Wake surfing on a lake near Mountain Home
Wake surfing on a lake near Mountain Home

Adventure awaits in Mountain Home

By: Mountain Home Area Chamber of Commerce 10/01/2023

Where the outdoors is a way of life, not just a season.

Make Mountain Home, Arkansas your destination for fun. Enjoy a day at Bull Shoals Lake or Lake Norfork where you can boat, ski, wakeboard, tube and swim. Catch trout and bass on the White River or North Fork River. Kayak the Buffalo National River or gaze at the stars in this International Dark Sky Park. On April 8, 2024, the Twin Lakes area will be a prime viewing destination for the Great North American Eclipse. 

On land, explore hiking trails and scenic overlooks through the Ozark Mountains. Bring a mountain bike to enjoy numerous riding trails. You can also cruise scenic byways on your motorcycle or shred UTV and ATV trails. 

The city has a variety of year-round attractions, local shops, breweries and award-winning eats. Book your cabin, hotel, camping or RV site in Mountain Home today.

An outdoor landing strip near Mountain Home, Arkansas. A blue single-engine plane is seen as it comes down for a landing. Lush green trees and a blue sky are seen in the background. Photo source: James Moore.
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Beautiful scenery makes aviation a favorite pastime in The Natural State. Mountain Home, Arkansas, is a hot spot for backcountry flying, with multiple airstrips and attractions accessible by plane. Fly-ins welcome. Photo by James Moore.
An outdoor setting. A white single-engine plane with an orange stripe takes up the majority of the photography. A middle-aged couple stands near the plane, smiling. Photo source: James Moore.
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Why should drones have all the fun? The best aerial views of Mountain Home, Arkansas, are captured the old-fashioned way. Enjoy Arkansas from the air with multiple available landing strips and a local airport. Photo by James Moore.
A wooded setting with brown leaves on ground and green leaves on trees. A man is riding a mountain bike. He is wearing a helmet and looking ahead to his path. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
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Mountain Home has more than 30 miles of premium mountain biking trails, like the Oakridge Mountain Bike Trail and Pigeon Creek Trail System. Less than half an hour south you’ll find the IMBA EPIC Syllamo trails. Photo by Magnet Creative.
A wooded setting with a mountain bike trail. A woman in workout clothes, a bike helmet and sunglasses rides her bike along the trail. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
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Mountain biking is really taking off in Mountain Home. Clysta Willett Park is a 1.2-mile loop among more than 30 miles of trails in the area. The scenery alone is worth the trip, but it’s really just the beginning. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
A waterside setting with a shoreline along the Buffalo National River. A man and a woman are each dragging their own kayaks from the shore into the water. They are dressed in shorts and T-shirts. Photo source: James Moore.
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When you float the Buffalo National River, there are lots of sandbars and attractions where you can stop for a break. Bring a picnic lunch in your dry bag, relax and enjoy the view. Photo source: James Moore.
The shoreline along the Buffalo National River in Arkansas with green-tree mountains and limestone bluffs in the background. A girl is sitting in a red kayak on the water, holding a paddle dipped into the water on one side. Photo source: James Moore.
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Kayaks and canoes are a popular way to float down the Buffalo National River. Rafting and tubing are common. You’ll find all types of floatables available for rent at nearby outfitters, plus shuttle services to and from. Photo source: James Moore.
A setting along the Buffalo National River with limestone bluffs and green trees along one side. In the water below, a man and a woman sit in kayaks while holding paddles. Photo source: James Moore.
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The gorgeous bluffs on display along Buffalo National River took over 300 million years to form, so feel free to take your time and enjoy the float. Wait until you see Tyler Bend! Photo source: James Moore.
Image of Big Creek Golf and Country Club – 5-star rated by Golfer’s Digest. A sweeping golf course dotted with lakes, trees and sand traps, all sitting on the dramatic backdrop of the Ozark mountains. Photo source: James Moore.
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Big Creek Golf and Country Club is a 5-star golfing getaway in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Featuring 18 holes over 200 acres, this course is known for water hazards and maybe the most impressive par 5 in The Natural State. Photo by James Moore.
A photograph of an outdoor setting with a body of water near Mountain Home, AR. Shorelines with trees are on either side of the water. A blue sky overhead. An historic-looking bridge with a series of arches leads from one side to the other. Photo source: James Moore.
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The Cotter Bridge is a landmark near Mountain Home. Built in 1921 and restored in 2004, Cotter Bridge is one of the longest “rainbow bridges.” It crosses the White River and really makes an impression. Photo by James Moore.
A photograph of an outdoor setting with a body of water near Mountain Home, AR. Shorelines with trees are on either side of the water and an island with trees can be seen in the center. Two bridges traverse the water. A brown, rusted train bridge on concrete pillars is in front. A bridge for vehicle traffic is in the back. Photo source: James Moore.
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The rainbow shaped Cotter Bridge is an historic White River landmark in Cotter, Arkansas. Whether you travel over in a car or under it in a kayak, you’ll remember it. Find it about 15 minutes west of Mountain Home. Photo source: James Moore.
