Sat., October 24th, 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Come experience the forest at Hobbs like never before – with costumed animal characters and some seemingly “wicked” as well as “good” humans.  Become part of the story as you “follow the yellow brick road” in search of the Wizard in this fun, interactive program. As you journey along the paved Ozark Plateau Trail, a 0.25-mile, ADA accessible trail, you will discover how the forest was changed by the tornadoes of 2024 and what the future holds for this treasured forest and its inhabitants. 

Craft and activity booths will be in the Visitor Center to explore before your hike, so be sure to arrive early and register your family at the check-in booth. Groups of up to 25 will depart approximately every 15 minutes from the Visitor Center for the hour-long hike on the trail. The last hike begins at 2:00. Afterwards, enjoy making s’mores and have some hot chocolate or apple cider at the pavilion. This non-scary event, perfect for ages 4+, is a collaboration with the Northwest Arkansas Master Naturalists.