Essential supplies for conquering the fall wilderness in the Natural State.
THE CONSERVATION REPORT
The Outdoor Alliance Grasstops Collective fights to conserve Arkansas’s wilderness.
Make a Campfire OldFashioned featuring Arkansas- made Rocktown Rice Bourbon. 20 WILD CANVAS
A sanctuary within the bustle of Little Rock, Chris Hyriack’s garden blooms year-round. Photography by Sara Reeves. 38 END OF THE TRAIL
Experience the beauty of Arkansas’s night through sound.
NATURE'S PASSPORT
Experience the distinct charm of mountain towns in Arkansas.
Autumn hunts and timeless memories from Grandma’s mountain cabin.
ON THE COVER: Autumn colors shine through at Garvan Gardens in Hot Springs, one of the many places to experience fall in The Natural State. Photo courtesy of Visit Hot Springs.
BROOKE WALLACE Publisher brooke@arktimes.com
LESA THOMAS Senior Account Executive
MIKE SPAIN Advertising Art Director
ARKANSAS WILD
BECCA BONA Editor-in-Chief becca@arktimes.com
LUIS GARCIAROSSI Senior Account Executive
KATIE HASSELL Art Director/Digital Manager
JACKSON GLADDEN Circulation Director
WELDON WILSON Conroller
SARA REEVES
Sara Reeves is a commercial photographer based in Little Rock. She has been exploring Arkansas with her cameras for over 20 years, telling countless colorful stories of the places we roam and the fascinating people we meet along the way.
MANDY KEENER Creative Director mandy@arktimes.com
EVAN ETHRIDGE Account Executive
ROLAND R. GLADDEN Advertising Traffic Manager
ROBERT CURFMAN IT Director
ALAN LEVERITT President
CONTRIBUTORS
JIM PETERSEN
Jim Petersen’s fondness for nature grew from tromping around the Black Hills of western South Dakota. He has spent most of his professional life as a scientist studying and writing about the streams and lakes of the Ozarks. He is currently a freelance writer/editor and lives in Little Rock.
BRI PETERSON
Bri Peterson is a mixed media artist and creative educator based in Little Rock. She has exhibited artwork throughout Arkansas and California. Her next exhibit will take place at the Thea Foundation on Thursday, June 6, 2024. You can find her on Instagram @ bumble_bri_artwork.
CALEB PATTON Managing Editor caleb@arktimes.com
MECHELLE WINSLOW Account Executive
MADELINE CHOSICH Digital Marketing Manager
CHARLOTTE KEY Administration
JASON CLENNEY
Jason Clenney is a recovering perfectionist, culture champion, and servant leader with executive leadership expertise in health care. He grew up in the Ouachitas and visits his favorite stretch of woods every chance he gets. When not working, you can find him gardening or spending time with loved ones.
STACEY BOWERS
North Little Rock native Stacey Bowers is a writer, arts lover and jewelry designer who found joy in learning about the quirks of glassworking in this issue. You can follow her work online through @bangupbetty on Instagram and bangupbetty.com.
GFROM the editor Crisp Air, Warm Hearts
reetings, Arkansas Wild readers, it’s pumpkin-patch-goin’, sweater-weather-donnin’, apple-pickin’ weather. It’s the time of year when the leaves put on a show, if we’re lucky (and the “Farmer’s Almanac” reports that at least the River Valley and Northwest Arkansas should be lucky). If you time it right, you can catch brilliant golds, ruby reds and burnt orange-sienna shades from the Boston Mountains all the way down to the Delta from mid-September to early-December.
Fall always feels like a season of change to me. More so than spring, summer and winter. Time feels slower, more intentional. For me, an Arkansas Wild fall is about embracing nature’s symphonies. It begs you to revisit those familiar hikes that lead to your favorite vistas, alive with a sunset show. It’s about local lore, spooky stories and legends that make a campfire’s glow all the more haunting (or welcoming — you decide). Autumn is a season for embracing all The Natural State has to offer — no matter how “outdoorsy” you are. (Hey, baking a pie with locally grown apples counts in my eyes, folks.)
There’s something primal in this season. The hunt is on for venison and, not long after, for fowl. Learning about the foodways and traditions of our homesteading ancestors is a fascinating but inherently fall task. I’m doing all that while catching the best fall fairs, festivals and activities. Arkansas fall this year includes my following obsessions:
Fair Game. Truly, whether you love a corndog, turkey leg or funnel cake — there are county fairs, the Arkansas State Fair and heritage festivals that take the state by storm this season. Sure, the rides are fun, but celebrating the agricultural and craft roots of The Natural State is what it’s truly about. Catch me trying all the best jams and jellies (after I ride the merry-go-round, for safety).
Maze Craze and Pumpkin Days. There’s something refreshingly wholesome about heading to a pumpkin patch, getting lost in a corn maze or going on a hayride, no matter your age. Sure, these are family-friendly activities, but they’re seasonal and deserve to be savored. Plus, they provide a pathway to connect back with the land.
Upward Bound. Honestly, Arkansas is a gem of a state from a nature lover’s perspective (and plenty of other reasons). Pick your favorite mountain range — the Ozarks or the Ouachitas. Either way, you’ll find me on the trail, looking for familiar trails and pathways I haven’t yet traveled.
I’ve made a goal to spend time in quaint Arkansas downtown squares I haven’t truly explored before, and we’ve got plenty to choose from. I’m leaning into intentionality this season. Here’s to collecting cozy memories and seeing sights that photographs can’t quite capture.
Becca Bona Editor-in-Chief
Becca’s Current Obsessions
GEAR GUIDE ROOTS AND RAMBLES
FALL GEAR ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR NEXT ARKANSAS OUTING..
