There’s a reason it’s called The Natural State. Here are some of the best ways to get outside in Arkansas.

SUP YOGA

Miranda Yelvington

Miranda Yelvington

Life is about balance, right? That and a little determination are all you need to find your zen with this perfectly summer sport. Known simply as SUP, stand-up paddle boarding can be done just about anywhere, just note there’s a huge difference between low and strong current SUP. Want to take this full-body workout to the next level? Join a SUP yoga class and enjoy falling out of tree pose for once.

“Arkansas offers some of the most beautiful waterways in the country. If you want to stay close to the city, the Arkansas and Little Maumelle Rivers offer some great areas. If you are looking to join SUP Yoga 501 for some paddle board yoga, Lake Norrell is the perfect place. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission makes sure it’s safe for swimming, so falling off the board is a necessity.” — JoAnn Camp, owner of SUP 501 Yoga

Miranda Yelvington
SUP 501 Yoga students take to the water for their summertime practice where falling over is a welcome relief.

HIKING

Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
Clockwise from top: Pinnacle Mountain, Emerald Park, Lake Catherine State Park

The Natural State has no shortage of hiking trails — hundreds of miles worth, in fact.

Looking for a killer sunset show? You’ve got it. Want the extra sun protection of canopy coverage? No problem. With paved walking paths, heart rate-spiking treks and everything in between, there’s a trail for whatever workout, view or vibe you’re looking for.

TEAM FIT FAVORITES

Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Easy: Kingfisher Trail, 1/2 mile
Moderate: Rocky Valley Trail, 2 miles
Strenuous: East Summit Trail, 1.5 miles

Emerald Park Trail: 5.3 miles

Burns Park: Green Loop Trail, 5 miles

CANOEING/KAYAKING

Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
Clockwise from top left: Cossatot River, Buffalo River, Lake Fort Smith

Some say that if you’ve never floated its rivers, streams or lakes, you haven’t truly experienced Arkansas. We tend to agree.

Along with providing some much needed relief from the summer heat, local waterways also offer views of The Natural State you can’t see anywhere else. Grab your life jacket and prepare to get an upper body workout that will leave you sore in the best way.

Find your next float trip as close as the Little Maumelle Water Trail at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Saline River, Cadron Creek, Lake Ouachita or make the day trip to the Buffalo River. Just make sure to do your homework. You don’t want to wander into rapids on what you thought was a slow, relaxing float.

Need new gear? See The Gear List: 24 Things You'll Need to Get Outside.

BIKING

Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
Clockwise from top left: Hobbs State Park, Arkansas River Trail, Lake Ouachita Vista Trail

Shoutout to Arkansas for having a full range of bike trails across the state. Cyclists will find a great mix of cityscapes and scenic outlooks, even on the same ride. City folk and nature lovers alike enjoy the Camp Robinson trails, Boyle Park, Harper’s Loop, Tour of Petit Jean and Lake Maumelle Loop, and are just a short drive from Enders Fault. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, never fear; the Arkansas River Trail’s 88-mile loop covers just about everything.

EVENTS

May 20: Arvest Little Rock Gran Fondo
June 3: Tour de Rock
July 15: Wampoo Roadeo
Sept. 9-10: Bike MS
Sept. 23: Big Dam Bridge 100
Nov. 19: Attila the Hun