The weather has turned a little cooler and leaves are beginning to change colors in the Hot Springs, Arkansas area. While it's never easy to predict such things, the best fall foliage in our area usually happens in early to mid-November. There are numerous places to view the foliage, so we'll share a few of our favorites.
The Hot Springs Mountain Tower has 360 degree views of Hot Springs National Park and much of Hot Springs. You can also make the short drive up West Mountain to see similar views from the opposite side of the park. Hickory Nut Mountain is a short drive west of Hot Springs on Highway 270, with beautiful views of Lake Ouachita. Be aware that the road up to the overlook is unpaved. Eagle watch cruises begin at DeGray Lake State Park in November. Enjoy a guided tour of the lake with a state park interpreter and perhaps your fall foliage pictures will have a bald eagle in the foreground!
If you have time for a day trip, Mount Magazine State Park is about 2 1/2 hours away. Have lunch in the lodge restaurant, overlooking Petit Jean River Valley, and then take a short hike to the highest point in Arkansas. Spend the afternoon hiking some of the other trails in the park and be sure to visit Cameron Bluff Overlook before making the drive back. Another easy day trip is Queen Wilhelmina State Park atop Rich Mountain, Arkansas's second highest peak. This drive is also about 2 1/2 hours, and will take you up the Talimena Scenic Drive. The lodge restaurant sits atop Rich Mountain, and provides excellent views during lunch.
Of course if you don't want to spend your vacation driving, one of our favorite places to view the fall colors is from our front porch swing! Each of our guest rooms also has a wonderful view, whether it's the tree-top view from The Ouachita, the private deck off The Hamilton, or the window seat view in The DeGray. Reserve your fall getaway now, and join us for "nature's grand finale"!