buffalo national river for the holidays {2022}.

Having taken a big road trip to California in early summer we didn't necessarily plan on enjoying some hiking at the Buffalo National River this year, but as the seasons changed we just couldn't help ourselves from the refreshment this area provides our family and so enjoyed time there at both Thankgiving and Christmas.

A few of the trails were new-to-us :: a quick lunch breatk in Joplin at Shoal Creek Falls, the most level of hikes with stunning water features at Kings River Falls, the stunning Fern Falls that had no trail markers and Pinion Creek Falls in Bella Vista, AR to stretch our legs on the way home. 

Hiking on Christmas Day was also new-to-us and although we had already been to Smith Creek Preserve at other times of the year the beauty of the ice and snow and being together is providing a sweet, peaceful memory closing out the year of 2022.

Shoal Creek Falls ~ Joplin, MO

King's River Falls - Witter, AR

Sweden Creek Falls - Kingson, AR

Fern Falls - Jasper, AR

Alum Cove Natural Bridge - Deer, AR

Ponca to Steel Creek - Ponca, AR

Pinon Creek Falls - Bella Vista, AR

Christmas Day Hiking at Smith Creek Preserve - Jasper, AR