Buffalo National River Partners will present, “Hiking the Ozarks and the Buffalo National River” with Kevin Middleton will be held Tuesday, Dec. 12, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the South Campus Room M145 of North Arkansas College in Harrison.
Middleton will be the Buffalo River Partners' featured speaker. A former park ranger, Middleton is a long-time outdoor enthusiast and highly regarded for his knowledge and experience of hiking the Ozarks and the trails surrounding the Buffalo National River. His presentation will outline basic hiking knowledge along with some of the do’s and don’ts to hiking in the beautiful Ozarks. He will also feature some of his favorite hiking trails throughout northern Arkansas that are family friendly and enjoyable this time of year.
The warm sunshine on your face, the sound of the wind rushing through the trees overhead, and the soft earthy feel of the trail under your boots. Not only are these experiences enjoyable to have, but they’re good for you, too. Hiking is proven to have many health benefits, ranging from physical exercise you get when out on the trail, to emotional or mental relief that comes from being in nature. Being in nature can also boost your mood and improve your mental health. Spending quality time in the great outdoors reduces stress, calms anxiety, and can lead to a lower risk of depression. Hiking with a partner, or even in a group, can improve the strength and health of your relationships. Because hiking ranges in difficulty from an extremely challenging climb to a casual way of spending time outside, it’s a great way to strengthen the friendships and bonds you have with your companions. With families soon getting together during the holiday season, hiking is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with family, get a good work out and improve your mental health!
