Fun in the mountains
TOURIST TOWN OFFERS ADVENTURES FOR VISITORS, RESIDENTS
The city of Mountain View is a popular tourist destination for many across The Natural State, but just because the city offers attractions for visitors, it doesn’t mean there is a shortage of fun for full-time residents. From outdoor adventures to exploring Ozark-area heritage, there is sure to be something to spark everyone’s interest.
This fundraiser for the Stone County Humane Society is a day filled with fun, food, music and contests for the entire family and their pets. All proceeds go to fund the humane society’s future permanent shelter.
ARKANSAS CRAFT GALLERY
Managed by the Arkansas Craft Guild, headquartered in Mountain View, the Arkansas Craft Gallery offers a unique selection of heirloom-quality fine arts and crafts. The gallery is open year-round and displays work from artists from across the state who are members of the guild. A variety of arts and crafts are available for purchase, ranging from jewelry to blown-glass ceramics. Visitors are also welcome to visit with guild members, who are commonly on-site, and to take advantage of Wi-Fi in the Joanne Webb lounge. For more information, visit www.arkansascraftguild.org.
BLANCHARD SPRINGS CAVERNS
Often referred to as the “Living Cave,” Blanchard Springs Caverns is a system of caves that is ever changing and offers a new experience each time it is toured. Located in the Ozark National Forest, the caves are open to the public, and there are multiple trails to chose from, with hikes led by a knowledgeable Forest Service guide.The tours wind through water-carved passages, including an underground river. Each
trail is a little different in intensity, and visitors should be aware of the features of each trail they decide to take. Outside of the majestic caverns, the forest offers campgrounds and spectacular waterfalls, among other sights. For more information, visit www.blanchardsprings.org.
OZARK FOLK CENTER
Whether looking for a way to learn some history, hear some music or try out a treetop adventure, Ozark Folk Center has it covered. The center is dedicated to preserving Ozark heritage and does so in an entertaining way with live blacksmithing, pottery-making and other pioneer skills demonstrated and taught in the center’s craft village. The center also plays host to musical programs at various times throughout the year. In addition, the center operates Loco Ropes, a high-ropes course adjacent to the building. For more information and a schedule of events, visit www.ozarkfolkcenter.com.
SYLLAMO MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL
Referred to as an “epic route” by the International Mountain Bicycling Association, the Syllamo Mountain Bike Trail includes 50 miles of five color-coded loops. The many route options provide selections for all-day rides or shorter tours on beginner to advanced terrain.Two trailheads are located in Mountain View and are color-coded in yellow. Known as the Jack’s Branch Loop, these routes provide access to the Blanchard Springs Recreation Area. Maps can be obtained by contacting the Sylamore Ranger District in Mountain View at 870-269-3228.
WHITE RIVER
Visitors looking to spend time fishing or just enjoying the day on the White River near Mountain View are in luck. The river, which originates at Bull Shoals Lake near Fayetteville, flows for 720 miles through southern Missouri and Arkansas. The river is known to flow relatively fast in the wet months and comparatively calm the rest of the year. The White River is a popular destination for trout fishing, as well as fly-fishing. The area along the river also offers many amenities, such as easily accessible campgrounds, cabin rentals, hunting grounds and more. For more information, visit www.arkansas.com/placesto