People so often ask "What can we do in the Winter in Mountain View?" Well, aside from the obvious- snuggling in a cozy Fireside Retreat- I always say "take a hike"! The crowds have dispersed, the snakes are sleeping, and the bugs are gone. THIS is the perfect time to head out and explore Mountain View, my favorite corner of the Ozarks! Whether you're looking for an all-day adventure on rugged single-track or a short paved walk to a waterfall, there's a perfect adventure just waiting for you. The Mirror Lake Trail is an easy family friendly hike for everyone in your group. Keep reading for info on one of my favorite easy trails!
In the town of Fifty-Six, just a few miles northwest of Mountain View, you will find Blanchard Springs Recreational Area, a "must-visit" when you're in the Ozarks.
Mirror Lake Hiking Trail
Rated "easy", the trail around Mirror Lake is a good option for kids and for those looking for a less strenuous hike. This flat and lightly trafficked 1.3 mile loop follows the banks of Mirror Lake with a great view of the dam and Mirror Lake Waterfall as well as the ruins of The Old Mill just below the falls. The area is dog-friendly, but furbaby must be kept on a leash. For those with mobility issues, there is designated handicapped parking area and an accessible boardwalk, too. In the same area (just past the lake) there is a short paved and accessible walkway to a gorgeous waterfall that flows from Blanchard Springs Caverns. Follow GPS to Blanchard Springs and follow the directional signs to Mirror Lake on the right.
About Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake is a three-acre rainbow trout haven, is constantly fed by the 58-degree water flowing from Blanchard Springs Caverns. The Civilian Conservation Corps built the stone and concrete dam that created the lake and stunning waterfall during the 1930s. Not only is it a great place for an easy hike, it's also one of the places I recommend for fishing in Mountain View since it's regularly stocked with trout.
Take a detour off the main trail to see the Old Mill. The ruins of this Civilian Conservation Corps project are the perfect backdrop for a photos, with the waterfall visible from the window opening.
In the same area (just past the lake) there is a short paved and relatively accessible (though bumpy) walkway beside a clear stream that leads to a gorgeous waterfall that gushes from Blanchard Springs Caverns. Just park at the turnaround at the end of the road and take the walkway to the end.
Grab the family, or head out for a solo adventure! There are many ways to explore Mountain View, AR. And, when the day's adventures are done, get cozy in a Fireside Retreat!
Reach out with questions. I'd love to host your Ozark getaway!
~Emily
Owner and Host
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