The order bar at Cove Coffee in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Coffee making machines are seen on front and back counters. Boards with handwritten menus line the walls. A case of muffins and pastries sits on the counter. A girl smiles behind the order screen. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
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There’s no better way to wake up or recharge in Mountain Home, Arkansas, than coffee from Cove Coffee. Photo by Magnetic Creative.
Aerial view of the Wildcat Shoals Public Access ramp on the White River, located in Cotter, Arkansas. A large river is curving up and to the left, with luscious greenery on its left and right. The ramp is across the water from residential riverside properties, which appear tiny from the image’s vantage point. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
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The White River is easily accessible from a number of public ramps, including the Wildcat Shoals Public Access ramp in Cotter, Arkansas, notable for its scenic river bend. Photo by Magnetic Creative.
An outdoor setting along a waterway with Cotter Bridge crossing the White River in the background. A paved trail, known as the Big Spring Nature Trail, is seen in the foreground. Green trees, grass and bushes line the shore. An arched bridge is seen in the background. An older couple walks hand-in-hand on the paved portion of the trail. Photo source: James Moore.
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Take in the beautiful White River and the Cotter Bridge with a lovely walk on the Big Spring Nature Trail in Cotter, AR. Everything about this place is relaxing. Photo by James Moore.
A low-lit nighttime scene at Mountain Home, Arkansas’s downtown Crush Wine Bar. A table has seats with five women dressed in nice clothing, each with a drink. A crystal chandelier hangs overhead. The women are smiling and laughing with one another. Photo source: James Moore.
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This quiet mountain town has a nightlife! Crush Wine Bar in Mountain Home, Arkansas, is a super chill place for wine and local craft beer with friends. Make plans on Friday night for live music in the lounge. Photo by James Moore.
An outdoor setting in an alleyway next to Mountain Home, Arkansas’s Crush Wine Bar. The area is decorated with colored tiles, murals and strings of lights overhead. Outdoor chairs and tables are in the space. Two women in summery clothing are talking in the foreground, each with a drink in hand. Photo source: James Moore.
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On Thursday nights at Crush Wine Bar in Mountain Home, Arkansas, you can enjoy the outdoors with walkaway beverages, patio seating, people watching, murals and more. Photo by James Moore.
The rooftop of Rio Burrito. Two people are sitting at a small bistro table. You can see the face of only one, a woman in a blue T-shirt. She is smiling and holding a beverage that is in a glass bottle. A second table with a couple is seen in the background. Photo source: James Moore.
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Rio Burrito has exactly what you’re craving plus rooftop seating. You’ll be impressed by the food and drinks, the ambience and the price. Photo by James Moore.
An outdoor rooftop setting at Rapp’s Brewing in Mountain Home, Arkansas. There is a blue sky in the background and the space’s railing can be seen around the edge. Four people are seated at a picnic table; three women and a man. They are talking and enjoying drinks. Photo source: James Moore.
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Rapp’s Barren Brewing is a highlight of the Mountain Home nightlife, try one of their locally brewed craft beers or a cocktail along with some amazing food. This Arkansas experience is one to share with good friends. Photo by James Moore.
The flavors are as eclectic as the ambience at Rapp’s Barren Brewing in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Photo by James Moore.
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A brick wall and exposed HVAC in the industrial Rapp’s Barren Brewing, including a bar and menu on the wall. A vintage-style street light is behind the counter. A bartender behind the counter hands a drink to a man. Photo source: James Moore.
A dinner table. The background of a person and tall drink glasses is blurred. An individual-serving-size tray holds miniature chocolate chip cookies. Photo source: James Moore.
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Of the many tasty treats on the menu at Rapp’s Barren Brewing in Mountain Home, one local favorite is the mini chocolate chip cookies. There are also mini donuts. And many, many choices for local brews. Photo source: James Moore.
An outdoor setting on Norfork Lake near Mountain Home, Arkansas. A ski boat with a large Super Mable inner tube attached to the back is seen in the water. Four kids and four adults are seen in the boat. Photo source: James Moore.
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Mountain Home isn’t all peace and quiet! Nearby Norfork Lake is a huge, 42-mile stretch of open water where all your boating dreams come true. Don’t have a boat? Vessels and inflatables of all shapes and sizes are available for rent. Photo by James Moore.
A sunny, outdoor setting on Norfork Lake near Mountain Home, Arkansas. Inside the wake behind a boat, two women are seen on a large inner tube. Trees and blue lake water are seen in the background. Photo source: James Moore.
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Another day sitting in front of the tube on Norfork Lake near Mountain Home, Arkansas. Watersports are the thing to do here, and it’s easy to rent boats and inflatables and get on the water. Photo by James Moore.
An outdoor setting along the banks of a waterway. The area nearest the water is grassy. In the foreground a family is on a camping pad. A mom and two boys sit on a colorful quilt near a campfire. A dad sits on the opposite side of the fire with his back to the camera. He holds a skewer with a marshmallow on one end. A box of graham crackers and a bag of marshmallows sit on the ground next to him. The time is near sunset. A hammock hangs in one tree seen by the water. Photo source: James Moore.
