Rose Verbena

All posts tagged Rose Verbena

Wandering in the Spring Forest searching for Wildflowers

Posted by Lee Hiller on April 20, 2018
Posted in: Hot Springs National Park. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , . 1 Comment

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Spring is the beginning of wildflower hunting season.  To all my fellow wanderers (and those longing to wander) breath in the new green and enjoy Nature’s spectacular pallet of tiny blossoms.

Love to ALL!
Lee

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Elusive Winged Beauty in the Heat

Posted by Lee Hiller on June 19, 2013
Posted in: Hot Springs National Park. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . 1 Comment

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I visited the Forest estate in Malvern again and was surprised by the variety of birds.  Even though some of the grounds were being mowed and they did not appear to be used to humans seeking them out they did allow me to glimpse their beauty.

It was 103 in Hot Springs when my beloved husband and I took a short (very short hike).  I spotted a lovely Mockingbird singing, it held its wings slightly open as it wove a melody.  I wonder if the wing position gave some relief from the overpowering heat and humidity.

Love to ALL!
Lee

The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring Tra La

Posted by Lee Hiller on March 29, 2013
Posted in: Hot Springs National Park. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Leave a comment

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My Father use to sing softly as we tended the garden together.  A favorite was the Gilbert and Sullivan tune “The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring”  (Mikado)

The flowers that bloom in the spring,
Tra la,
Breathe promise of merry sunshine —
As we merrily dance and we sing,
Tra la,
We welcome the hope that they bring,
Tra la,

The day before he passed away my 82 year old Father sent my 66 year old Mother a note containing a pressed Violet (her favorite flower) from their garden.  His only message “The flowers that bloom in the spring, Tra la”.  Love, Joe

Whenever I see Violets along the trail I am reminded of their Love and Friendship.

Love to ALL!
Lee

First Hike in Cedar Glades Park Arkansas

Posted by Lee Hiller on March 26, 2012
Posted in: Hot Springs National Park. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . 2 Comments

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The first thing I need to mention about this hike, the trails are mixed use.  Hikers and mountain bikes share the same narrow trails. For this reason my husband and I hiked the blue trail clockwise even though the markers are displayed counter clockwise.  We decided it was safer to see the cyclists coming so we could get out of their way. Although it was a Sunday morning we only encountered only 2 riders during our 3.84 mile hike. Both cyclist were come at a good clip so it is wise to be prepared to step off the tail. This said I feel fellow hikers should have this information before heading out. (see printable map below for list of trails)

This is not a full on mountain hike, it is instead a peasant hill and dale terrain.  I would highly recommend hiking boots as the blue trail is narrow, rocky with continuous exposed roots.   The free flowing streams have both man-made and rock bridges for all weather condition crossings.  Also be aware there are no benches for those wishing to sit and rest along the trail.

The Trees were alive with song during our hike, but we did not catch sight of any birds.  I believe the mountain bike usage may have made them wary of coming close to the trail edges.  Butterflies, Lizards and Hummingbird Moths were abundant throughout our hike.  As the weather heats up areas around springs should become a great place to spot turtles, snakes and frogs as well. Next time we will go a bit earlier in the morning as the trails numerous natural springs likely attract larger wildlife as well.  In late April or early May when all the Trees are in full leaf it should be like hiking in a mini rain forest.

Please note this is a multipurpose park and some areas will be noisier than others.  This said once we were on the back side of the blue trail we heard only sounds of Nature.  For a family seeking a variety of activities there is a rock wall, Frisbee golf, hiking, biking even a hike-in campsite.  Clean modern bathrooms are available at both entrances/trail heads.  This is a great road trip stopping point for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages or a fun FREE use day trip.

Love to All!
Lee

Cedar Glades Park Arkansas Trail Map