Recreational Guide

The Natural Choice in the Natural State.

www.discoverrussellville.org • 479.967.1762 The Natural Choice in the Natural State.

Defined by dramatic geography and subtle beauty, the River Valley is framed by the tallest peak in Arkansas, Mount Magazine, and her sisters Mount Nebo and Petit Jean collectively known as the Tri- Peaks to the south, and the Ozark Mountains to the north with the Arkansas River and Lake Dardanelle nestled between the hills. The region is known for verdant beauty and down-home hospitality.

In the heart of the River Valley sits the town of Russellville. A blend of yesteryear’s charm and modern convenience, Russellville is a small city with a big heart. Art galleries, antique markets and enticing eateries populate the historic downtown area as music from local talent fills the air. Land loving outdoor enthusiasts will find gritty adventure in nearby public wild lands and parks. Water enthusiasts can boat, ski and fish on Lake Dardanelle.

Russellville sits conveniently at the crossroads of Interstate 40 and scenic Highway 7 with interesting and fun opportunities in every direction. North to south and east to west, the River Valley is full of activities and inspiration for everyone.

Pg. 2 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 3 Pg. 2 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 3 True to its name, the River Valley is defined by water. Ozark streams provide whitewater excitement on Big Piney Creek and the Illinois Bayou as their waters rush toward Lake Dardanelle. Joining the Arkansas River from the south, the Petit Jean River offers a slower float with an emphasis on catfish and crappie angling. Countrysides surrounding the waterways, the Ozark National Forest and Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge, offer adventure for hunters, wildlife photographers and hikers. Black bear, wild turkey and whitetail deer along with small game and birds abound in the fertile river bottoms and wild highlands surrounding Russellville.

If fishing is your thing, the River Valley is the sweet spot you’ve been looking for. Lake Dardanelle is a world-class bass fishery famous for heavy stringers and fast action. Lake Dardanelle’s rise to prominence in bass fishing circles attracts numerous professional and collegiate tournaments throughout the year. The lake’s popularity among bass anglers led to construction of an 1,861 square-foot tournament weigh-in pavilion and adjacent tournament staging area -- located in Lake Dardanelle State Park -- that set the template for other tournament hosting lakes around the nation.

But bass aren’t the only fish to be found here. Big- game anglers can focus on the tailwaters of Dardanelle Lock and Dam where heavyweight blue and flathead catfish lurk in the depths awaiting your challenge.

Pg. 4 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 5 Pg. 4 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 5 Perhaps you prefer a more refined outdoor experience. The River Valley is home to four state parks – Lake Dardanelle, Mount Nebo, Mount Magazine and Petit Jean – offering visitor centers, park interpreters, marked hiking trails and swimming areas or pools.

Mount Nebo, Mount Magazine and Petit Jean – the Tri-Peaks – offer breathtaking views. Lake Dardanelle’s visitor center features an aquatic exhibit holding many species of fish native to the river as well as Piney Creek and the Illinois Bayou. Planned activities such as kayak and pontoon boat tours of the lake, fish feedings, hands-on interpretative activities and hikes with an interpreter are just a sampling of the fun and wonder to be experienced at beautiful Lake Dardanelle State Park.

Pg. 6 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 7 Pg. 6 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 7 Celebration of community is a common theme in the River Valley. Main Street Russellville’s Taste of the Valley is an award-winning party of delectable food and drink sampling provided by River Valley restaurants, vineyards and food service institutions. Autumn brings the Russellville Downtown Fall Festival and Chili Cookoff. The Downtown Fall Festival is a fun-filled, day-long nostalgic celebration bringing back the days when carnivals set up on the streets of Downtown Russellville. Championship chili sampling is part of the fun as well.

The communities surrounding Russellville are big on community spirit as well. Dover celebrates the settling of the foothills during Ozark Memories Day. Atkins Picklefest is a jubilee of the delicious brine- packed cucumbers. You can even sample a fried pickle. And across the river the town of Dardanelle celebrates all things Yell County at Yell fest where, yes, you can enter a yelling contest.

