Having a baby has had some challenges for outdoorsy people like us. Usually, fall is when we kick it into high gear with backpacking and hiking. A standard week for us held at least three evening hikes, and usually a couple backpacking trips per month.... Obviously, with a 4 month old, you can't operate on that sort of schedule. Naps, feeding, overstimulation, etc.... the list goes on, and nobody likes an unhappy baby; even if she is gorgeous. This has forced us to get creative in our outdoor endeavors, which has led to discovering some new (at least to us) areas to hike in! Thanks to the All Trails app, we figured out that one of our local Civil War battlefields has a few hiking trails that we hadn't even considered exploring until now. Pea Ridge National Park offers up right around 10 miles of *actual* trails, however, the Park Ranger informed me that you are technically allowed to walk ANYWHERE in the park. This means that you have roughly 4,300 acres to wander around and see some REALLY neat history. The park contains relics such as cannons, homesteads, historical markers, foundations, and LOTS of beautiful scenery. We've taken a few day hikes and discovered *most* of the marked trails, but the Rangers have been more than helpful in pointing us towards exciting alternative routes. These have taken us along the parks borders and through some of the wooded interiors. We've walked Civil War era fence lines, and right through the middle of hay fields! The other benefit to hiking somewhere like this Civil War Battlefield is the lack of crowds! It seems that people either just don't know or aren't interested in hiking in this sort of area which is a real shame because I'd consider it a hidden gem among Arkansas day hikes. There is a $15.00 per vehicle fee that you pay OR you can do like us, and get the $30 per year pass. We've already paid for it and plan to use it a whole lot more! If you haven't had the opportunity to check out Pea Ridge National Military Park, I'd highly recommend it. You won't be disappointed! Also, if you have any historical National Parks near you (Arkansas offers a few!), give them a ring and ask them about their trail system! You might be surprised at what they offer. Happy 100th Birthday, National Park Serivce!
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