There are several reasons why people love sunsets. One reason is that sunsets are often visually stunning, with vibrant colors and a sense of beauty that can be mesmerizing. The changing colors of the sky as the sun sets can create a sense of awe and wonder in people, inspiring feelings of peace and relaxation.
Another reason why people might love sunsets is that they represent the end of the day and the beginning of a new one. Sunsets can be a reminder to take stock of the day that has passed, appreciate its beauty and reflect on its challenges. It can also be a time to look forward to the promise of a new day and the opportunities it brings.
Additionally, sunsets can be a symbol of the passing of time, reminding us of the impermanence of life and the need to appreciate the present moment. The fleeting nature of sunsets can make them feel more precious and valuable.
Overall, people love sunsets for a variety of reasons, including their visual beauty, their ability to inspire feelings of peace and reflection, and their symbolic significance.
We are lucky in Arkansas to have so many great places to view. Last month we asked you about your favorite spots to enjoy sunsets. We were surprised to find the top votes going to spots in the Arkansas River Valley and the Ouachita Mountains. Here are your top five in reverse order with the percentage of the vote listed:
5 – The Big Dam Bridge, Little Rock (9%)
There is just something about watching the sunset across the water and The Big Dam Bridge does not disappoint. Looking across the Arkansas River and watching the sun drop behind Pinnacle Mountain is one of the bonuses of this recreation and transportation facility that was opened in 2006. It helps that the spot is easy to reach via bike or foot right in the city.
4 – Petit Jean State Park, Morrillton (11%)
Arkansas’s first state park has a couple of great spots for enjoying the sunset. Visitors can enjoy the view both from Mather Lodge or the CCC overlook on Red Bluff Drive. A nice touch is to grab dinner at the Restaurant at Mather Lodge, get a table along the windows, and enjoy a meal and a classic Arkansas sunset at the same time.
We would also recommend an early morning trip to Stout’s Point for a beautiful sunrise.
3 – Mount Nebo State Park, Dardanelle (14%)
Sunset Point at Mount Nebo State Park is a favorite gathering point for locals and visitors on any night. Go early, bring a camp chair or blanket, and enjoy. For a bonus experience, visit the Brass in the Clouds performance by the Arkansas Tech University Department of Music and enjoy your sunset as the light bounces off the brass instruments as they play out the sun. Watch for this September event.
Tie 1 – Flatside Pinnacle Mountain, Eastern Ouachita Mountains (20%)
Flatside Pinnacle Mountain is the most remote spot our viewers picked and tied as the most popular. Being out in the Ouachita Mountains on the eastern edge of the Flatside Wilderness, this spot not only has a great view of the sunset but the dark sky gives visitors the bonus show of a sky full of stars. This is also a favorite spot to watch meteor showers and other celestial events.
Tie 2 – Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Little Rock (20%)
Another park with a couple of great spots to watch the sunset. If you want to watch from the park, remember that it closes down one hour after sunset so be prepared to hike out after the sunset. While most people think of the top of Pinnacle Mountain as being the optimum spot for watching the sunset, visitors are learning about another great spot in the East Quarry area.
Please be safe when heading out to watch sunsets, particularly in wild areas. Bring a light (headlamps work best) for the hike out. Bring water and a snack. Also, be prepared for the trail to look different in the dark. We recommend checking with parks to verify times that visitors can be on the trails.
All photos are courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.
We are currently conducting our April Survey. If you are a trail runner, we’d love to know your favorite Arkansas Trail Running Event. Go to our Survey Page to be heard and to see the results of other surveys.