Pg. 8 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 9 Pg. 8 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 9 Do you want to watch the kids have fun while sitting in the shade? Maybe breaking a sweat is in your agenda. You can do both in the River Valley. The city of Russellville provides 23 parks, soccer and baseball complexes, a skateboard park, memorial parks with pavilions and two 18-hole championship caliber disc golf course at scenic Old Post Park.

Bona Dea walking and bike trails cover 186 acres and provide the perfect place for a strenuous workout or leisurely tour of lakeside woodlands. Short trails, long trails, workout stations with suggestions for stretching and targeting muscle groups, rest benches and hard surfaced trails for all-weather use -- Bona Dea is a great way to warm-up or wind-down for the day.

Pg. 10 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 11 Pg. 10 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 11 With a community of approximately 12,000 students taking classes through campuses in Russellville and Ozark, Arkansas Tech University offers a stackable degrees approach that creates multiple access points to higher education.

NCAA athletics, vibrant programs in the arts and numerous community services initiatives are just some of the ways that ATU serves and partners with the residents of the Arkansas River Valley. See for yourself at www.atu.edu.

LAKE POINT CONFERENCE CENTER

Conferences, business meetings, social gatherings and educational opportunities are all part of the daily schedule at the Lake Point Conference Center, which is owned by Arkansas Tech University and located on Lake Dardanelle in Russellville.

Lake Point provides the technology, hospitality and amenities necessary to make your event a success. Elegant and casual dining services, on-site overnight lodging and the variety of recreational activities in the area make Lake Point an ideal destination for any organization seeking a peaceful setting for its next meeting or small conference. Visit www.atu.edu/lakepoint for more information.

Pg. 12 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 13 Pg. 12 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 13 Downtown The thumping, clacking Union Pacific railcars provide a fitting accent. The din of yesterday’s workhorse echoes at a comfortable volume through the corridors of downtown Russellville. It’s a nostalgic sound that works in concert with the buildings and the businesses. It’s the heartbeat of community here in the core of the city.

The railroad is where the story begins for downtown Russellville. The Little Rock/Fort Smith Railroad was completed in 1873 and its route through Russellville tipped the balance of economic, and then political power in Pope County.The first depot was constructed in 1880 and shortly after that, in 1887 to be exact, the county seat moved from Dover to Russellville.

The years meld together when visiting with downtown merchants. Old-fashioned service with a smile is still the foundation for good business whether you’re shopping at C&D Drug, a location that’s housed a pharmacy since 1877, or sampling a sweet at Kneading Hands Bakery.

You can hear the thumping clacking sounds of a rousing economy. The sound echoes through the corridors of downtown Russellville. The sound and the spirit of downtown has survived through the decades and now sits ripe with potential.

Pg. 14 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 15 Pg. 14 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 15 American Best Holiday Inn Express Value Inn & Suites 300 E. Harrell Drive 204 Lake Front Drive (479) 219-5152 (479) 968-5511 LaQuinta Inn & Suites Best Western 111 E. Harrell Drive Evening settles over the River Valley. 2326 N. Arkansas Ave. (479) 967-2299 You’ve got a full belly and big plans for tomorrow. A good (479) 967-1000 Motel 6 night’s rest is the only thing left on your day’s agenda. Luckily, Budget Inn 215 W. Birch Street Russellville offers accommodations for all budgets. 1206 E. Main Street (479) 968-3666 You can find lodging just a short drive from all Interstate 40 (479) 968-4959 Park Motel exits. Continental breakfast, outdoor pool, indoor pool, hot tub, Clarion Inn & Suites 2615 W. Main Street gym, mini-fridge, microwave, excellent parking and, of course, 2407 N. Arkansas (479) 968-4862 wi-fi are all readily available. (479) 968-4300 Quality Inn Clean rooms, fresh sheets, and small-town hospitality all Comfort Inn & Suites 3019 E. Parkway ensure that you’re rested, refreshed, and ready as the sun 2714 E. Parkway (479) 967-7500 shines down on another beautiful day in Russellville — the (479) 968-2424 natural choice in the Natural State. Relax Inn Courtyard by Marriott 1320 E. Main Street 154 E. Aspen Lane (479) 968-6332 (479) 968-6000 Russellville Days Inn & Suites Marina & Cabins 109 E. Harrell Drive 330 Beach Road (479) 280-1940 (479) 967-1543 Econo Lodge Super 8 Motel 2200 N. Arkansas Ave. 2404 N. Arkansas Ave. (479) 968-4400 (479) 968-8898 Fairfield Inn & Suites The Turner Home 120 E. Harrell Drive 519 S. Cleveland Ave. (972) (479) 967-9030 816-3586 (817) 994-4303 Hampton Inn 2304 N. Arkansas Ave. (479) 858-7199

