Fall is upon us and there is no better place to view beautiful fall colors than Hot Springs, Arkansas. The peak season kicks off from about the third week of October and goes through the middle of November. Reds, yellows and oranges (and every shade in between) are readily on display on thousands of acres in the region.
Here are our recommendations for the best places to view fall foliage in and around Hot Springs.
Hot Springs National Park
The Hot Springs National Park combines the unique history of Downtown Hot Springs with incredible geology, forestry and creeks. The rocky mountain slopes intertwine with incredible water elements to make this a not to be missed attraction. Fall foliage can be seen on oaks, hickory and other hardwoods throughout the park.
The park features 26 miles of hiking trails – information and maps on trails can be found here.
Oachita National Forest
The Oachita National Forest covers 1.8 million acres in Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. The forest contains woodlands with countless oaks, maples and other hardwoods. For nature lovers, this is one of the best places to witness fall foliage and all the beautiful colors.
There are some tremendous hiking trails that are accessible near Lake Oachita and trail maps can be found here.
Garvan Woodland Gardens
The Garvan Woodland Gardens is the botanical gardens for the University of Arkansas. Situated on 210-acres with 4.5 miles of wooded shoreline along Lake Hamilton, Garvan Woodland Gardens offers various gardens, waterfalls, unique bridges and a chapel.
Fall colors can be observed throughout the gardens. The gardens are open daily from 10 am to 6pm and admission is currently $13 for adults and children 13 and up, $5 for children 3-12 and free for children 0-3. Tours are also available for an additional charge.
Hot Springs Mountain Tower
One of the best places to take in Hot Springs and and the surrounding lush landscape of the Oachitas is at the top of Hot Springs Mountain Tower. Ascending 216 feet above ground and at an elevation of 1,256 feet above sea level, visitors can view a panoramic view of the area from the open-air observation deck. The lower, enclosed observation deck contains exhibits on the area and its history.