Right at Arkansas' northern border with Missouri sits the beautiful city of Bella Vista – translating from Spanish meaning "beautiful sight" or "beautiful view." The 36,000-acre community in Benton County earned that name for the incredible scenery surrounding the area. The people here have made great use of the picturesque landscape, and the area was first developed as a summer resort destination in 1917. Now, a century later, 30,000 people call Bella Vista home.

Since the city sits within the Ozarks, there are plenty of lakes you could visit. Some are perfect for flying down the water in a recreational boat, water skiing, or doing other sporty pastimes. Some folks like to go out to the quieter, calmer lakes to fish or swim, and some are perfect for canoeing or kayaking. Since there are so many to choose from, they don’t get too crowded, and you can find a spot just for yourself or link up with a bigger group. The thing that makes the waterfront views so spectacular, though, isn't just the variety available; the lakes there are known for the spectacular quality of the water.

There are over 150 miles of developed trails for hiking and mountain biking around Bella Vista. Similar to the lakes, there is an option for most recreationalists. The Back 40 trail leads through 40 miles of quiet and mysterious backwoods if you're up for a challenge. If you're in for a unique adventure, you might choose a trail within Blowing Springs Park that highlights a magnificent bridge with a rock shelf that connects to a lower trail leading to a cavern. For a light walk, there's a 1.75-mile nicely paved trail that loops around Lake Bella Vista, making for a perfect afternoon stroll.

If smacking the ball is your preferred way to spend your time outdoors, you may want to visit one of Bella Vista's seven different golf courses. Tournaments are hosted here frequently due to the gorgeous scenery. Across those seven courses, there is a range of lengths, difficulty levels, and landscapes so that there's truly something for everyone. For the more experienced golfer, this is the place for you, featuring some of the most challenging courses in the country. If you're looking for a more laid-back atmosphere or a place to take the kids, there are two different 9-hole golf courses to choose from, as well as a practice center and driving range.

Of course, you don't have to spend time outdoors to enjoy the views. Stop by for a Wine and Spirit Tasting at Lakepoint Restaurant and get a beautiful view of the lake. See incredible forests from Gear Garden, where you can grab a burger and a Trailhead Lager, brewed specially for the restaurant at the Bella Vista Property Owners Association. Try out the comfort food at BV Bar and Grill for a meal that's quick, delicious, and affordable.

At Natural State Wildlife Solutions, we truly value the incredible outdoor landscapes right in our backyard. Our goal is to protect and preserve nature, and we understand that doing that means wildlife and people need to stay in their own zones. That requires a careful but firm technique, and you won't find any better methods than at Natural State. Contact us today.