Pg. 16 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 17 Pg. 16 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 17 Local Favorites Trying to find that “can’t miss” dining spot in Russellville? Look no further!

Russellville and the River Valley have always been Feltner’s Whatta- Burger Gotta have a Whatta-Burger! A destination burger home to fantastic and often famous eateries. People stop, fries, onion rings, thick milk shakes and a come from far and wide to dine on the unique mix of delicious food and nostalgic atmosphere. enjoy the courteous small-town service that our region is known for. 1410 N Arkansas Ave | (479) 968-1410

The icons of Russellville dining — Whatta-Burger, Old South, and Stoby’s — along with mainstays such as Taco Villa, CJ's,, and Ozark Mt. Smokehouse, are now joined by some tantalizing newcomers like Pasta Grill, Fat Daddy's Barbecue Freddo's Frozen Treats and The Old Bank Sports Grill. All of this vittle diversity, this eclectic selection of eats, can be found within minutes of your Russellville destination, and promise to deliver on that home-town feel. Taco Villa Mexican, Italian, barbecue, pizza, chicken, steaks, sandwiches, The River Valley version of Tex-Mex. Giant burritos, breakfast, or just the best hamburgers in the state, Russellville truly is edible bowl taco salads, cheese dip, and world-class the an epic food adventure in Arkansas. hot sauce. 420 E 4th St | (479) 968-1191

Stoby’s Restaurant Ozark Mt. Smokehouse World famous cheese dip, sandwiches, salads, and Soup, salad, sandwiche, potato salad, sweet tea the best breakfast menu in the River Valley. And you — pretty much all the fixings for a country lunch — can eat inside a train car. made fresh. 405 W Parkway Drive | (479) 968-3816 1000 W Main St | (479) 968-7290

Pg. 18 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 19 Pg. 18 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 19 Fat Daddy’s Bar-B-Que Freddo’s Frozen Treats Barbecue masters at work here. Everything from A Euro-feel sweet shop featuring Italian gelato, plates to sandwiches to barbecue nachos with frozen yogurt, retro candy, Jelly Belly beans, sauce options. Fantastic steaks as well. Gummy Bears and other goodies in bulk. 104 N Denver Ave | (479) 967-0420 407 South Arkansas Ave | (479) 968-5665 LOCAL FAVORITES

The Old Bank Sports Grill Old South Restaurant LOCAL FAVORITES LOCAL What a sports grill should be. Steak, sandwiches, Elvis once ate here. Roadside diner constructed in salads, pizza, desserts and more. Fully stocked bar 1947 and a menu to reflect its history: steaks, fried and cozy atmosphere. chicken, the best chicken fried steak you’ve ever had. 218 W Main St | (479) 219-5181 1330 E Main St | (479) 968-3789

CJ’s Butcher Boy Burgers Pasta Grill Fresh 100 percent ground beef patties cooked Italian dining at its finest. Delicious appetizers, thick and juicy with home cut fries. Satisfied pasta dinners, seafood, thick steaks, pork loins, appetites guaranteed. and desserts. 2803 N Arkansas Ave | (479) 968-2300 319 W Main St | (479) 967-1707

Pg. 20 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 21 Pg. 20 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 21 ENTERTAINMENT

1. STRIKERS BOWLING ALLEY: Dating back to Ancient Egypt and traced to Eastern Europe as early as 300 A.D., modern bowling is enjoyed by 95 million people in 90 countries. Enjoy a local game of 10-pin at Strikers Bowling Alley, 3700 West Main, Russellville. (479) 968-0877.