We’re dreaming of crisp air, early morning hikes, glorious fall foliage and bagging bucks worth writing home about. Whether you’re hunting in the Ozarks, hiking the scenic trails or simply soaking in the valleys and bluffs, our curated gear guide ensures you're prepared for every adventure. From essential hunting tools to must-have hiking gear, plus a few camping necessities, we’ve got everything you need to make the most of this season. Get ready to enjoy the outdoors your way with gear that meets every challenge.
Here are five must-have items to consider this autumn:
Hiking on mountain time. The Garmin Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar is the ideal GPS watch for hikers, designed to excel on the trail. Its rugged construction and scratchresistant Power Sapphire solar charging lens ensure it can withstand the toughest outdoor conditions, while the solar power extends battery life, keeping your watch charged even on long hikes. With advanced GPS tracking, topographic maps and built-in health monitoring features, this watch provides everything you need to navigate and stay safe on your journey. Whether you're tackling a mountain or exploring new trails, the Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar keeps you connected and on track. If this one is out of your price range, you can always check out the Garmin Instinct 2. Get yours at Ozark Outdoor Supply in Little Rock.
Photographing the path less taken. The Canon EOS R50 is the ideal hiking companion for capturing the vibrant colors of Arkansas’s glorious fall foliage. Lightweight and compact, this mirrorless camera features a 24.2MP APS-C sensor and DIGIC X image processor, delivering stunning image quality even in challenging light. Its fast Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system covers nearly the entire frame, ensuring you never miss a moment. The Vari-Angle Touch Screen allows for creative shots from any angle, making it easy to document the beauty of your favorite Arkansas autumn landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, the Canon EOS R50 offers a powerful blend of portability, precision and ease of use, making it the perfect gear for your fall adventures. Get yours from Bedford Camera in Little Rock or Fayetteville. (PRO TIP: Find a staff member who specializes in nature photography to help get you started. Bedford also occasionally offers classes for beginners as well.)
Safety first. The Adventure First Aid 1.0 is a compact and comprehensive kit designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Weighing just 8 oz and measuring 5" x 6.5" x 1", it’s perfect for treating a range of common injuries during short trips. Ideal for 1-2 people on day-long adventures, the kit includes supplies for cuts, scrapes, sprains, insect bites, and more. Essential items like fabric bandages, gauze dressings, moleskin for blisters, medications, and survival tools like a mini rescue whistle and compass are all included. Be prepared for any minor mishap with the Adventure First Aid 1.0. Find yours at Pack Rat Outdoor Center in Fayetteville.
First aid ready, adventure steady!
Find fall’s brilliance on the trail.
Cool threads for hot hunts
Though we crave the crisp fall air, the reality is that early-season hunting can still feel a bit toasty. The Natural Gear Uninsulated Bib is an exceptional choice for warm-weather hunting, offering balanced comfort, durability and functionality. Crafted from a durable 60/40 cotton-poly blend with rip-stop stretch material, this lightweight bib allows for unrestricted movement, making it ideal for navigating dense brush or crouching in a blind. The adjustable shoulder straps provide a customizable fit, while the buttonadjust sides ensure the bib stays in place throughout your hunt. With a convenient zippered fly, cargo pockets and a large chest pocket, all your essentials are easily accessible. Grab yours from Fort Thompson Sporting in North Little Rock.
Toast to the great outdoors. “Camp Cocktails” is your ultimate guide to crafting simple yet flavorful drinks for any outdoor adventure. Whether you're cooling off after a hike with a Flask Boulevardier or warming up by the campfire with a Salted Nutella Hot Chocolate, this book offers a variety of recipes that bring a touch of sophistication to the wilderness. With easy-to-follow instructions and expert tips, you can mix everything from beer-based cocktails to foraged ingredient drinks. Perfect for cabin trips, camping or patio parties, this 192-page hardcover book makes outdoor imbibing fun and effortless. Find yours at the Freckled Hen in Fayetteville.
Rifle through the woods to bag your buck.
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed 7mm Precision Rifle Cartridge (PRC) 20" Ovix is a top-tier hunting rifle designed for precision and reliability. The adjustable Feather Trigger offers a crisp pull for enhanced shot placement. Additional features include a detachable rotary magazine, Inflex Technology recoil pad, and a free-floating barrel, all contributing to its exceptional performance. For hunters seeking a rugged and advanced rifle, the X-Bolt 2 Speed 7mm PRC is an excellent choice. Get yours at Mack’s Prairie Wings.
But first, coffee fire. The Coffee Campfire Starter is the perfect companion for outdoor enthusiasts. Hand-made from all-natural, recycled coffee grounds and organic beeswax, each 4.2 oz tin contains 8 fire starters that ignite your fire quickly, burning for over 10 minutes each. Housed in a reusable tin, these fire starters are convenient to take on the go. Plus, they are plastic and petroleum-free, ensuring your commitment to the environment extends beyond the firepit. Whether you’re camping or enjoying a backyard fire, the Coffee Campfire Starter makes kindling a breeze. Find it at Domestic Domestic.
Right on target. The 2024 Mathews Lift 29.5 Compound Bow is a lightweight yet powerful hunting bow weighing under 4 pounds. This particular model boasts the new SwitchWeight-X Cam, delivering impressive speeds up to 348 FPS while maintaining a quiet shot. The Lift features reimagined RPD limbs to reduce post-shot vibration and a new top axle system for enhanced stability. The Lift is versatile and precise, with adjustable draw weights from 55-80 pounds and draw lengths ranging 24.5-31.5 inches. Equipped with MATCH bowstrings, it eliminates stretch and ensures consistent performance. The integrated Shot Sense module also provides real-time shot analytics, making it a top choice for serious bowhunters. Get it at DNW Outdoors in Jonesboro. (PRO TIP: This item is available for purchase instore only; however, take your time and talk to the experts in their archery department. They won’t lead you astray.)
