Hiking

Newton County has some of the most splendid hiking trails you have ever been on. Hiking is a year round event here and in each season you will find many different things to see.

Spring offers an abundance of wildflowers, redbuds, sarvice, and dogwoods. The leaves are just popping out and with the spring rains, you have the advantage of viewing some spectacular waterfalls.

Summer is the least popular time to hike because of the heat and pesky critters but is also a beautiful time of year. The foliage is thick, wildflowers are everywhere, and there is always a good spot to jump in the cool water of the Buffalo and go swimming.

Now, fall? Fall is just wonderful. Cool days, clean air, the changing of the colors in the leaves. There is no way to describe it; you have to experience it.

Believe it or not, our winters, which are relatively mild, are great times for hiking. Without the leaves on the trees, you can see so much more -- rock bluffs, deer, elk, squirrels -- you can see for miles from the tops of the mountains and explore under rock ledges and in the hollows.

Hiking is four seasons of fun for all ages. A few of the many hiking trails in the area are listed below, but for additional information, the Forest Service can supply you with detailed books and maps on all of them.