2. RUSSELLVILLE SKATE STATION: Founded in 1997, Skate Station is an indoor roller rink open year round. Public Skating sessions and reservations for birthday, holiday or private parties SIGHT SEEING are available. 1102 East Second St., Russellville; (479) 967-9466. 7. LAKE DARDANELLE STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER: A must-see spot, this unique center overlooking the lake has engaging interactive exhibits and state-of-the- 3. THE WALL: Russellville's premiere rock art touch screen kiosks that share information on the park, the area’s water climbing gym. This facility features over sources and rich history. An aquatic exhibit features four aquariums containing 100 top rope routes and bouldering routes, fish found area waterways. (479) 967-5516. a dedicated training wall with campus board and pro-shop with everything 8. RIVER VALLEY ARTS CENTER: The gallery displays 40 exhibitions annually you need to get climbing! Visit the of local, regional, national and international artists. A nonprofit community thewallrussellville.com for details. organization offering summer musical theatre and summer arts camp along with art, drama, and music classes for all age groups and abilities. On-site gift 4. CENTERVILLE DRAGWAY: Find loads shop. 1001 East B St., Russellville; www.arvartscenter.org ; (479) 968-2452. of excitement at this 1000’ drag strip located 11 miles south of Russellville 9. POTTS INN: The Potts Inn Museum is one of the best preserved stagecoach near Centerville off Hwy. 154. www. stations on the Butterfield Overland mail route between Memphis and Fort centervilledragway.com; (479) 576-4001. Smith. The restored antebellum home (circa 1950) houses a doll museum, house and clothing collections, antique farm equipment and historic photos. 5. UEC THEATRES: Formerly, the Lowrey Picwood 11 movie theater, UEC Theatres Potts Inn Museum, 25 East Ash St., Pottsville, AR. (479) 968-8369. is your place for the best and brightest of Hollywood. Bargain movies are offered Monday nights. Special discounts and private viewings are available. 10. ARKANSAS RIVER VISITOR CENTER: The Visitor Center offers wildlife exhibits 3800 West Main St., Russellville; www.uecmovies.com; (479) 968-3434. and an interpretive presentation chronicling the development of the Arkansas River. The center overlook is the perfect location to watch barges pass 6. EXTREME PAINTBALL & LASER TAG: Indoor and outdoor facilities; located seven through the Lock and Dam below. Off of AR Hwy. 7, 1598 Lock & Dam Road, and a half miles north of Russellville off AR Hwy. 7, 1507 Linker Mtn. Rd, Russellville; managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. (479) 968-5008. Dover. (479) 970-1104; sites.google.com/site/xtremepaintballandlasertag

Pg. 22 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 23 15. SUBIACO ABBEY: Established in 1878 as a Benedictine Monastery, the abbey serves as a college preparatory school for boys. Pick up a brochure on-site for a self-guided tour to view the dramatic stone architecture and manicured grounds on Scenic AR Hwy 22 southwest of Russellville. (479) 934-1000.

