The colors are just starting to turn which means it's hiking season in Arkansas. One family-friendly trail to take is Tanyard Creek in Bella Vista. Between the lovely waterfalls and canopy coverage, this hike is an all-around stunner in the fall. We may need to wait another week or two for the peak fall foliage but let's go ahead and take a peek along the creek.
The Tanyard Creek Nature Trail is a refreshing hike for casual strollers.
The volunteer work that went into creating this inner-city oasis is apparent as soon as you begin the loop. The trail isn't paved completely but it is very well-marked.
This trail is easy for small legs and can be broken down into even smaller loops.
The full trail is 2.2 miles but can easily be split for time or tired little feet. Along the way you'll find dozens of informative markers that cover everything from local flora to old home setter history.
Just about every feature you want in an Arkansas trail can be found at Tanyard Creek.
Interesting rock formations? Check. Waterfalls? Of course. Abandoned ruins? Yep. How about a cave? Yes, that too! Perhaps the only thing missing is a gift shop so you'll have to make your "I love Tanyard Creek" shirts at home.
Every season brings something new to see at the creek but fall is probably our favorite time.
The summer dips are fun but we're always taken aback by autumn at Tanyard every year. The heavy foliage makes you feel like you're in the middle of the Ozarks instead of three miles away from the Dairy Queen.
There's also no better view than a waterfall in the fall.
Several waterfalls are along the creek but the main feature is Tanyard Creek Falls. All of the falls around here are created by the run-off of the nearby Windsor Lake.
Of course the best way to see all of this surrounding color is while you're in the middle of the bridge.
There's a couple of bridges that cross the creek but the large suspension bridge is the perfect vantage point for a panoramic view of fall colors. According to the Farmers' Almanac the peak fall color will be between Oct. 30th - Nov. 4th, 2019. This gives you plenty of time to take a trip to see this stunning view at its best!
We would love to see your falltastic photos along Tanyard Creek in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
This is just one more trail to add to your family fall day trips. Don't forget to take one of these kid-friendly mountain trails or drive to see the wild elk.
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