Life is a great adventure…accept it in such a spirit.
— Theodore Roosevelt
Date Created: Hot Springs National Park was designated a national reservation on April 20, 1832, and it became a national park on March 4, 1921.
Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas, USA.
Size: Approximately 5,549 acres (2,245 hectares).
Located in the Ouachita Mountains thermal waters flow – not from volcanic action but from a combination of rock types and fractures which allow deep 4,000 year-old waters from the earth to percolate up to the surface at 143*. The main attraction of course is the healing waters. In the early 1800s there was such interest from health seekers a booming town set up services. Bathhouse Row, a series of nine bathhouses in the town accommodated the crowds. Currently indoor soaking opportunities can be purchased at two facilities. I chose Buckstaff Bathhouse for an amazing thermal soak and massage! From the cast iron 1800’s tub with a 40 minute whirlpool soak, loofah scrub, hot towel soak, personal sized steam room and massage I was in bliss – all for under $100 excluding tips. My skin was soft and glowed! Fountains of these mineral enriched waters, both hot and cold, are located throughout town for public use. (Yes I stood in line to fill my gallon drinking water jug.) Additional there are 26 miles of hiking trails, a beautiful scenic drive, a Mountain Tower, museums, historic buildings and unique shops to keep your attention for days.