16. HISTORICAL AND HERITAGE SITES: History buffs will enjoy visiting local heritage-rich sites of historical significance. More than 33 locations are noted on the National Register of Historic Places in Pope County alone! For a list, visit the Russellville Chamber of Commerce, 708 W. Main, Russellville; (479) 968-2530. SHOPPING

Annual Petit Jean Car Show 17. BARGAINS GALORE ON 64: Shop until you drop along Hwy. 64 from Fort Smith past Conway to Beebe, Ark. each year for three full days in August. This “travel treasure” event 11. ARKANSAS TECH MUSEUM: “The Changing Face of Campus” has more parallels Interstate 40 and boasts than 60,000 items in its history-related collections celebrating the 100-year 160 miles of yard sales, flea markets, anniversary of the university. Most of those items are photographs, negatives and antiques and collectibles. 1 (888) and documents. Open Tuesday through Thursday, 9-4 and by appointment. 568-3552. 1502 N. El Paso Ave., ATU, Russellville; www.museum. atu.edu. (479) 964-0826. 18. ANTIQUE SHOPPING: The Russellville 12. HISTORIC MISSOURI PACIFIC RAILROAD DEPOT: The Russellville Depot was area offers more than a half-dozen Subiaco Abbey built in 1916 and rededicated in 2004 following completion of a two-year established locations for antique rehabilitation project. The depot houses a visitor center, railroad museum, enthusiasts, plus countless shops community room and the office of Main Street Russellville. The location and found north and south on AR Hwy. the adjacent Depot Park serve as home base for festivals and special events. 7 and beyond. For a list of local businesses, call the Russellville Chamber of (479) 967-1437. Commerce, (479) 968-2530. 13. MUSEUM OF AUTOMOBILES: Atop Petit Jean Mountain, Winthrop Rockefeller EVENTS constructed a building to exhibit quality antique and vintage automobiles cars on October 18, 1964, originally with thirty-three cars on display. Exhibits 19. RUSSELLVILLE CHRISTMAS PARADE: This annual parade is a local holiday include an antique gun collection, a display of Arkansas license plates, and a tradition held on the first Thursday of December. The event attracts thousands player piano. (501) 727-5427; www.museumofautos.com. and is believed to be the largest lit parade in Arkansas. (479) 968-1272.

14. PETIT JEAN STATE PARK: Waterfalls, lakes, mountainsides, meadows and 20. MUSIC DOWNTOWN @ SUNDOWN: Main Street Russellville's summer concert 21 miles of hiking trails can be found at Arkansas’s first and flagship state series features local and regional talent at Depot Park in Russellville park. Located 45 minutes southeast of Russellville. (501) 727-5441; www. Downtown! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs throughout the summer for a petitjeanstatepark.com. special treat. (479) 967-1437.

Pg. 24 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 25 21. POPE COUNTY FAIR: Nothing beats the smell of a corn dog and cotton candy at the Pope County Fair. Begun in 1941, the fair has been an annual tradition in Pope County Arkansas for over 65 years. Get up close and personal with farm animals, fun, foods and amusement rides each September. Pope County Fair Association, (479) 967-0320; www.popecountyfairarkansas.com.

22. FALL FESTIVAL & CHILI COOK-OFF: A fun-filled, day-long street festival held each year on the last Saturday in October. The event, sponsored by Main Street Russellville, is held in Downtown Russellville and is centered around the Historic Missouri-Pacific Railroad Depot and Depot Park. (479) 967-1437.