With these essential items in your pack, you're ready to explore The Natural State on the rivers, lakes or hills this summer.
Happy outdoorsing!
Gather ‘round, autumn’s stories start with a flame.
The Future of Your Arkansas Wild
BY TRACI BERRY
Ample hiking opportunities await in Arkansas’s wilderness, where the Outdoor Alliance Grasstops Collective advocates for preserving public lands and outdoor recreation for future generations.
VISIT
HOT SPRINGS
rkansas showcases a wealth of natural beauty, from its rugged mountains and rolling valleys to its winding rivers, shimmering lakes and expansive Delta. According to outdoor advocates, the call to preserve natural treasures in The Natural State has never been more urgent. The Outdoor Alliance, a nonprofit coalition of natural advocacy groups, aims to unite the voices of outdoor enthusiasts to conserve public lands. Traci Berry, an Outdoor Alliance Grasstops Collective member, embodies this call.
An Arkansas native, Berry has served as the Northwoods Trails coordinator since it opened in Hot Springs in 2018. Her background in agritourism and passion for Arkansas’s wilderness make her a perfect candidate to advocate for Arkansas’s greenspaces.
The Outdoor Alliance Grasstops Collective is a unique initiative designed to equip local leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to advocate for conservation policies. These leaders, affectionately dubbed “unofficial mayors” by Berry, are the voices that resonate most deeply in their communities. They are the ones who know every trailhead, every bend in the river and every crag worth climbing. Their influence extends beyond personal networks, creating a ripple effect that spreads awareness and action across their communities. In fact, the Grasstops Collective
aims to train more than 100 leaders in the next five years. The extensive training includes six months complete with advocacy visits to Washington, D.C., and meetings with local and federal decision-makers who touch the recreation and outdoor economy spaces. The goal is multipronged but clear: to influence vital policy decisions in a way that conserves public lands, confronts climate change and promotes outdoor recreation. In Arkansas, Berry and two other ambassadors — Ammen Jordan and Andrew Blann — are answering the call to conservation via the Grasstops Collective. The inaugural cohort is determined to ensure that the natural part of “The Natural State” stays protected for generations to come. The Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act (EXPLORE Act), a bipartisan effort designed to update outdoor recreation policies and designed as a companion to the America’s Outdoor Recreation Act, is at the forefront of these efforts. The EXPLORE Act is a significant piece of legislation co-sponsored by Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Raúl Grijalva (D-Ariz.). It passed the House in April 2024, but has lost momentum in the Senate.
As a state rich in natural beauty, from the Ouachita Mountains to the vast forests and rivers, outdoor recreation is not just a pastime, but a vital part of the state’s economy and culture. “Arkansas’s second-leading industry is tourism,” Berry said, “and a large portion of our tourism comes
Autumn in full glory exudes the natural beauty of Arkansas, a reminder of the landscapes the Outdoor Alliance Grasstops Collective is dedicated to conserving.
from our outdoor recreation opportunities. Our state is no longer a ‘hidden gem.’ Folks know about us now.”
Along this vein, the EXPLORE Act aims to meet the growing demand for outdoor activities by improving the management of public lands, making them easier and safer to access. A key part of the act, the Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act, eases the permitting process for outdoor guides, allowing more Arkansans to explore the state’s wilderness safely. Additionally, the act includes provisions like rebuilding the Albert Pike Campground in the Ouachitas, which still has scars from a devastating flood in 2010, highlighting its focus on protecting Arkansas’s natural heritage and promoting responsible recreation.
In Berry’s mind, responsible recreation also includes monitoring development. “With being ‘discovered,’ we have more people moving into our beautiful state, and with that comes more development,” Berry said. “It is critical that we conserve and protect our green spaces and natural areas for them to be enjoyed for generations.”
Berry has seen the power of the outdoors firsthand. Since the Northwoods Trails opened in 2018, Berry has watched them transform the community. Participation in the local National Interscholastic Cycling Association team has doubled, and the number of women using the trails has surged. The trails have attracted new residents to Hot Springs and fostered personal growth and healing.
“I’ve heard stories of people overcoming addiction through mountain biking on our trails,” Berry said. “I’ve seen partnerships and marriages grow stronger through shared outdoor activities. The trails have undeniably increased the quality of life in Hot Springs.”
These stories underscore the profound impact of access to the outdoors on individuals and communities. Berry believes that preserving Arkansas’s natural beauty is not just the responsibility of policymakers and advocates — it’s a collective effort. Berry urges everyone to support the EXPLORE Act.
“Write or call your member of Congress,” she said. “Share a personal story about why outdoor access is important to you. The Outdoor Alliance makes it easy with a prewritten email on their website, but the more you customize it, the greater impact it will have.”
Conservation extends beyond protecting the land; in Arkansas, it’s about preserving the rich cultural fabric deeply connected to the natural world. Here, where nature and community are woven together, this mission has never been more essential.
Rice and Shine, Trailheads
A BOURBON LOVER’S GUIDE TO THE TRAIL
By CALEB PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA REEVES
As the seasons change and the call of nature morphs from vibrant emeralds to the soft palates of burgundy, chartreuse and terracotta, we seek warmth and comfort. An evening spent by the campfire in the crisp air of autumn calls for a classic cocktail with a slight seasonal twist. Enter Arkansas-made Rocktown Distillery and its Arkansas Rice Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
The velvety blend of burnt, buttery popcorn folds into Rocktown’s Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup, then cut by familiar Angostura bitters and finished with a simple orange peel. As the firelight illuminates this liquid amber concoction, you’ll be warmed both inside and out by this Campfire Old-Fashioned.
