24 Mar 2009 Celebrating spring in the 501

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun, which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion, like a champion rejoicing to run his course. It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit to the other; nothing is hidden from its heat.”   (Psalm 19:1-6 -NIV)

Here are just a couple of places to go in the coming month to enjoy the gifts of beauty that we have been given, right here in the 501:
Spring is the time for flowers and there are plenty of bursts of color popping up around Lake Catherine State Park, located near Hot Springs.  
Blooming Weekend, scheduled April 18-19, will feature guided hikes and nature programs that explore the many blooms in this gorgeous Ouachita mountain landscape. Contact the park at 501.844.4176 for a more complete schedule. Admission is free.
Lake Ouachita State Park will host two kayak campout weekends, March 28-29 and April 25-26. Park staff will take participants for a guided, overnight kayaking adventure.
The trip includes meals and evening programs as well as information on the history, geology and wildlife of Lake Ouachita. You can bring your own kayak and supplies or rent them from the state park. Space is limited, so make your reservations early. Contact the park at 501.767.9366 for more details, rental prices or to hold your place. Admission is $75.
So, whether it is a visit to one of our state parks or simply a drive on a rural road, take some time this month to enjoy traveling the 501.