Visiting the Elk

Who would have thought? Elk in Arkansas!

Apparently they introduced them some years back and my dad has been hearing all about it and just had to go see for himself. So we planned a field trip of sorts this past Thursday with my parents and took off to enjoy the gorgeous day.

The elk are best seen in the early mornings or early evenings, so we planned our day to include drive time on Scenic AR Hwy 7 through the Ozark Mountains (although, frankly, it was beautiful everywhere we drove).

We had fun stopping at several little antique/junk/souvenir shops along our way. Where my dad promptly lost his mind and bought the kiddos rubber band guns!!! Thankfully they weren't given any ammo while on the trip.

Finally, late in the day, we arrived at Boxley Valley. I was quite surprised at how many people were out parked along the road waiting for the elk to appear. Lots of photographers, too.

Our first drive through the valley only produced about three elk grazing amongst some cows. But there were so many people parked, waiting, that we were sure they knew more than we did and something must be about to happen.

So we parked and got out and explored the surrounding rock formations~my family can never resist climbing the nearest big rock:)

Then it was time to take a final drive back through the valley.

And there they were! Over 40 of them! They are a magnificent animal. I've seen them in Colorado, of course, but never expected to see a herd in Arkansas.

It was quite the sight and a fun excursion for the kiddos. We learned some interesting facts about the elk and enjoyed some AR hillbilly fun along the way, driving through some of my favorite mountains.

I love the above photo~it's so Northern Exposure, isn't it? (A show that I miss, btw).

The day ended with the most beautiful sunset up in the mountains. I snapped this shot right out the car window and loved the effect.

It's so fun to explore the places where you live, isn't it?