Made possible by Rocktown’s partnership with Isbell Farms, a multigenerational rice grower in Central Arkansas, the bourbon quality is unlike any you’ve ever had. Rich, smooth and light, you’ll want to keep sipping this one slowly so it never ends.
“When I pick a spirit, the first place I start is the notes of what I’m tasting. I’m looking for those classic fall flavors, with a touch of sweet and a little twist,” says Abby Rogne, the new assistant bar manager at Rocktown. Creating a classic, easily “batchable” cocktail may seem simple, but finding that balance of flavors is like wearing the right pair of shoes for the trail.
Without preparation and thought, you’ll be left wallowing in a subpar trek and treat. So, while you wistfully gaze at the stars, warmed by both drink and firelight, you can look forward to more in the following years with Rocktown, including its latest batch barreled with Arkansas-made staves sourced from our backyards.
The cooler weather’s calling. It’s time to lace up, pack out and swing by Rocktown Distillery on your way to the trail for a bottle of its Rice Straight Bourbon. Stay warm, friends.
CAMPFIRE OLD-FASHIONED
Ingredients:
• 2 ounces Rocktown Rice Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• ¼ ounce Rocktown Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel
Directions:
• Combine your syrup, whiskey, and bitters in an airtight container.
• Once you've set up camp, pour into a cup and stir well.
• Garnish with an orange peel and enjoy a refreshing fruit snack.
Or maybe an exciting adventure to share.
We'd love to consider your stories and tall tales of Arkansas.
Email our editor, Becca Bona becca@arktimes.com.
SONGS OF THE WILD
SCIENCE MEETS ART IN ARKANSAS’S NIGHTTIME SOUNDSCAPES.
By Jim Petersen
For several years now, I’ve become increasingly aware of the sounds of the Arkansas night. Part of that began to bubble up while spending too many nights in small motels away from home with time on my hands. To fully enjoy the sounds of the Arkansas night — summer, fall, winter and spring — I decided to sit back, relax and listen. Time waits for no one, but it can be cyclic. Sounds of the Arkansas night repeat from one year to the next — if you only listen. Cicadas and katydids of summer yield to the crickets and elk of fall, which yield to the wild geese and coyotes of early winter. And so on. If you only listen.
SUMMER
As the heat of summer kicks in, I hear the familiar drone of cicadas during the day. Their buzzing tapers off as night darkens and is replaced by the loud, staccato chirps of katydids. On cooler and damper summer nights, the katydids and air-conditioning units quiet down, allowing the quieter crickets to take over. Those
cooler and damper nights are frequently the result of summer storms that bring thunder and cooling rain. With a summer breeze, raindrops will fall from the damp overhead leaves hours after the storm has passed.
FALL
Fall is one of the quieter times in Arkansas at night — much quieter than summer and spring. Gone for the most part are the cicadas and katydids of summer. The sound of raindrops falling on green leaves is replaced by the rattle of raindrops bouncing off drying leaves. Once the leaves fall to the ground, nocturnal animal movements are more noticeable. Moving into fall, the sound of crickets (which were there during the late summer, too) takes center stage. In the summer, the crickets played a supporting role; quieter background notes played against the loud cacophony of cicadas and katydids. By the fall, the crickets will have sole billing. The crickets play a more refined and simpler tune than the brash sounds of cicadas and
Sounds of the Arkansas night repeat from one year to the next — if you only listen.
katydids. Lately, I’ve noticed that I have come to associate their sound with sweet memories of late fall fishing trips when I tried to eke out a few more moments of daylight before leaving the fish to their distractions.
In parts of northern Arkansas, the sounds of crickets are scarcely noticed due to the “goings on” of bull elk bugling. While many of the fall night sounds are subtle, elk bugling is anything but. Male elk bugle to advertise their presence and dominance to other male elk and cow elk. The bugle is a loud, high-pitched but guttural whistle. It has an eerie, haunting quality that cuts through any evening breezes. Its sound can carry more than a mile. Once you hear it, you’ll never forget the sound. Late September through October are prime times to hear bull elk bugle in the evenings.
You might find it worth putting yourself in the right place at the right time for such a sound. Prime places include Boxley Valley and Erbie in the western part of the Buffalo National River southwest of Harrison. Prime time is in September and October.
WINTER
In the winter, absent the quiet sounds of the occasional sound-muffling snowfall, sounds are mainly limited to hooting owls, howling coyotes
and night winds. For me, there is something about an owl call that simultaneously stirs feelings of loneliness, peacefulness and simplicity. And if it’s been a warm fall, you might hear the high-altitude squawking of cranes and geese as they belatedly head south for the winter.
SPRING
As the seasons turn to late winter and early spring, I await the first warm rain of the season. After that rain I purposely make my way to a wet area to hear the symphony of the first harbingers of spring — the spring peepers. Spring peepers are small frogs that begin to peep in chorus after the first warm rain.
As spring progresses into summer, you can hear the call of the chuck-will’s-widow. Its call gives this secretive bird its name. You’ll also begin to hear the call of Blanchard’s cricket frogs and bullfrogs. Cricket frogs have a distinctive call that sounds like small stones rattling each other around. Bullfrogs supply the bass backdrop for many of the other frog calls.
Well, back to summer again. What has been will be again; there is nothing new under the sun. I’m looking forward to the drone of the cicadas and katydids. I’m ready to slow down, relax and listen. Aren’t you?
