🍁 Welcome to November!

Cooler temps and changing leaves make this one of the best seasons to move your body outdoors.

Whether you’re heading to a scenic trail, taking a neighborhood walk, or sipping warm tea on the porch, these next few weeks are a great chance to reset your routine, support your wellness, and enjoy the beauty of the River Valley.

This issue brings you fall-friendly hiking ideas, smart cold-weather hydration tips, and a look at two local races happening this month.

Let’s get into it!

Crisp autumn mornings and golden leaves in the River Valley make fall the ideal time to refresh your fitness routine outdoors.

This season brings cooler temperatures, scenic views, and fewer crowds, turning exercise into a more enjoyable experience for everyone from beginners to trail veterans.

Hiking and walking local trails offer cardio, balance, and a calming nature escape, supporting both mental and physical health—like reduced stress, better sleep, and improved heart health.

Top regional spots, such as Carol Ann Cross Park Loop in Fort Smith, Lee Creek Reservoir in Van Buren, Devil’s Den State Park in West Fork, and Ben Geren Greenway, invite adventurers to embrace fall color and diverse trails.

Layer clothing, stay hydrated, and let someone know your plans for a safe and rewarding hike.

Challenge yourself: even three short outdoor sessions this week can make a difference for body and mind.

River Valley residents have a fresh reason to hit the trails as cooler weather settles in, offering perfect conditions for outdoor adventure.

From easy lakeside strolls to moderate bluff climbs, the region features four standout spots: Yellow Rock Trail at Devil’s Den rewards hikers with sweeping valley views, especially vibrant with autumn foliage.

Fort Smith’s Torraine Lake Loop is an inviting, paved path ideal for casual walkers, beginners, and families with strollers seeking a little peace close to home.

Lee Creek Reservoir’s North Ridge in Van Buren offers wooded escapes, scenic overlooks, and an easy-to-moderate challenge for those craving brisk exercise amid fall colors.

Meanwhile, Ben Geren Greenway delivers a flat, accessible route for walkers, cyclists, and runners looking to stay active without leaving the city.

Grab your water bottle, layer up, and enjoy nature’s reset this season.

Staying hydrated is just as important in cold weather as in the heat.

Cool, dry air draws moisture from your skin and lungs, making it easy to underestimate fluid loss even when you don’t feel thirsty.

Mild dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, dry skin, and trouble focusing.

Drinking water steadily throughout the day is essential—especially if you’re bundled up or getting outdoors for a winter walk or workout.

Warm drinks like herbal teas and soups, alongside water-rich foods such as apples and winter squash, all help keep you hydrated and energized.

Carry a reusable water bottle, consider adding electrolytes for long activities, and monitor signs like dry lips, headaches, or dark urine.

Try for eight 8-ounce glasses daily—simple habits now will keep you feeling your best this winter.

Upcoming River Valley Events

Whitney’s Race 2025

📅 When & Where: Saturday, Nov 8, 2025 — Fort Smith, AR (5K & 10K)

What to Know: Lace up for this local charity run through scenic city streets — perfect for walkers, first-time runners, and seasoned athletes alike.

Why It Matters: A great opportunity to combine fitness with community good will as we transition into cooler weather and shorter days.

Learn More

Gobbler 5K, 10K & Half Marathon

📅 When & Where: Saturday, Nov 15, 2025 — Ben Geren Regional Park, Fort Smith, AR

What to Know: Take on a fall challenge amid crisp air and vibrant foliage. Choose the 5K, 10K, or half-marathon distance — all routes wind through one of the region’s favorite greenways and park spaces.

Why It Matters: A mid-November event like this is ideal for staying active as the season cools — whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply getting outside for movement and scenery.

Learn More

Visit River Valley Events Online

Looking for more wellness-friendly, move-outside-the-house ideas?

Head to www.myRiverValleyEvents.com for a full calendar of upcoming outdoor, fitness, and community gatherings.

Easy to filter by date, location, and activity type — and always updated.

Plan ahead so you don’t just read about wellness — you live it.

💡 Mini Habit: “Sip Before You Step”

Before leaving the house — even for a short walk, errand, or school drop-off — drink half a glass of water.

It’s a tiny habit that builds hydration into your day without adding work.

Over time, you’ll notice better energy and fewer dry-weather headaches.

Try it for one week and see how you feel.

Thank you for spending part of your Monday with us.

Whether you try a new trail, sign up for a local race, or simply add a few sips of water into your routine, we hope this issue helps you feel grounded and energized heading into late fall.

Stay curious. Stay moving.

We’ll see you next week. 💚

— River Valley Healthy Living