Arkansas may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about hiking, biking, kayaking, or any other form of outdoor recreation, but perhaps it should be. This southern belle of a state possesses richly varied landscapes, from prairies and deltas in the southeast, to the mighty Ozark Mountains in the northwest. Arkansas is a wonderful destination for year-round recreation as the temperatures rarely exceed 80 degrees or drop below 40, and the weather tends to be sunny more often than not.

The most popular part of Arkansas for outdoor recreation is the Ozark Mountains, located in the northwestern part of the state. This majestic mountain range is the ideal place to escape to the mountains without having to drive long distances. Within these mountains there are ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, whitewater kayaking, and scenic driving. Take a day hike on the Eagle Rock Loop trail, backpack for a month on the Ouachita Trail, or explore the 150-mile-long Ozark Highlands Trail. Ride your mountain bike in Devil's Den State Park, or along the Womble Trail. Grab your kayak and enjoy some of the 9,000 miles of streams and waterways that criss-cross Arkansas, like Cedar Creek or Clear Creek. The magnificent Buffalo National River winds through the northern part of the state near the border with Missouri. Or if you're just looking to enjoy some views, drive along the Arkansas Highway 7 Scenic Byway.

No matter what activities you prefer for outdoor recreation, you'll be sure to find what you're looking for in Arkansas. Whether you start your adventure from Little Rock, Pine Bluff, Fayetteville, or Glenwood, you will not be disappointed with your time in Arkansas.