NATURE’S PASSPORT ELEVATED LIVING
A ROUND-UP OF MOUNTAIN TOWN MAGIC IN THE NATURAL STATE
By Stacey Bowers
When you hear the words “mountain town,” it’s easy to get lost in thoughts of snowy peaks, winding curves and sleepy town squares. In Arkansas, mountain towns have a personality all their own. What we lack in snow-capped cliffs, we make up for in surprises, be they bluegrass jam sessions, hidden breweries or spooky art installations. Mountain towns are Arkansas’s best-kept secrets.
MOUNTAIN VIEW
Mountain View is arguably the epicenter of bluegrass in The Natural State, boasting regular Friday and Saturday night free concerts at its incredibly quaint town square. It’s, where you’ll find great crafts and antiques at local boutiques, Mountain View Music if you want to take a little of the Ozark sound home with you, and kitschy diners like PJ’s Rainbow Cafe, which has been a staple of the square since the 1930s. Take advantage of all the outdoor activities Mountain View has to offer, like North Sylamore Creek Trail for waterfall hiking; Syllamo Mountain Bike Trail, with over 50 miles of novice-to-advanced cycling trails; Blanchard Springs Caverns and its winding cave system glowing with spotlit stalactites and stalagmites; Gunner Pool Recreation Area, with access to great campsites and spectacular swimming holes; and, if you’d rather enjoy the outdoors from a comfortable seat, dinner on the deck at Gaston’s White River Resort offers stunning views of the White River, which is eerily beautiful when an evening mist rolls in.
DON’T MISS: The Mountain View Bluegrass Festival, Nov. 7-9. Get your tickets at mountainview-bluegrass.com. Fall foliage typically peaks in late October to early November.
Gaston's White River Resort
Did you know?
Calico Rock derives its name from the distinctively patterned bluffs by the White River, whose natural colors mirror those of calico cloth.
CALICO ROCK
Just 30 minutes north of Mountain View, the little town of Calico Rock is a hidden gem dotted with unconventional — and sometimes macabre — surprises. The downtown is small but packed with great finds, like the Calico Rock Museum and Visitor Center, which houses a collection of artifacts from the prehistoric era to the 1960s, an artisan gift shop, and Cooper’s Antiques and Collectibles if you want a piece of history as a souvenir. Take a walk a block behind Main into Peppersauce Alley to take your photo inside the little brick City Jail, then turn left on Walnut Street, and you’ll find the Jennings Mortuary, a lurid abandoned building-turned-art installation of grim humor advertising “YOU STAB ’EM, WE SLAB ’EM.” Finish your tour of downtown Calico Rock with a stop at Juniper’s Back Door, a speakeasy-esque bar with live music.
DON’T MISS: Living Windows on Main Street, Dec. 14. When the sun sets, see the storefront windows of Main Street light up with immersive holiday displays where costumed performers act out scenes.
LESLIE
About halfway between Jonesboro and Fayetteville, Leslie is the must-stop small town you’ve probably never heard of. Homesteaded initially by pioneers migrating westward from the Appalachians, Leslie was first surveyed by Herbert Hoover in the late 19th century and boasts less than 500 residents today. Anyone who knows the town sings the praises of the Skylark Cafe, which is locally famous for its desserts and healthy lunch offerings. Leslie is a foodie hotspot, boasting one of the best bakeries in the state, Serenity Farm Bread, and a farm-to-table hidden breakfast gem, Crooked Gate Farm and Cafe. Leslie’s artisan heart extends beyond the kitchen, with unique shops that sell Arkansas-made goods and feature local artists: Brick House Artisans, Oak and Main Used Books and More, Ozark Heritage Center and Museum, and The Little Hill Shop. Mountain towns are some of the best places to antique, and Leslie delivers with Leslie Antique Mall and an enthralling antique store downtown called Antiques And.
DON’T MISS: The fall foliage typically peaks in mid-tolate October. Traverse Stem Rock Trail, an easy 1.4-mile in-and-out trail that is good for all levels and offers epic vistas.
Calico Rock
Jennings Mortuary, Calico Rock
Skylark Cafe, Leslie
White Rock Mountain, Winslow
Did you know?
Known for being the highest railroad pass on the St. Louis–San Francisco Railway between the Rocky and Appalachian Mountains, Winslow's elevation made it a sought-after summer getaway for years.
WINSLOW
In Washington County, near the Oklahoma border, you can get an unbeatable view of the changing leaves in the Boston Mountains by taking the leisurely roundtrip Winslow-to-Van Buren passenger train with the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad. Opt for the 1940s-style cars with glass dome roofs and enjoy the mountainside from a different perspective. When the train returns to the station, use Winslow as your home base to explore the scenery. Take your bike to Fossil Flats Trail or pitch a tent at White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground.
DON’T MISS: The year-round Winslow Farmers Market is held every Saturday at the Winslow Depot. Fall foliage typically peaks in late October to early November.
Jacob Wolf House, Norfork
NORFORK
A short drive northwest of Calico Rock, you’ll discover Norfork, where your tastebuds will thank you. Much of mountain town Arkansas is dry county territory, but things get wet in Baxter County, where Norfork and one of the Ozarks’ only breweries are located. Visit the taproom at Norfork Brewing Company and order a flight of Ozarks-themed brews, then grab a six-pack before you venture into another dry county. Don't miss the Jacob Wolf House, built in 1829 as Izard County's first courthouse. Now a museum, visitors can explore its history and role as a Trail of Tears Interpretive Center.
DON’T MISS : Fishing for gargantuan trout year-round. Norfork, situated at the convergence of the North Fork and White rivers, held the world record for brown trout for many years and is home to the Norfork National Fish Hatchery. Fall foliage typically peaks in late September to early October.
Exploring the State’s Unique Outdoor Pursuits
RALLYCROSS, FORAGING AND URBAN GARDENING REDEFINE YOUR AUTUMN.