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The most memorable getaways are the ones that let you pay attention. No lines or traffic. Just family, campfires, sunsets and s’mores. Mountain Home, Arkansas, is a relaxing destination for the whole family. Photo by James Moore.
An outdoor setting on the waters of the White River. The sun is rising and the fog is beginning to lift from the water. A fishing boat holds a guide along with a father and two young sons. The father and one of the sons each have a fishing pole in the water. Photo source: James Moore.
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Fishing on the White River is a longstanding tradition with quite a legacy. World-class trout and bass fishing keep it going generation after generation. Photo by James Moore.
An outdoor setting along a waterway. It is a sunny day. A party barge and canoe are banked in the background. In the foreground along the shoreline, a girl is seen with a fishing rod and reel. A man is seen behind her with his own rod and reel. The two are casting out and fishing in the waters. Photo source: James Moore.
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Arkansas’ White River is known for world-class trout and bass fishing and is one of the most iconic waterways in The Natural State. Boat rentals are available, and bank fishing is just as popular. Photo by James Moore.
An outdoor setting along a waterway, possibly the White River near Mountain Home, Arkansas. The time of day is likely early morning as a fog is rising off the water. Two men, one older and one younger, are seen walking along the bank. Both wear waders and hold a rod and reel. The younger man also has a fishing net. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
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Fly fishing for trout on Arkansas’ White River is an artform. Those who do it well get rewarded with more than style points at this world-class trout fishing destination near Mountain Home. Photo by Magnetic Creative.
An outdoor setting near the White River in Mountain Home, Arkansas. It is a sunny day with white clouds in a blue sky. A rocky bank is seen next to the water. A young girl holds a fishing pole and appears to be reeling in a catch. Her father kneels beside her, steadying her with one hand and the pole with his other. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
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Once you’ve caught a fish on the White River, you’re hooked for life. That’s why people keep coming back generation after generation. The fishing is always good in The Natural State. Photo by Magnetic Creative.
On the water of the White River near the Bull Shoals dam at Mountain Home. The dam is seen in the background and a blue sky is overhead. A fishing boat is in the foreground. A guide from Gaston’s White River Resort and a father each hold fishing poles that have been cast into the water. Two young boys wearing life jackets sit inside the boat. Photo source: James Moore.
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The best dam fishing near Mountain Home, Arkansas, is on the White River near the Bull Shoals Dam. Bass and trout are the mainstays, and there are tons to catch here. Boat rentals are also available. Photo by James Moore.
An outdoor setting on a lake near Mountain Home, Arkansas. The photograph is taken from overhead looking into the lake water. A young boy with blonde hair wearing orange swim trunks is seen jumping into the water. His arms are in the air and his legs are tucked in a chair position. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
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Who needs swimming pools when you have swimming holes! Mountain Home, Arkansas is a lakeside getaway where the whole family can cut loose and act natural. Photo by Magnetic Creative.
A lake setting near Mountain Home, Arkansas. Blue sky and green-tree hills are seen in the background. Blue water and white wake fill the rest of the photograph. A girl is seen on a board surfing in the wake. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
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Leave the weekdays in your wake! Spend a weekend in Mountain Home, Arkansas and try something new, like wakeboarding on a beautiful summer day. Photo by Magnetic Creative.
A downtown setting in Mountain Home, Arkansas. A restored building houses a brewery and restaurant. The sign painted across the top of the building reads Rapp’s Barren Brewing Co. An outdoor, covered patio is seen on the second floor. Cars and trucks are parked along the front of the building’s downtown Main Street-style setting. A colorful mural that reads Greetings from Mtn Home is seen on the side of the building that is not attached to the rest of the downtown district buildings. Photo source: James Moo
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Downtown in Mountain Home, Arkansas, you’ll find all kinds of local charm from craft wares to craft brews, live music, events and more. Rapp’s Barren Brewing is a popular night spot and gastropub. Photo by James Moore.
A lake setting near Mountain Home, Arkansas. Water, shoreline and green hills are seen in the background. In the foreground a woman is on a yoga mat on a dock. She is dressed in black yoga pants and a black cropped top with a Y necklace. She is in Cobra pose, posturing toward the sun. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
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You’ll find water, sky, shore and quiet in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Photo by Magnetic Creative.
A lake setting near Mountain Home, Arkansas. Water, shoreline and green hills are seen in the background. In the foreground two women are seen on yoga mats on a dock. Each wears black yoga pants, one with a cropped black T-shirt and one with a mauve sleeveless top. They are standing with feet spread hip-width apart and one arm raised toward the sky. Photo source: Magnetic Creative.
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A relaxing trip to Mountain Home, Arkansas is good for mind, body and soul. With hundreds of miles of shoreline and waterfront views, there’s plenty of space to make it your own. Photo by Magnetic Creative.

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