May 24, 2026

Looking for somewhere new to walk the dog this summer? Whether your pup loves a quick neighborhood stroll, shady lakeside paths, or enough room to burn off some serious energy, the River Valley has more options than you might think.

We rounded up a mix of local recommendations, community favorites, and scenic trails around the area to help you and your four-legged friend enjoy the outdoors.

Before you go, remember: summer heat arrives fast in Arkansas. Bring water, watch hot pavement temperatures, and keep flea and tick prevention up to date—especially on wooded trails.

Looking for an easy everyday walk? Lake Lou Emma has become a favorite local option for dog owners in Van Buren. Located behind Chick-fil-A and near 7 Brew, the paved walking area is convenient, accessible, and ideal for quick morning or evening outings.

A longtime Fort Smith favorite, Creekmore Park offers easy walking paths, open space, and plenty of room for a relaxed walk with your dog. If you’re looking for something low-stress and close to town, this is a solid choice.

Sometimes the best walk isn’t a trail at all. Downtown Van Buren is pet-friendly and makes for a fun change of pace, with sidewalks, historic buildings, and shops to explore along Main Street.

History lovers can bring their pups, too. Leashed dogs are welcome along the scenic walking areas at Fort Smith National Historic Site, where river views and shaded areas make for a surprisingly nice walk.

Frequently recommended by locals, the Lake Alma Trail offers one of the area’s better longer walks—just under four miles if you complete the loop. It’s scenic, peaceful, and gives dogs plenty of sights and smells to enjoy.

One of Alma’s newer walking options, Christello Park has quietly become a local recommendation for dog owners looking for a nice, less crowded place to walk.

Behind Mercy Hospital, Carol Ann Cross Park combines an easy pond walk with additional trails, including newer access toward the river. It offers a little more variety than your typical neighborhood park.

If you’re willing to drive a little farther south, Bell Park Trail in Greenwood offers a scenic, dog-friendly trail with more of a nature feel while still being approachable for casual walkers.

For dog owners looking for a little adventure, the Lake Greenwood trails provide beautiful scenery and quieter surroundings. These trails are dog-friendly when leashed and can make for a fun weekend outing with your pup.

One of the strongest all-around options in the River Valley, Ben Geren offers miles of paved and natural trails, giving active dogs plenty of room to stretch their legs. With multiple trail options, you can keep things short—or turn it into a serious workout.

Open stretches and river views make Rice Cardin a good pick for longer walks or dogs that need extra exercise.

If you want a quieter setting with a nature feel, Janet Huckabee’s walking trails offer a scenic option that feels just a little removed from the city.

And one honest local note: several River Valley residents warned that ticks are especially active this time of year, particularly on wooded trails like Colley Park—so prevention is worth taking seriously.

Have a favorite dog-walking trail or park in the River Valley? Hit reply or comment on Facebook—we’d love to add more local favorites to the list.

After a walk with the pup, here are a few things happening around the River Valley this week.

Kay Rogers Park • Fort Smith
May 25–30 • 7:30 PM nightly

One of the River Valley’s biggest traditions returns this week as Old Fort Days Rodeo rides back into Fort Smith. From bull riding and barrel racing to rodeo favorites the whole family can enjoy, it’s a classic kickoff to summer and Memorial Day week in the region.

Whether you’re a longtime rodeo fan or just looking for a fun night out, this is one of those annual River Valley events worth experiencing at least once.

Fort Smith Museum of History
May 29–30 • 1:30 PM

Love local history? This one sounds genuinely interesting.

The River Valley Film Society and Fort Smith Museum of History are presenting “The Western District,” a one-act historical play exploring one of the most controversial chapters in Fort Smith history—the relocation of the federal Western District Court from Van Buren to Fort Smith in 1871.

The production blends theater and history to tell the story of corruption, political drama, and frontier justice during Fort Smith’s early years.

If you enjoy local stories, history, or unique community events, this could be a hidden gem for the weekend.

Franklin County Fairgrounds • Ozark
May 29–30

Looking for something a little different? The 29th Annual Tractor Show in Ozark brings together antique tractors, vintage farm equipment, hay baling demonstrations, corn grinding, hit-and-miss engines, a swap meet, and concessions.

Whether you grew up around farm equipment or just enjoy seeing a piece of rural Arkansas history up close, this makes for a fun family outing—and a nice excuse for a scenic drive east.

We’ve been continuing to update and improve the new events experience at River Valley Local. From festivals and markets to live music and family activities, you can browse hundreds of upcoming events happening around the region at RiverValleyLocal.com/events.

Say hello to Herc—a big ole boy with an even bigger personality!

At 74 pounds of puppy, Herc is basically a lovable giant still figuring out what to do with all that excitement. He’s goofy, energetic, affectionate, and always wants to be part of the action.

Like a lot of young dogs, Herc is still learning his manners and would thrive with someone patient who can help guide all that enthusiasm in positive ways. With consistency, training, and a little structure, this oversized pup has all the makings of an incredible companion.

The good news? Herc is eager to learn, loves attention, and has a whole lot of love to give.

If you’re looking for a loyal best friend—and don’t mind a little puppy-sized chaos along the way—Herc just might be your perfect match.

🐶 Male
🐾 Puppy
⚖️ 74 lbs

Interested in meeting Herc? Contact Almost Home Shelter & Rescue for adoption information.

Whether you’re exploring a new walking trail, checking out a local event, or maybe even meeting a future best friend like Herc, we hope this week’s River Valley Local helps you enjoy a little more of what makes the River Valley special.

Have a great week, and we’ll see you around the River Valley.

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