BY BECCA BONA
With its many trails, rivers and peaks, The Natural State begs traditional outdoor activities like hiking, hunting and camping. Yet, there are so many alternative ways to find connection with Mother Nature. Whether it’s the adrenaline-fueled rush of rallycross through the Ozarks, the quiet, meditative pursuit of foraging in the forest’s understory or the cultivation of green oases in urban gardens, these activities offer fresh perspectives on what it means to experience the outdoors in Arkansas.
This article explores how rallycross allows drivers to connect with the rugged terrain, how foraging opens up a deeper appreciation for the state’s rich biodiversity and how urban gardening, on the other hand, brings the beauty of nature to city dwellers, creating green spaces that nourish both body and soul. Read on for more.
SOWING IN SMALL PLACES
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA REEVES
Urban farming offers a unique opportunity for city dwellers to reconnect with the land, even in the smallest of spaces. As Chris Hyriack, an avid urban farmer based in Central Arkansas, shares, the beauty of gardening lies in its accessibility and the deep connection it fosters between people and nature.
“It starts with that first plot or that first small garden,” Hyriack said. “Be careful, though, because it can spiral out of control.” He first started urban farming over 20 years ago, largely because he witnessed the work his neighbor was able to accomplish in his backyard. Hyriack set to work with a small 10-feet-by-20-feet garden, which eventually blossomed into an urban farm that spans nearly an acre, filled with native plants, vegetables and greenhouses. His journey highlights that anyone can start small and still significantly impact their health and community.
“A lot of folks think gardening ends in August, but there’s so much you can do in the fall,” he said. In Arkansas, with its long growing season, the opportunities are abundant. “By August, you should be preparing for your fall crops,” Hyriack advises. “It never really stops; there’s always something to plant or harvest.”
Fall is the perfect time to plant leafy greens, root vegetables and even some late-season tomatoes. Hyriack emphasizes the importance of using high-quality compost and mulch to prepare the soil, ensuring that the garden thrives even as the weather cools.
Hyriack’s approach to urban farming is holistic, emphasizing the physical benefits and the mental and emotional well-being of working the soil. “Horticultural therapy is real,” he says. “It’s the physical activity of gardening that’s beneficial, but it’s also about the environment you create around you. Just having a space filled with plants can be incredibly calming.”
Hyriack is passionate about making gardening accessible to everyone, from those with large backyards to those with just a small balcony. He’s even crafted cedar boxes on casters to allow for mobile container gardening, perfect for urban spaces. For Hyriack, the act of gardening goes beyond just growing food — it’s about creating a sanctuary.
“Even in a small space, you can create a refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life,” he says. “It doesn’t feel like I’m in the middle of the city when I’m in my garden. It’s a slice of heaven.”
There’s an avid, active community of urban gardeners and farmers across The Natural State. “Gardening has allowed us to interact with so many folks in our neighborhood that we might not have otherwise,” he said. Whether it’s trading vegetables with neighbors or sharing gardening tips, the sense of connection is strong. “There’s something about gardening that attracts people — it’s very instinctual. We feel safe in a garden, surrounded by life and abundance.”
Hyriack offers simple yet powerful advice for those new to urban farming: Start small and enjoy the journey.
“There’s incredible success to be had by just putting some seeds in the soil and trying,” he said. “Fall is often overlooked, but it’s one of the best times to garden. So get out there, start small and see where it takes you.”
Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a few feet of balcony space, the potential for growth — both of plants and of personal well-being — is immense.
Chris Hyriack tends to his Central Arkansas urban farm, where even a small plot of land can flourish into a thriving oasis of native plants and fresh produce.
"IT DOESN ' T FEEL LIKE I ' M IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CITY WHEN I ' M IN MY GARDEN. IT ' S A SLICE OF HEAVEN." - CHRIS HYRIACK
HIDDEN HARVEST
PHOTOGRAPHY
Get ready to stalk the wild side — mushroom foraging turns a walk in the woods into a treasure hunt. In The Natural State, where the landscape is rich with diverse flora, mushroom foraging has gained interest, particularly among those seeking to connect more deeply with the natural world. Jay Justice, senior epidemiologist at the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality and president of the Arkansas Mycological Society, emphasizes the importance of learning from experts when starting out.
“Seek out at least one individual who is a recognized and bona fide expert in identifying mushrooms in Arkansas,” he said. This knowledge is crucial, as correctly identifying mushrooms can be the difference between a delightful meal and a dangerous mistake.
BY SARA REEVES
but foraging made us focus on what’s around us in a way we hadn’t before.”
Their foraging journey led them to attend workshops and classes, including one led by Justice. “The first class we took with Jay was specifically for morel hunting,” Vess recalled. Morels are highly prized for their unique flavor but are notoriously difficult to find.
"IT ' S LIKE
A
TREASURE HUNT - YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN YOU ' LL FIND SOMETHING."
“In Arkansas, there’s nothing that looks like a morel that is poisonous,” Vess said, making them a safer choice for beginners. The couple often travels to the Ozarks during morel seasons, as the terrain and conditions are ideal for finding these elusive mushrooms.“It’s like a treasure hunt,” Tanner said, “You never know when you’ll find something.”
Justice highlights some of the more common and easily identifiable mushrooms in Arkansas, such as chanterelles, oyster mushrooms, and puffballs, which are popular among local foragers. “Chanterelles are the most common and widespread edible mushrooms in Arkansas,” he said. “They have a lengthy growing season, from June to September, and are easy for most folks to learn how to distinguish from a couple of look-alikes.”
