Is Tanyard Creek leashed or off-leash?

It is an on-leash nature trail, so keep dogs leashed throughout the route.

How difficult is the trail?

Paved sections suit any age and mobility, while dirt branches add mild elevation. The short incline up to the waterfall off the dam is the main climb.

When do the waterfalls run best?

They run hardest in the day or two after rain, so time a visit accordingly for the fullest flow.

Does it stay cool in summer?

The creek-bottom canopy keeps temperatures down even on 90-degree days, well below the open trails nearby.

Is parking a problem on weekends?

The trailhead lot fills fast on weekends. Arrive early or use the overflow spots. A coffee trailer at the trailhead is a bonus.

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Tanyard Creek Nature Trail

Paved-and-dirt creek loop with multiple waterfalls and a cool canopy

4.8 · 2897 reviews

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Shade Parking Restrooms

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About this park

A heavily trafficked on-leash nature trail in Bella Vista with paved sections suitable for any age, dirt branches with mild elevation, and several waterfalls along the route. The creek bottom stays cool even on 90-degree days. With nearly 3,000 reviews and consistent five-star marks, it's the area's default scenic walk.

Amenities

Shade Parking Restrooms Benches

Tanyard Creek Nature Trail reviews

What visitors consistently say

The highlights

Reviewers consistently praise the canopy that keeps temperatures down, the waterfall payoff at the dam, and the trail being well-marked enough for first-time visitors with kids and dogs.

The community

Steady weekend traffic of families, hikers, and dog walkers. A small coffee trailer at the trailhead has become a regular fixture.

Best for

Senior dogs Reactive dogs

Before you go

Waterfalls run hardest in the day or two after rain, so time the visit accordingly. The trailhead lot fills on weekends; arrive early or use the overflow spots.

Frequently asked

Is Tanyard Creek leashed or off-leash?: It is an on-leash nature trail, so keep dogs leashed throughout the route.
How difficult is the trail?: Paved sections suit any age and mobility, while dirt branches add mild elevation. The short incline up to the waterfall off the dam is the main climb.
When do the waterfalls run best?: They run hardest in the day or two after rain, so time a visit accordingly for the fullest flow.
Does it stay cool in summer?: The creek-bottom canopy keeps temperatures down even on 90-degree days, well below the open trails nearby.
Is parking a problem on weekends?: The trailhead lot fills fast on weekends. Arrive early or use the overflow spots. A coffee trailer at the trailhead is a bonus.