People think America is all about great food, great shopping and high lifestyle. While all of the above are true, there are still places in the country that depict the wilderness this nation was founded upon. The Ozark Mountains in Arkansas are one such place. Being the most extensive mountainous region between the Rockies and the Appalachians, there is a saying about the Ozarks that goes, “It’s not that the mountains are so high, it’s just that the valleys are so deep”. In fact, this is one of the main features of this fascinating travel spot: The Ozarks are not in fact mountains but actually a deep, high, dissected plateau.
If you like the call of the mountains and the lush forest greenery beckons you, then this is one place you must visit. Dazzling mountain lakes, clear water springs, bustling waterfalls and secret mountain caverns have everything on a platter for the adventurous spirit. Not only this, you can also taste the local flavour with delectable eating joints, art and culture shows in the myriad mountain villages. Get ready to experience the rich community and relaxed lifestyle of Arkansas.
Cycling, hiking, skiing, zip-lining through trees and horseback riding are just a few of the many outdoor activities you can enjoy here. If you belong to the gentleman’s club, you can also go golfing in the pristine greenery. The Buffalo River flowing through the Ozarks is known as America’s First National River. It is a great spot for canoeing, fishing, camping and hiking up the Old River Trail.
Even if you are not one for adventure, the Ozarks still have a lot to offer. While shopping is one of the many activities you can engage in, you can also uncover the mysterious beauty of a Medieval castle. That’s right, it seems the Ozarks tourism department has thought of everything! You can also go for a classy wine tasting or simply chill at one of their world-class resorts. You can also opt for family lodges or secluded cabins if you want to stay close to nature.
The Ozarks Map
Facts about The Ozarks
- Even though tourism brings in a substantial portion of the revenue, food processing and poultry farming are major economic activities in the region. In fact, many Fortune 500 companies like ConAgra Foods and Tyson Food Corporation has processing farms and poultry plants in the region.
- There has been much dispute on where the Ozarks get their name from. While some say that the name is a corruption of the French abbreviation ‘aux Arcs’ (short for aux Arkansas, in English), others stipulate that the region got its name from the term, ‘aux arcs’, meaning, ‘(land) of the arches’. This refers to the numerous natural bridges caused by erosion and the collapsed caves in the region.
- The Neosho National Fish Hatchery established here in 1888 is the oldest Federal Fish Hatchery in operation today.
Where is the Ozarks ?
The Ozarks are stretched over an extensive portion of southern Missouri and north-central and north-western Arkansas. It also covers a portion of north-eastern Oklahoma and south-eastern Kansas. Nestled between the Appalachian mountains and the Rockies, the Ozark Highlands cover about 47,000 square miles.
Once you reach Arkansas, you can book a drive to this celebrated corner of the state. The drive is best planned from the Eureka Springs south and east to the Buffalo River via Jasper, then east to Mountain View, before driving back around to the starting point.
Best time to visit The Ozarks
While Ozarks has something for you all year round, October is the time when the mountains come to a full bloom. Fall colours in these deciduous forests create a kaleidoscopic palette of saffrons, crimsons and ochres. If you are also looking for a place away from the hustle-bustle of the city winter, head over here. Right from a quiet night in front of a fireplace to fishing at popular spots, the Ozarks can make your winter a little bit warmer.
More about The Ozarks
Nearby Attractions : White River, Crooked Creek, Norfork Lake, Gaston’s Visitor Centre, Twin Falls, Raimondo Family Winery.
Related : Ozark City Map | Ozark Location | Arkansas Location | Cities in Arkansas