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Thursday, April 21, 2016

Travel Thursday: Queen Wilhelmina State Park



Queen Wilhelmina is a child's paradise and remains one of our favorite Arkansas State Parks.  Not only are there gorgeous scenic views all around, but there are endless activities for the whole family.  




We even had a beautiful view from the RV!  See that big field across from our campsite?  Perfect for playing ball, throwing a frisbee, or numerous other games and sports.  There are even some great trees for climbing!


Spring Trail was closed during our stay, but we were able to hike Lovers Leap and the Reservoir Trail.  



Lovers Leap is a 1.3 mile moderate trail with breathtaking views!  The first time we started behind the lodge, and the second time we hiked it in reverse starting in front of the lodge.  You capture different views depending on which way you hike the trail, but all of the views are magnificent.  


The highlight is the overlook on a high rock bluff.  


Part of the trail has some small boulders to climb and there are a couple of steep climbs.


We carried our 5 month and 2 year old.  Our 3 year old was able to complete the trail (with a lesson in endurance and doing everything without complaining and grumbling).  Our 5 &6 year old had no problems completing the trail.  I would highly recommend this hike for families!  Bring a snack (or picnic lunch) to take a rest and enjoy God's beauty displayed at the overlook!


The Reservoir Trail is a 2/3 mile round trip hike down the hill to a stone reservoir.  There are no spectacular views of the mountain or valley below, but we saw dozens of beautiful butterflies.  




“Creation is the vocal chords of God speaking each day through the colors of the sunrise, the vastness of the night sky,the teeming of life in the ocean, the majesty of the mountains.” 

― Eric Samuel TimmStatic Jedi: The Art of Hearing God Through the Noise

When you are done hiking, take a stop in Mountain Glory Station (open Memorial Day thru Labor Day). Enjoy an ice cream cone or sundae to cool off and then board the miniature train for a scenic ride around the mountain.  





There is also a train engine, which was another big hit with the kids!


Tuckered out?  Sit on one of the rocking chairs at the newly renovated lodge and enjoy the view!

I also recommend that at some point during the stay you check out some of the park programs.  We thoroughly enjoyed Sunset Art in the Park and Nature Art.  



Caldera Chicken Curry

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