Pedestal Rocks

On the way up to Eureka Springs we wanted to stop and stretch our legs while checking out a trail neither of us had been on before: Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area close to Pelsor, Ar. We were coming up on Hwy 7 from Russellville so we took a East turn on Hwy 16 to get there. There are 2 short loop trails here, the Kings Bluff 1.7 mi and the Pedestal Rocks 2.2 mi. J had his "big" camera equipment with him so I knew this hike would be all about the photo ops. It was a cold but luckily sunny day and we decided to try the Kings Bluff trail first.  After a few minutes of typical scenary we see the sign reminding parents to keep a close eye on kids. Danger Ahead.

The trail opens up to the bluffs and one of the first sights is a tall waterfall. The icicles were beautiful.This is an area that was hit very hard by the ice storm in Winter of 2009. Much of the damage to the woodlands is still visible. Next came the formations the area is named for- the pedestal rocks. So pretty, so many caves and breakaways and even in the dead of winter the color was magnificent with all the moss, lichen and weathering of the rocks.  It took us a ridiculous amount of time to finish that 1.7 miles. We were so caught up in the ice and rocks.

We spent so much time playing and taking pictures that we decided to eat our sandwiches and head on up to Eureka with plans to do Pedestal Rocks on the way home. The weather was still cold but it was also overcast so the light wasn't great for pictures. I expected fewer people to be there since it was a Tuesday at lunchtime but there were several cars including a large family gathering all bundled up to have a picnic. Much of the ice had melted away and there wasn't as much water flowing but we did find some cool "chimney" formations and a "natural bridge". All in all, a really cool place to stretch out your legs.