It’s the eternal summertime struggle: You want to get out and enjoy the sunshine, but you also don’t want to roast to death. To help make that balance a reality, Pinnacle Mountain State Park is once again hosting a slew of dusk and nighttime events, and even one for the early birds.
So put away the sun block and grab your calendar. It’s time to make some plans.
Sunrise at the Summit
Dates: May 28, July 4
Admission: Free
What better way to spend your holidays than watching the sun come up over the land of the free and the home of the brave? Meet at the West Summit trailhead and BYO star-spangled garb.
Sunset Canoe Float
Date: June 10, July 7
Admission: $40 per canoe
Why choose between day and night when you can get the best of both worlds? These guided floats launch from the Big Maumelle Boat Ramp and offer stellar twilight views as you make your way down the Big Maumelle River.
Star Party
Dates: June 16, Aug. 18, Sept. 15
Admission: Free
With telescopes provided by the Central Arkansas Astronomical Society, you get to try your hand as an amateur astronomer at the Pinnacle visitor center. No lab coats required.
Sunset Lake Cruise
Dates: June 17, July 15
Admission: $15 adults, $8 children ages 6-12
If you’re interested in a more colorful view, join in a cruise on Lake Maumelle near the base of Pinnacle Mountain. And yes, one is slated for Father’s Day, and it’s so much better than another tie rack.
Sunset at the Summit
Date: June 23
Admission: Free
Want to go at your own pace? Opt for a family sunset hike up Pinnacle Mountain’s West Summit Trail instead. Just make sure you bring flashlights for the trek back down.
Stargazing Cruise
Dates: June 24, July 1 and 28
Admission: $15 adults, $8 children ages 6-12
As you set out on this guided tour from the Jolly Rogers Marina on Lake Maumelle, you’ll learn about stars, constellations, satellites and the debt we owe the folks who invented bug spray. Bonus: Meteor Shower Mania Cruises on Aug. 11-13 to view the annual Perseid meteor shower.
Learn more about Pinnacle Mountain State Park and the events they have lined up all year round on the Arkansas State Parks website.