The Best Outdoor Activities in Hot Springs

sunset on lake with a pine tree branch in the foregroundNow more than ever, travelers want to get out of the city and experience the outdoors.  Situated amongst a national park, 3 lakes, one national forest and 2 rivers, Hot Springs, AR, is truly an outdoor destination. Our guests often ask us what there is to do in our area, and this is just a short list of activities we suggest:

  •  Hot Springs National Park:  Even though the park is located within the city limits, there are over 26 miles of trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.  The national park trails provide natural vistas and incomparable views of the city as well as remote areas perfect for wildlife viewing.
  • Garvan Woodland Gardens:  For a less strenuous activity, spend a few hours at this woodland botanical garden on the shores of Lake Hamilton.  Wander over 5 miles of paved paths through formal gardens and natural woodlands that change with the seasons.  Stroll through thousands of tulips and daffodils in the spring, mums and changing leaves in the fall, and catch the ever popular Holiday Lights extravaganza in November and December.
  • Mountain Biking:  The Hot Springs area has trails for all ages and skill levels.  Take it easy on the Hot Springs Creek Greenway Trail, or go hardcore on our three IMBA Epic Rides.  If your comfort level is somewhere in between those two extremes, try Iron Mountain Trail just outside Bismarck, or the Northwoods Trail System which connects with Hot Springs National Park.
  • Hot Springs Historic Baseball Trail:  Step back in time to the birthplace of spring training and immerse yourself in baseball history.  Each stop on this self-guided walking tour through Hot Springs describes the golden age of professional baseball  where the legends played and records were set.a cluster of natural crystals
  • Diamond and Crystal Mining: Both mineral collectors and novices have an affection for the Ouachita Mountains surrounding Hot Springs.  Some of the largest and finest deposits of quartz crystals are found here.  There are several crystal mines to choose from, and each has its own unique crystal habits and different formations.  The Crater of Diamonds State Park is located about 45 minutes away, where you can hunt for diamonds and lots of other minerals in a volcanic crater.  The park averages about 1 diamond find per day, and we are still waiting to give away a free night to our first guest who finds one during their visit to Tiffany’s!
  • Arkansas State Parks:  We are blessed to have one of the finest state park systems we’ve ever experienced here in Arkansas, and three of them are nearly out our back door!  Lake Ouachita State Park is located on one of the most popular fishing lakes in the state.  Bass, crappie, bream catfish, rainbow trout, northern pike and ocean stripers can all be found here.  The Caddo Bend Trail is a popular 4-mile hiking trail looping around a peninsula on the lake. Interpretive tours are also available, such as sunset lake tours, and our favorite – bird island tours in late summer.  Lake Catherine State Park is not far from Garvan Woodland Gardens, and boasts the only waterfall trail in the area.  Falls Branch Trail winds up and through the forest and leads to the seasonal waterfall and swimming hole. 
  • DeGray Lake:  While DeGray Lake State Park (known for fishing, boating, and interpretive tours such as bald eagle watches and sunset lake tours) is located on the south end of the lake, the northern end holds what we call our “hidden secret”.  Just 6 miles down the road is a small picnic and beach/swimming area that is rarely crowded.  It’s also a perfect spot to bird watch and view sunsets from the water’s edge.Outdoor patio with a rocking chair and wooden swing, flowering hanging plants and a bird feeder.
  • Tiffany’s Bed and Breakfast:  With so many things to do in our area, don’t forget to spend some time outside at Tiffany’s!  We’ve got 60+ acres of woods to explore, nature trails to wander along, 3 creeks, and a NWF Certified Wildlife Habitat for bird watching and wildlife viewing.  Then of course, there’s our full-length porch for coffee sipping, and the fire pit for star gazing at night.  And if you reserve The Hamilton, you’ll have your own private deck to enjoy. 

Whatever brings you here — whether it’s scenery, activities, or events — our Hot Springs area bed and breakfast has just what you need to unwind before and after it all. Our cozy rooms, thoughtful amenities, and homemade breakfasts are all prepared with your relaxation and comfort in mind. 

Browse our list of specials and packages and reserve your accommodations today to experience a getaway that you’ll remember for years to come!

 

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