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Move Together, River Valley — Let’s Get Moving!
Move Together, River Valley — Let’s Get Moving!
Discover local ways to boost your health this week — from parks and bike trails to a walk with a wagging tail.
Author
Oct 20, 2025
🌿 “Move Together Week” Edition |
Cooler mornings. Brighter trails. A little more reason to step outside and breathe in the season.
This week’s issue is all about motion — moving our bodies, clearing our minds, and connecting with our community.
From the science behind why exercise heals us, to local parks and trails ready for exploring (and even a chance to walk a shelter pup), we’ve rounded up simple ways to feel good and do good right here in the River Valley.
So lace up, grab a friend, and let’s get moving together. |
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Every step matters, and local science backs it up.
A recent review in Nature Reviews Endocrinology reveals that physical activity transforms our health far beyond calorie burning.
Exercise unlocks powerful shifts in the body — protecting the heart, elevating mood, and even boosting immune and eye health.
Here in the River Valley, autumn’s cool mornings and vibrant trails offer a perfect moment to get moving.
Even 30 minutes of walking improves blood pressure, steadies blood sugar, and lifts spirits.
Local green spaces, from Fort Smith’s scenic trails to Van Buren’s riverfront, amplify these effects, reducing stress while connecting neighbors.
Community initiatives like Fort Smith Animal Haven’s volunteer dog-walking program make exercise meaningful, benefiting residents and shelter pets alike.
Grab a friend, leash up a pup, and discover how movement fuels health and connection right here at home. Read More... |
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Autumn in the River Valley means ideal weather for exploring local bike trails.
Fort Smith and Van Buren offer options for every rider, from gentle family routes to challenging forest paths.
The Greg Smith River Trail runs six scenic miles along the Arkansas River, perfect for relaxed rides with sunset views.
Ben Geren Regional Park features over a dozen miles of trails—both paved and off-road, with picnic spots and easy parking to turn your outing into a day of fun.
For adventure seekers, Springhill Park Mountain Bike Trail in Barling is a wooded 10-mile loop packed with roots, climbs, and creek crossings, popular among experienced mountain bikers.
Don’t forget safety basics: check your bike, wear a helmet, and bring lights for late rides.
With local shops to help beginners and peak fall color on display, now’s the time to get outside and pedal toward better health. Read More... |
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If your daily stroll could use a boost, Fort Smith Animal Haven’s new “Human Walking” program offers a fun twist: shelter dogs become your energetic walking buddies.
Every Tuesday from 5 p.m. until dark, volunteers are welcome to the shelter, ready to be paired with a friendly four-legged “coach.”
The walks can take you through peaceful neighborhoods, nearby parks, or safe play areas, making it a relaxing and healthy outing for everyone.
Studies show that walking with dogs reduces stress, boosts activity, and brightens your mood.
Most importantly, these outings help the pups stay social, confident, and ready for adoption.
Bring comfy shoes and a positive spirit—this may be Fort Smith’s most rewarding way to get moving. Read More... |
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🗓️ GET OUT & GO | LOCAL EVENTS TO KEEP YOU MOVING |
Events that get your heart pumping and your body moving this week across the River Valley. |
🏃♀️ Glow in the Park 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run |
📍 Ben Geren Park | Fort Smith 🕖 Fri, Oct 24 | 7 PM |
🛍 Fort Smith Farmers Market |
📍 Garrison Ave at 1st Street | Fort Smith 🕖 Sat, Oct 25 | 7 AM – Noon |
🚗 Coughran’s Hot Rod Car Show (Downtown Van Buren) |
📍 Main Street Historic District | Van Buren 🕙 Sat, Oct 25 | 10 AM – 3 PM |
🧘♀️ Wellness Fall Festival (at Natural Drip) |
📍 3000 Rogers Ave | Fort Smith 🕞 Sun, Oct 26 | 3 PM – 6 PM |
🐾 “Human Walking” — Walk a Shelter Pup |
📍 Fort Smith Animal Haven, 9501 Black Bear Trail | Fort Smith 🕔 Tue, Oct 21 | 5 PM – Dark (weather permitting) |
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🏃♀️ Move Together Week |
This week’s forecast couldn’t be better for a little motion.
Whether it’s a quick walk through your favorite park, a bike ride along the Greg Smith River Trail, or an evening volunteering as a “Human Walker” at Fort Smith Animal Haven — pick one way to move and make it happen.
You’ll feel better, sleep better, and smile more (guaranteed by both science and wagging tails).
🏃♀️ Move your body, lift your mood, and keep the River Valley rolling.
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🌦 Plan Your Week Outdoors |
Monday, Oct 20 – Monday, Oct 27
Humidity drops in the early week making it perfect for a park walk; later in the week keep an eye on the skies.
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