- RACHEL TANNER
One of their most memorable foraging experiences was during a dry season when mushrooms were scarce. Despite the conditions, Tanner made an incredible find: a massive Chicken of the Woods mushroom growing along the side of a dirt road. “At first, I thought it was trash, like Styrofoam or something,” she laughed. “But when I got closer, I realized it was this huge, vibrant mushroom. It was like finding a seven-point buck in the mushroom world.”
However, Justice cautions against relying on AI apps for identification, as misidentifying a mushroom can have serious consequences. “When in doubt, throw it out,” he advises, echoing the time-tested wisdom of seasoned foragers.
For novices like Justin Vess and Rachel Tanner, mushroom foraging has become a way to connect with the outdoors in a meaningful and fulfilling way. Vess became a Master Gardener, and afterward was interested in learning even more about the local naturescapes around him. Both Vess and Tanner are Arkansas natives, and they initially began foraging as an extension of their casual hiking, but quickly found themselves drawn deeper into the practice.
“We always say it’s kind of like our version of hunting,” Tanner said, referencing their vegetarian lifestyle. For them, the thrill of the hunt isn’t about the kill but about discovering and harvesting wild food from the land. Vess added, “We were used to being outdoors for fun,
The find was the highlight of the foray, and other seasoned foragers celebrated with her, offering recipes and tips on preparing the mushroom. “I felt like a superstar,” Tanner said, beaming at the memory.
The couple’s passion for foraging extends beyond the hunt itself. They have become active members of the local foraging community, attending regular forays and participating in group events.
“The community around mushroom foraging in Arkansas is really special,” Tanner said. “We’ve met so many knowledgeable and enthusiastic people who are always willing to share what they know.” There are plenty of active Facebook groups, including Arkansas Mushrooms and Fungi as well as The Original Arkansas Morel Hunters.
For them, mushroom foraging isn’t just about gathering food; it’s about being part of a community that values knowledge, respect for nature and the joy of discovery. “It’s like an Easter egg hunt every time we go out,” Vess added. “And the best part is, you get to eat the eggs.”
Aerial view of foraged mushrooms, showcasing the diverse and rich abundance that Arkansas foragers seek during their ventures into the wild.
MUSHROOM SOUP
Soup from Driftwood Farms, recipe via My Forking Life.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA REEVES
Ingredients:
Blue Oyster Mushrooms: 4 Cups
Butter: 6 Tablespoons
All-Purpose Flour: 6 Tablespoons
Yellow Onion (Chopped): 1 Cup
Celery (Chopped): 1/2 Cup
Dried Thyme: 1 Teaspoon
Marjoram: 1 Teaspoon
Chicken Broth: 4 Cups
Heavy Cream: 1 Cup
Salt and Pepper: To Taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and celery and sauté until softened.
Add Driftwood Farms Blue Oyster Mushrooms, dried thyme, and marjoram. Stir until mushrooms have softened and reduced in volume, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir for about 1-2 minutes to allow the flour to cook.
Stir in chicken broth and simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, until the mixture has reduced.
Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Allow mixture to simmer an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper.
ENJOY!
FROM GRAVEL TO GLORY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JON SEATON @ DASHMANOFFICIAL
Rallycross is a high-speed motorsport in which drivers race modified cars on a mixed-surface track, combining elements of rally racing and circuit racing, often featuring tight turns, jumps and varying terrain. In Arkansas, it’s a way of life deeply rooted in the rugged terrain of The Natural State, particularly in the Ozarks. For Jon Seaton, a celebrated grassroots rallycrosser from Shirley, this high-octane sport is a natural extension of the freedom and thrill he experienced growing up on the unpaved dirt roads of Banner Mountain.
“The Ozarks are made for rally racing,” Seaton said, reflecting on his childhood, where he first learned to maneuver his Yamaha Moto4 quad through the loose gravel and winding mountain roads. These early experiences of pushing the limits of control and embracing the thrill of the slide ignited a lifelong passion that would eventually lead him to the world of rallycross — a sport that combines the unpredictability of nature with the exhilaration of speed.
Seaton’s journey into rallycross began in 2012 when he first heard that the local Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) chapter was planning an event in Greenbrier. “I had been friends with Zach Shaddox and Jeff Hobbs for several years, and they were going to host the first-ever rallycross event for the state,” he remembered. Despite driving a 2003 Honda Element — far from the traditional rally cars like a welloutfitted Mini Cooper or Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (Evo) — Seaton entered the competition, embracing the sport’s inclusive nature.
“Rallycross is a safe way to get out in that field and just let yourself rip the throttle,” he said. “You run into every kind of surface in rallycross, from deep grass to mud, sand, hard-packed dirt and gravel. All of those conditions come with varying grips and speed, which makes rallycross a lot different from other motorsports.”
This diversity in terrain, coupled with the thrill of pushing a vehicle to its limits, hooked Seaton immediately. From that inaugural event, he found his passion. He launched a media company dedicated to capturing the essence of rallycross, earning him the SCCA “Spark Plug” award in 2019 for excellence in representing the club through his media work.
The beauty of rallycross in Arkansas lies in its community, a small group of enthusiasts who share a love for the outdoors and the thrill of racing. “Our local Rallycross community is a tight, small family,” Seaton said. This sense of camaraderie is evident at every event, where drivers of all backgrounds come together, whether they’re piloting a 2022 Subaru WRX or a $500 Ford Escort bought off Facebook Marketplace. The diversity of vehicles and the creativity in modifications speak to the inclusive and adaptable nature of the sport.
“We’ve had our very own Ellis Gildner in his Porsche 911 out there, to a mid-90s BMW with a V12 competing,” he said. “That’s the beautiful thing to me personally; there is no excuse in rallycross. You can run whatever you like.” This adaptability extends beyond just the vehicles; it’s a mindset that embraces the challenges and unpredictability of each race, with drivers constantly tweaking and upgrading their cars to handle the rugged conditions of Arkansas’s rallycross tracks.
