The leaves are getting ready to peak in the 501, and that makes for a great time to just get out and follow country roads to take it all in. Along the way, there are some opportunities at state parks to enjoy the amazing canopy of foliage.

Pinnacle Mountain State Park
On Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 25 and 26, Pinnacle Mountain State Park is offering fall foliage cruises. Three cruises will be available each day, departing at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. A park interpreter will guide the cruise on Lake Maumelle, near Pinnacle Mountain, and showcase the amazing foliage on the surrounding hills. Advance registration and payment are required. (Admission: $10 adults, $5 children ages 6-12, under 6 free.)
Lake Ouachita State Park
The following weekend, Lake Ouachita State Park will host a Fall Foliage Festival
(Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 1-2). The weekend will include lake tours, guided hikes and other programs to highlight the beauty of the park.
In addition, the weekend kicks off the Eagle Watch Tours at the park. Lake Ouachita provides a remarkable habitat for wintering bald eagles. So, take your binoculars and while you are there to enjoy the foliage, plan to take the covered tour boat ride in search of the eagles. Reservations and tickets are available at the visitor center.
The Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism has developed a network of “spotters” to keep them apprised of the fall foliage status around the state. Reports from the spotters are compiled and posted on the agency website. They are also available by calling 1-800-NATURAL or 501.682.7777 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
In addition to the leaf report, the website includes information on scenic drives around the state, fall festivals and events, and the opportunity to view the department’s latest fall video footage.
We hope you will take the opportunity to enjoy autumn in the 501. It is the season to hike through woods, drive the back roads and savor the scenery.