7 Natural Wonders Unique To The Natural State That Should Be On Everyone’s Arkansas Bucket List
Arkansas has no shortage of natural wonders. From mountains, to rivers, to valleys, to waterfalls, and caves, our state is a gold mine for these phenomena. While I can’t list them all, I can give you a glimpse into the ones that are truly unique to the Natural State. So, here are seven natural wonders that you must add to your Arkansas bucket list.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Arkansas 72135, USA
Tucked away at the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, right outside of Little Rock is Pinnacle Mountain. This cone-shaped mountain is unlike any other in the Ozarks. At first glance, you may think it’s a pyramid or perhaps a volcano, but it is only a uniquely shaped mountain that offers spectacular views from the summit.
Buffalo National River Park Road, Buffalo Nat'l River Pk Rd, Arkansas 72634, USA
Located in the Southern region of the Ozark Mountains is the Buffalo National River. This river is the first national river in the United States, and with 135 miles of flow, there is lots to do. You’ll be impressed with the majestic bluffs along the river, and the overlooks offer breathtaking views, making it a unique place to visit.
Arkansas Grand Canyon, AR-7, Jasper, AR 72641, USA
No need to go to the southwest of the U.S. to see the Grand Canyon. We have our own here in Arkansas. This natural wonder can be witnessed from a lookout point right outside of Jasper off Scenic Highway 7. The stunning views of the mountains and valleys attract thousands of visitors each year. So, be prepared to be blown away by this incredible canyon.
Bull Shoals Caverns, 1011 C S Woods Blvd, Bull Shoals, AR 72619, USA
Not all our natural wonders are above ground. We have many caves and caverns that offer a truly unique experience. For instance, Bull Shoals Caverns is a living cave formed over 350 million years ago, making it one of the oldest cave systems in the world. Need another reason to visit? You can get married inside this cave at an altar made from crystals.
Arkansas Sphinx Parking, Pilot Rock Mountain Rd, Hagarville, AR 72839, USA
In addition to the mountains, rivers, valleys, and caves, we have amazing rock formations in Arkansas. But one stands out more than the rest. You’ve heard of the Great Sphinx in Egypt, right? Well, we have our own Sphinx that you can witness by taking a short but challenging hike. This one-of-a-kind rock is tucked inside the Ozark National Forest just outside of Hagarville. And it’s a natural wonder that you must see at least once.
Hot Springs National Park, AR, USA
The next natural wonder is nestled inside the Ouachita Mountains. Hot Springs National Park is home to, you guessed it, naturally hot springs. With more than 40 springs containing geo-thermal water flowing from sandstone rocks, it is definitely a place to add to your list. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties, but you’ll need to visit one of the nearby bathhouses to experience it.
Glory Hole Falls Trail, Arkansas 72854, USA
We have many majestic waterfalls in Arkansas. Most have incredible cascades and tiers. But one waterfall stands out amongst the rest, and that is the Glory Hole Falls located inside the Ozark National Forest. Not only does it have a unique name, but the waterfall itself is truly remarkable. It flows through a hole in a cave ledge, created by the creek. This makes the falls a picture-perfect natural wonder.
There are tons of other natural wonders in Arkansas that you must add to your bucket list. But for now, tell us which one is your favorite in the comments below.
Address: Buffalo National River Park Road, Buffalo Nat'l River Pk Rd, Arkansas 72634, USA
Address: Bull Shoals Caverns, 1011 C S Woods Blvd, Bull Shoals, AR 72619, USA
Address: Glory Hole Falls Trail, Arkansas 72854, USA
Address: Arkansas Grand Canyon, AR-7, Jasper, AR 72641, USA
Address: Hot Springs National Park, AR, USA
Address: Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Arkansas 72135, USA
Address: Arkansas Sphinx Parking, Pilot Rock Mountain Rd, Hagarville, AR 72839, USA