There’s a Grand Canyon in Arkansas? While it’s not listed as the eighth wonder of the world, our little nook of the globe does have its own splendid scenes, and the Arkansas Grand Canyon is definitely one of those.
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If you’re simply traveling along AR 7, southeast of Jasper, pull the pin and make a pit stop here for a breathtaking view during your Ozark family vacation. If you’re looking for a tranquil place perfect for a romantic weekend, rent a vacation home in the Fall (highly recommended) at The Arkansas Grand Canyon.
Its sites, history, and accommodations will leave a lasting memory.
What’s the Arkansas Grand Canyon?
Okay, so it’s not a canyon and more of a valley, but even geologists have a hard time explaining that distinction. The point is -- there are amazing views with elevation. The Arkansas Grand Canyon is a deep, lush valley made up by the meeting of seven different Boston Mountain peaks:
Jasper
Asia Point
Ricketts
Mount Judea
Hickory Hollow
Red Rock
Sloan
It offers a 1.3 million acre view of rolling hills, luscious treetops, and a uniquely different seasonal scene. On most days, you can even see right into Missouri from this breathtaking point of view. If you stop at the Cliff House Inn to take in the sights, you’ll have access to a restaurant, hotel, gift shop, and an observation tower.
It’s Really Vendor Valley
No bold discovery was made when the Arkansas Grand Canyon got its name. The name was born out of a marketing need, but it worked, and it stuck. It was known as Vendor Valley up until the 1970s.
The original owners of the Cliff House Inn needed a way to attract customers. They knew they had a site that would captivate attention, but they needed a way to draw it in first. Jane McNutt affectionately dubbed the area The Arkansas Grand Canyon. She and her husband made signs to place along AR 7, and the name has stuck for more than 50 years.
Things to Do at The Arkansas Grand Canyon
Obviously, the first of the list is site-seeing. If you’re just stopping through during your Ozark family road trip, the Cliff House Inn welcomes pit-stop guests with open arms. You can fill up on a downhome cooking type meal at their restaurant and continue on your way.
Suppose you’re looking for a little more. In that case, the Arkansas Grand Canyon is just under 10 miles from the Buffalo National River. Check out Explore the Buffalo National River and discover where you can go floating, ziplining, or hiking. There are more than 100 rentals to choose from in the area that offer these breathtaking views and quick access to river activities, so stay as little or as long as you like.
Ready to Plan Your Vacation?
There’s nothing to plan or book if you’re stopping through to see our own little wonder of the world at the Arkansas Grand Canyon. There’s plenty of parking to get in and out while placing this on your top to-do list. Still, if you’re like any of the 800,000 visitors that flock to the Buffalo National River every year, then you’ll want to get planning.
Catch a deal on the available vacation rentals for a stay with an unparalleled views.
There’s nothing like a family road trip to experience the Ozark scenery. Make traveling by car easier with a rental.
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