Cove Creek Natural Area offers incredible views
Arkansas boasts 2.9 million acres of national forest property and 52 state parks. And I think it would be safe to say that a huge portion of the people residing within the perimeters of Arkansas utilizes these public lands, in some form or fashion, from time to time.
Folks from other states are drawn to these public lands, as well. I often take note of license plates on vehicles that are parked at trailheads, parks, launching ramps and recreation areas during my excursions. And it quickly becomes evident that those living in our neighboring states gravitate to the natural beauty that we often take for granted. In fact, it is not uncommon to see rigs from all stretches of the United States.
I, too, savor the opportunity to kick around in the national forest, and there isn’t a state park that I haven’t visited throughout the years, many of which I return to time and time again.
But there are also other outdoor destinations that I frequent, as well. In fact, I have been intrigued, since first learning of the state’s natural areas, several years ago.
So what is a natural area? Well, these sites play an important role in conservation. In fact, they are set aside to preserve, and sometimes restore, rare habitats or species that can be found within the perimeters of the designated areas.
There are 75 natural areas throughout the state, all varying in size and managed by the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission. The sites are open to the public. In fact, 25 sport hiking or water trails.
However, it is extremely important for all who visit to recognize that they are likely entering a fragile ecosystem. In turn, it is important that one remains on designated paths.
And it is most crucial for those exploring designated areas without trails to carefully place every step. Take every possible precaution to avoid damaging the environment, even if it means taking in a particular scene from afar.
Today’s article will focus on one of these particular natural areas. And fortunately, a designated, yet primitive, trail meanders through the property, lending to the opportunity for folks to get better acquainted with the site.
Cove Creek Natural Area is situated in Faulkner County, within the Arkansas River Valley section of the state. A portion of the large stream is contained by sandstone bluffs, lending to incredible views and impressive scenery.
The section of the creek making its way through the natural area is in close proximity to its confluence with Cadron Creek, which eventually dumps into the Arkansas River.
OK, exactly what is so important about this specific natural area? According to the Natural Heritage Commission’s website, efforts are presently underway to restore “an extensive complex of sandstone glades and woodlands that covers more than 100 acres on the west side of the creek above the bluffs.”
Although the text I read did not elaborate, one might surmise that this particular environment would provide the needed habitat for specific plant species to thrive, some of which might not survive elsewhere.
Now that we are somewhat more informed about the natural area, let’s strike out along the trail and experience what awaits within sight of the designated path.
From the parking area, the trail makes its way alongside a sign and into a cedar glade. To say that cedar trees are plentiful along the right-hand side of the route would prove somewhat of an understatement. In fact, many of the trees are of impressive stature.
However, the view on the opposing side of the path is far different, as it sports occasional hardwoods in the midst of a thick understory. In fact, this would prove a perfect spot to see a whitetail going about its everyday rituals.
Although a trail intersects on the right, remain straight, as this is where the loop will eventually tie back into the main trail.
The path makes a slight ascent, shortly thereafter, entering yet another environment, as the cedar trees give way to an upland hardwood forest. The beaten path continues through the hardwood stand as it veers to the right and makes a slight climb to a trail intersection on the left-hand side at about a half-mile in.
I would strongly suggest striking out along the spur trail to the left, as it makes a short jaunt to a shelf atop a sheer bluff overlooking a distant cove creek winding through the forest. Be careful, though, as it is likely a couple of hundred feet to the drainage below.
The perspective from atop the vista is certainly impressive. And if the view isn’t enough, I’ll not soon forget watching a family of distant otters frolic in the waterway during a previous excursion.
From the intersection, the main trail veers right and begins a long, slight ascent to a low-lying area within a stone’s throw of the creek. This, too, is a very special and scenic place, as a sheer rock formation contains the waterway on the opposing shoreline.
Although the rock formation is to be admired, this is one of those spots where I can’t help but ponder what might lurk in the depths of the long, deep pool. In fact, I always long for my rod and reel with the line’s end attached to a Texas Rigged soft plastic.
I have not yet fished in these waters. But one would be hard-pressed to convince me that a well-placed cast would not end with an exciting battle with a feisty smallmouth bass. In fact, I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised if one managed to coax several fish from this particular hole of water.
OK, enough fishing. Let’s get back to our excursion along the trail. The path veers away from the creek shortly thereafter, makes its way across a wooden footbridge spanning a ditch and heads back into the forest.
The trail meanders through a wooded area for a distance and eventually ties back in with the main trail, where we will turn left and make a slight ascent back to where the trek began.
Although the designated route is 1.5 miles in length and unsurfaced, it lends to a fairly easy walk. And the aforementioned views certainly make the journey well worth the effort. In fact, Cove Creek Natural Area is definitely a destination where I anticipate returning in the future.
To get to Cove Creek Natural Area from Hot Springs, travel 17 miles on Highway 70 east and continue on Interstate 30 toward Little Rock. Go 18 miles and take Exit 129 onto I-430. Remain on I-430 for 13 miles and take Exit 13B onto I-40 West, toward Fort Smith.
Remain on the interstate for 24 miles and take Exit 124A (at Conway) onto Salem Road toward Highway 25 north.
Go 2.3 miles and keep left on Highway 25. Travel 4.3 miles and continue onto Robinson Road. Go 6.2 miles and take a left onto Mallettown Road. Drive 1.5 miles and take a right onto Town Circle. Go four-tenths of a mile and turn right onto JD Road. Go three-tenths of a mile and the parking area will be on the right.