Location: Bella Vista, AR ↗

Tucked near the state line in Northwest Arkansas is a beautifully sloping, small town called Bella Vista—a former retirement community that only officially became a city less than 20 years ago (in 2006). Inside this gem of a village, you’ll find a little nature trail that’s worth a peek. Take your loved ones and spend an afternoon at Tanyard Creek Nature Trail to refresh and rejuvenate your spirits. Read on to find out what’s hidden inside and why it’s worth a visit.

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Snapshot: Nature Trail in the Ozarks

Here’s a quick look at what to expect on the Tanyard Creek Nature Trail in Bella Vista.

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The Experience

Finding Tanyard Creek Nature Trail is an easy task. There’s plenty of free parking available right by the trailhead. Once you park your car, you’ll walk along a paved path to begin your trek. Near the parking lot—there are restrooms, maps, doggy bags, and a water spigot for your furry family member if you choose to bring them along.

You’ll pass by an attractive pavilion with picnic tables near the start of the trail. This is a great place to stop and rest, wait for friends, or have a snack before or after your hike.

When you’re ready to begin your trek, follow the well-marked paths. You’ve got your choice between asphalt-paved trails and natural dirt trails. We took a crew that included three generations, including grandpa, his adult children, and grandchildren (3 and 4 years old) and the hike was suitable for everyone. This trail has options to accommodate different fitness levels, including:

• A quick leisurely stroll on the asphalt loop
• Longer dirt trails with variation in terrain for those looking for more of a challenge

With over two miles of trails that intersect with four smaller loops, this trail gives you the option to extend or shorten your jaunt depending on how far you feel like hiking. Some of the marked loops include:

• Paved walking loop
• Avalon branch trail
• Meadow loop
• Waterfall trail
• Tanyard creek trail

You’ll find a little bit of everything on Tanyard Creek Nature Trail, including a suspension bridge, cave, rock formations, waterfall, creek, and a dam at Lake Windsor. My favorite part was standing on the various bridges and watching the water trickle and flow over the rocks and down the creek. Just check out the beautiful photos we captured below:

What Else Does Tanyard Creek Have to Offer?

While Tanyard Creek Nature Trail was the highlight of our trip to Bella Vista, the town does have more to offer.

Next to a Massive Mountain Biking Trail System

While we walked on Tanyard Creek Nature Trail, we got a glimpse of the adjacent mountain biking trail system known as Little Sugar, which has 50 miles available for bikers and hikers to explore. The Back 40 trail system also connects to Bella Vista. Find maps here.

Hit the Driving Range

Bella Vista just might be a golfer’s haven. Along with the practice field, there are over half a dozen golf courses in the city, including:

• Berksdale Golf Course
• Brittany Golf Course
• Country Club Golf Course
• Dogwood Hills Golf Course
• Highlands Golf Course
• Kingswood Golf Course
• Scotsdale Golf Course

Planning Your Visit

If you’re planning a visit to this Bella Vista nature trail in the Ozarks, keep in mind that the tightly-knit community favors residents rather than tourists. That’s why the seven lakes are private. However, the trail systems welcome tourists and visitors with open arms.

The best time to visit the nature trail is spring and fall so that you can enjoy the waterfall and creek in full force without drenching in sweat from the summer heat. The area is very shady though, so families who are tough enough to face the heat may still enjoy the trail in summer. We took our trip in the fall and the trails were not very busy at all, making it quite a pleasurable experience!

Bring your hiking shoes or sandals and a backpack with water and/or lunch for a lovely picnic if you plan to hike the whole place. Dogs are welcome. Also, don’t forget to take Dramamine before you enter Bella Vista territory if you tend to get car sick because it’s quite mountainous! Shop our selection of carsick remedies from Amazon here.

Is Tanyard Creek Hiking Trail Worth it?

Tanyard Creek Nature Trail was well worth the visit. If you don’t have time or energy for the entire trail, make sure you see the waterfall for a memorable experience. It’s my favorite waterfall in the Ozarks!

Tips to Book Your Trip

Here are a few helpful links to plan your trip to the Bella Vista, Arkansas area

▶Book a Vacation Rental: Find a place to Stay in Bella Vista

▶Find a Local Hotel: Check dates and rates on Trip.com

▶Rent a Van: Road trips are the best way to experience the Ozarks, get the best rates on a van to fit the whole family from Economy Bookings

▶Reserve Your Tee Time: Get on the golf course during your visit by signing up with the Bella Vista POA