23. RUSSVEGAS HALF MARATHON is a PR fast course covering 13.1 miles throughout Russellville, supporting the River Valley RussVegas Kids Triathlon Circle of Friends and Children's Hospital. Participants start and finish on the streets of HIstoric Downtown. More than 300 volunteers and local business's pull out the red carpet each 26. RUSSVEGAS KIDS TRIATHLON: The RussVegas Kids Triathlon, in Russellville, April for participants and AR, is another great race put on by The RussVegas Footraces Foundation, family. Featuring a kids mile, who also brings you the RussVegas Half Marathon. Expect the same 5k Glow Run, car show, bands, organization, support, and fun all aimed to benefit Arkansas Children's food, and an expo. Visit www. Hospital and the River Valley Circle of Friends. The courses and distances russvegashalf.com to learn more. were created to be achievable for all athletes and is intended to expose the young participants to the sport of triathlon. Triathlon is a great way for kids to 24. TASTE OF THE VALLEY: Main experience individual accomplishment and have fun at the same time! Visit Street Russellville’s award- www.russvegastri.com for information. winning tasting party features a delicious assortment of food and 27. POPE COUNTY FARMERS MARKET: Over 40 years of local farmers selling directly Taste of the Valley drink provided by River Valley to the public. The market is located in Downtown Russellville. Open Saturdays restaurants, caterers, vineyards, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. and though the week at various times during summer. Check and food service institutions. This out their Facebook page for more information. event is held the last Thursday in April. (479) 967-4137. www.mainstreetrussellville.org. 28. MISTLETOE MARKET: Shop for a Cause at this annual holiday shopping extravaganza benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Arkansas River Valley, 25. PICKLE FEST IN ATKINS: In 1945, Goldsmith Pickle Company invested $75,000 600 E. 16th St., (479) 968-7819. to build a pickle plant in town. Townspeople raised an additional $15,000 to build and equip the plant that became the Atkins Pickle Company. The plant 29. QUARTERLY ARTWALK: Join the fun as this event brings together visitors, sustained the local economy for more than half a century. Pickle Fest honors musicians and merchants in Historic Downtown Russellville. Shop, Dine, the pickle. Mr. Dill Pickle & Miss Sweet Pickle pageants, pickle juice drinking, Discover the fun. For dates and times, visit: www.mainstreetrussellville.org or pickle eating contests and more. Always held the third weekend in May. call (479) 967-1437.

Pg. 26 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 27 34. BIG PINEY: Want adventure? Canoe the Big Piney Creek nestled in the heart of the Ozarks. Contact Moore Outdoors for water levels, rates, or to make reservations for a great outdoor outing on one of Arkansas’s best waterways. (479) 331-3606; www.mooreoutdoors.com.

35. HOLLA BEND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT: Established to provide essential habitat for migratory birds in the Mississippi Flyway, this area has over 7,000 acres of agricultural fields, bottomlands, forest and open water. Home to several species of ducks, bald eagles, Canadian geese and other wildlife throughout the year. 10448 Holla Bend Rd., Dardanelle, (479) 229-4300.

36. MOUNTAIN BIKING OUITA COAL COMPANY, OLD POST & MOUNT NEBO TRAILS: Maintained by the River Valley Chapter of the Ozark Off-Road Cyclists Club, Ouita Coal Company Trail is a nine-mile, single track lollipop trail system. It’s a great stopover for riders heading south to the Ouachitas or north to the The Lodge at Mount Magazine trail playgrounds in Bentonville. Old Post is a "fast, flowy trail near the banks of the Arkansas River" for any level of riding ability. Riders can make a full day of Old Post Park: eight miles of singletrack, an 18-hole professional disc golf course, tennis, basketball and volleyball courts decorate this Corp of OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Engineers owned park. Or discover The Monument Trail at Mt. Nebo, more than 7 miles of newly developed bike trails waiting for you to explore. 30. MT. MAGAZINE STATE PARK: For a breathtaking view atop the highest point in 37. HANG GLIDING: Aficionados of this aerial activity will find launch sites at Arkansas, visit Mt. Magazine State Park. Reservations may be made at the Mt. Nebo and Mt. Magazine State Parks. Even if you don’t participate— park’s magnificent 60-room lodge or one of the 13 cabins. Located on Scenic watching can be just as exciting! Call for regulations and weather conditions. Highway 309, 43 miles southwest of Russellville. www.mountmagazine.com Mt. Magazine State Park, 16878 Highway 309 South, Paris, (479) 963-8502; (877) 665-6343. Mt. Nebo State Park, 16728 West State Highway 155, Dardanelle, (479) 229- 31. MT. NEBO STATE PARK: View sweeping views of the Arkansas River or hike/bike 3655. www.arkansasstateparks.com. 14 miles of winding trails situated 1,350 feet above the River Valley. Mt. Nebo State Park is one of two Arkansas State Parks offering launch sites for hang gliding enthusiasts. Campsites and cabins available. www.mountnebo.com (479) 229-3655.

