enjoyable to have, but they’re good for you, too. Hiking is proven to have many health benefits, ranging from physical exercise you get when out on the trail, to emotional or mental relief that comes from being in nature. Being in nature can also boost your mood and improve your mental health. Spending quality time in the great outdoors reduces stress, calms anxiety, and can lead to a lower risk of depression. Hiking with a partner, or even in a group, can improve the strength and health of your relationships. Because hiking ranges in difficulty from an extremely challenging climb to a casual way of spending time outside, it’s a great way to strengthen the friendships and bonds you have with your companions. With families soon getting together during the holiday season, hiking is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with family, get a good workout, and improve your mental health!

Please make plans to the Buffalo National River Partners on the evening of Tuesday, December 12 @ 6:30 p.m. To increase accessibility to this presentation, the public may also attend virtually.  Should you be interested in watching this presentation online, please email Rodney Arnold and he will send you the link.  He may be contacted at rodney.arnold@northark.edu. Admission is free to the public.

The mission of the Buffalo National River Partners organization is to support the goals and purposes of the Buffalo National River. By providing financial resources, advocacy, technical assistance, and volunteers to the park, our organization assists in the purpose of preserving the unique and cultural features, educating visitors, and improving the facilities of Buffalo National River.