Hike the Buffalo Month

November is recognized as “Hike the Buffalo Month” by the Harrison Convention & Visitors Bureau in partnership with the North Arkansas Partnership for Health Education and Healthy Kids Healthy Ozarks program.

A different hike will be featured each Saturday in November with a guide taking you to each location and hiking with you throughout the day. The goal is also to show people how easy it is to access great hiking trails in the Buffalo National River area. The Buffalo became the nation’s first national river 40 years ago in 1972 and is known for its incredible beauty whether from river level or from high on the bluffs above looking down to the valley and water below.

November is a great month to hike because temperatures are ideal and the first frost has taken care of most of the insects.

Community leaders will help lead the hikes, which will start each morning at 8 a.m. The departure point will be the 1929 Hotel Seville in downtown Harrison. Hikers meet at the hotel and carpool to the trailhead. Allow a minimum of three hours for hiking, plus travel time.

Each trail is rated easy, so all ages are welcome. Partners in the program want to encourage families to be more active, and therefore healthier. Hiking is a great way to exercise, and at the same time have quality family time. The trails selected are for all fitness levels, and hikers are encouraged to go their own pace.

Wear comfortable, warm clothing in layers so you can easily add or decrease layers as the day heats up or gets cooler. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring water, snacks and a lunch. Pack all in a small backpack for easy transport.