The rallycross experience in Arkansas is as much about the environment as the racing. Events are often held in breathtaking locations, like the rolling hills of Crabtree in the foothills of the Ozarks, where Seaton has spent many weekends camping under the stars after a day of racing.
“When I traveled up to those events, I would pack provisions for the weekend and camp on-site. We would go out to the field at night, lay on the car trailers, and watch the stars. Just a cool breeze and some of the best sunsets you’ll ever see,” Seaton remembered. These moments, where the beauty of nature converges with the thrill of motorsport, encapsulate what makes rallycross so special. It’s not just about the competition; it’s about the connection to the land, the community, and the joy of being outdoors. Fall in Arkansas presents an ideal opportunity to explore rallycross as a participant or spectator. The crisp air and vibrant foliage of the Ozarks add an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.
For Seaton and many others, rallycross is more than just a sport — it’s a way to live out those childhood dreams of playing in the dirt, now with a little more horsepower and a lot more heart.
Rallycross enthusiasts gather at events across the Natural State, where drivers from all walks of life compete in a variety of vehicles — from $500 Facebook finds to top-tier rally cars.
Jon Seaton navigates the mixed terrain of an Arkansas rallycross event, where the thrill of the slide meets the rugged beauty of the Ozarks.
"RALLYCROSS IS A SAFE WAY TO GET OUT IN THAT FIELD AND JUST LET YOURSELF
RIP
THE THROTTLE. EVERY SURFACE, FROM GRASS TO GRAVEL, BRINGS A NEW CHALLENGE, AND THAT ' S WHAT MAKES IT SO ADDICTIVE."
- JON SEATON
TRAIL
The Hunt is On
By Jason Clenney
Illustration by @bumble_bri_artwork
Ispent the years of my youth trekking countless miles of the Ouachita National Forest. I was lucky to have a grandma who lived by herself in a tiny red cabin at the base of a mountain. My fondest memories as a child were of grandma’s house. Summers were spent fishing the local farm ponds and creeks (my grandma frequently out-fished me with nothing but a cane pole and a June bug on a rusty hook).
When seasons changed, I would trade my trusty Zebco 33 reel for a hand-me-down rifle and pivot my pursuit from fish to fur. Spring was reserved for fin and feather, catching bass and chasing the adrenaline of the tympanic thud of a turkey gobbler drumming to his harem. In the fall, I awoke before Jesus to pursue those elusive Odocoileus virginianus or the common North American white-tailed deer. But my favorite hunts did not end in harvest.
As an adult, I would frequently return to Grandma’s house. When she passed away, I purchased that crooked little cabin with its chipping paint, heirloom floribunda roses toppling over every fence, and a fireplace that would scorch my backside if I got too close. It became my little respite from reality and, of course, a place to hunt. It became my therapy.
My first deer season back at Grandma’s house remains the richest in my mind. It is the ammunition of the tired tales I’ll spin in my later years. Like any good hunter, I began the season well before opening day by scouting. In those Ouachita Mountains, there is no shortage of national forest to explore. As the season grew nearer, my gaze turned to the ground, searching for scrapes and rubs, a common sign of a mature buck about to rut. I didn’t have to wait long. The cameras revealed two MASSIVE mountain bucks, both 10-points, with huge, muscled bodies developed from a lifetime of climbing up and down that mountain. They always traveled together at night. The greatest shock was that this pair of prehistoric deer were captured by camera only about 20 steps from the cabin’s kitchen window.
Each morning after found me red-eyed, sipping coffee from a saucer, gazing out that window, waiting for the sun to come up and a chance to see with my own eyes one of these ancient future trophies. It never happened. Night after night, they would return to drink from the pond on the property and
eat the apples and pears that fell to the ground in the former garden plot. Before the sun rose, they would retreat back to beat the heat of a sultry summer that overstayed its welcome. From there, they could also spy a bedraggled bowhunter huffing his gear up the mountain and safely escape.
I studied those deer. I tracked their patterns. I knew when and where they ate and slept. They were like friends of mine. I even named them: Chainsaw (because of a uniquely serrated eye guard) and The Perfect Ten.
Every moment after opening day I could steal away was spent in the dense canopy of that refuge, bowhunting in a new tree or attempting to creep up on those old brothers from another angle. But big deer like that do not survive to such an age by accident. Statistically, most bucks do not live to age 3 because of hunting pressure and rut-related injury. By that measure, these bucks were about 100 years old in wisdom. They were smart. Smarter than me, anyway. I would need deer-like instincts or beginner’s luck to harvest one of them successfully.
As it happens, that is exactly how Chainsaw met his fate. That very season, I saw a picture online of a young boy grinning ear to ear after bagging the buck of a lifetime on his inaugural hunt under the tutelage of his grandpa. I wasn’t mad. Not even disappointed. I was not meant to connect with ol’ Chainsaw. He was meant for that boy in his borrowed blazed-orange hat, that memory with Grandpa, and an experience that would ignite a child’s lifelong passion for the outdoors.
My target buck, though, I choose to believe that he is ageless, still roaming those woods, harassing would-be trophy hunters and making hearts like mine skip a couple of beats. I hit those hills with stick and string for the following three years, hunting that elusive deer. The closest I got to him was watching him run away. All I could see were huge white horns and his white tail waving like a flag, signaling another defeat.
It has been several years since I have seen any evidence of him. Nonetheless, each deer season you will find me climbing closer to heaven in a Loblolly pine, holding my breath as I hear the crunch of fall leaves over my shoulder, clamping my release to the bowstring, convinced that I am about to sneak a shot at The Perfect Ten.
