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Bona Dea Trails & Sanctuary: Russellville's Natural Haven

Discover scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and outdoor fitness at Bona Dea Trails & Sanctuary, a natural escape in Russellville, Arkansas.

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Escape into nature at Bona Dea Trails & Sanctuary, a 186-acre wildlife refuge in Russellville, Arkansas. Explore scenic trails, observe diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy a peaceful retreat with recreational opportunities for all fitness levels.

A brief summary to Bona Dea Trails & Sanctuary

  • Monday 6 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-8 pm
  • Friday 6 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for optimal bird watching; the sanctuary is home to a wide variety of bird species.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking or jogging on mostly hard-surfaced trails.
  • Visit during the fall to witness the vibrant foliage.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and wildlife, such as snakes and alligators.
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Getting There

  • Car

    To reach Bona Dea Trails & Sanctuary by car, navigate to Scenic 7 Byway, Russellville, AR 72801. From I-40, take Exit 81 to merge onto AR-7 S. Continue on AR-7 S for approximately 10 miles. Look for parking areas along Scenic 7 Byway. Ample parking is available.

  • Public Transportation

    Public transportation to Bona Dea Trails & Sanctuary is limited. The nearest Greyhound bus station is in Russellville. From there, utilize a taxi service or rideshare app (such as Uber or Lyft) to reach the Sanctuary. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for the taxi or rideshare service.

  • Biking

    Bona Dea Trails & Sanctuary is accessible via bicycle using local trails that lead towards Scenic 7 Byway. Utilize a map or GPS device as some trails may not be well-marked. Be cautious of traffic on Scenic 7 Byway and wear a helmet.

Unlock the Best of Bona Dea Trails & Sanctuary

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Discover more about Bona Dea Trails & Sanctuary

Bona Dea Trails & Sanctuary, whose name translates from Latin to “Good Goddess,” is a unique nature preserve located near Lake Dardanelle, just inside the northern city limits of Russellville. This 186-acre area of wetlands and low woods provides an ideal habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. The sanctuary features nearly six miles of trails that wind throughout the area, offering a multitude of recreational opportunities such as walking, jogging, nature photography, bird watching, and nature study. The trails are broken down into sections, including Rabbit Run (1 mile), Prairie Creek (1.5 miles), Walden Way (2.6 miles), and Serendipity Trail (3.5 miles). The eastern entrance is ADA accessible and offers public restroom facilities with ample parking. Bona Dea also features a parcourse, which is a complete, do-it-yourself fitness program with 18 exercise stations spread throughout the trail system. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including alligators. The diverse landscapes include wooded areas, open meadows, small ponds, and streams.

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