32. BONA DEA TRAILS: If trails or biking are your style, the Bona Dea Trails and Sanctuary is a must. Over 186 acres and 5.5 miles of trails and wetlands and wooded lowlands provide a perfect habitat for 200 species of birds. (479) 968-5008.

33. OZARK MOUNTAINS AND BUFFALO NATIONAL RIVER: Starting in early October and running through the middle of November, the mountain's sights along Hwy 7 explode with vibrant fall colors spanning the rainbow. The Ozark Mountains and the Buffalo National River, the country’s first national river with 95,000 acres of public land along its corridor, are a must to see in the autumn. Hidden nearby are natural springs, caves, waterfalls, natural bridges, and box-like canyons.

Pg. 28 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center www.discoverrussellville.org ~ Pg. 29 A big little town with a blend of Southern and Midwestern charm, Russellville is an attractive stop for travelers looking for outdoor adventure, friendly folks, nostalgic appeal, or just to relax amid the sounds of nature. There’s 38. RUSSELLVILLE COUNTRY CLUB: Founded in 1926 by an enterprising group of 71 men. For information on green fees and membership, call the club at something for everyone, food for all (479) 968-1139. 186 Country Club Plaza north of Russellville off AR Hwy. 7, tastes, and a strong sense of community. Russellville. www.golfrcc.com. Russellville is a small city with a big 39. DISC GOLF: A sport played much like traditional golf but with major heart, and the natural choice for your next differences. Disc golfers use flying discs, or a type of Frisbee. Russellville features two 18-hole “champion caliber” disc golf courses. The first is located destination in the Natural State. 0.8 miles north of Russellville on Pleasant View Rd., and the second at 1598 Lock & Dam Road, off of AR Hwy. 7. For information, contact the Recreation and Parks Dept. at (479) 968-1272. The Natural Choice in the Natural State.

40. RUSSELLVILLE CONNECTED TRAIL SYSTEM: The city of Russellville has put its best foot forward in the creation of the Russellville Connected Trail System. This coordinated effort links all of Russellville's hiking and biking trails by a network of paths throughout the city using its existing roads, sidewalks, and a few new passages. For more information, visit www.discoverrussellville.org. ABOUT the River Valley Magazine is proud to partner with the Russellville Tourism & Visitor's ‘Top 40’ is updated regularly. To have your event or organization considered Center in sharing and supporting the character of for future inclusion, contact: Christie Graham, Executive Director of the Russellville and the surrounding River Valley. Tourism and Visitors Center 708 W. Main, Russellville; (479) 967-1762. To learn more about the people and happenings of For an updated list of events and happenings in the River Valley, visit www.discoverrussellville.org/calendar.html and follow our calendar, Russellville and the Arkansas River Valley, subscribe to or pickup a copy of our calendar at the Tourism and Visitors Center. ABOUT Magazine today at www.aboutrvmag.com or call (479) 219-5031 for details.

Pg. 30 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center

At the intersection of I-40 and National Scenic Hwy 7

Branson

MISSRI

ARASAS Harrison

Hwy. 7 atl. to Fort Smith Scenic Byway

Russellville

to Little Rock

Hwy. 7 atl. Scenic Byway

Hot Springs

www.discoverrussellville.org 479.967.1762

Photos courtesy of Liz Chrisman Photography, ABOUT...the River Valley Magazine, Larry Roberts, Lizette Sandoval, Arkansas Tech University and The Courier. Editorial content provided by Johnny Sain. Design by ZimCreative. Paid for with a combination of state funds and private regional association funds. 03/17/20 • 5K, Printed in USA Pg. 32 ~ Russellville Tourism & Visitors Center