“Take A Hike” is a weekly series that examines diversity in the outdoors. In each installment, we’ll highlight one of the Natural State’s 52 state parks and talk to BIPOC Arkansans about what they enjoy about spending time in nature.
"The outdoors brings me a calm that no other environment provides."
Name: Shani Millar-Vaughn
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Currently Lives In: Fayetteville, Arkansas
Occupation: Closing agent
Favorite Outdoor Space: Buffalo River area
What’s one outdoor place you want to explore, but haven’t yet?
Arkansas Grand Canyon
What do you enjoy about the outdoors?
The outdoors brings me a calm that no other environment provides.
Do you prefer spending time outdoors alone or with friends? Why?
There’s a time and place for both, it depends on what I’m looking for outdoors. I enjoy the intimacy that being outdoors with friends can provide, but being alone outdoors provides a different peace of mind.
What’s your favorite outdoor activity?
I’ve recently taken up trail running while training for the Frozen Toes 15K and I’d like to continue doing that throughout Spring.
ABOUT THE PARK
Just west of Little Rock, Pinnacle Mountain stands as the centerpiece of this geographically diverse Pinnacle Mountain State Park, according to Arkansas State Parks. This day-use park offers a variety of outdoor adventure on the Big and Little Maumelle Rivers, in the Arkansas Arboretum and along more than 15 miles of trails including 7 miles of challenging mountain bike trails. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain, explore the rivers or take in one of the many interpretive programs offered by park staff. Guests can also visit the park visitor center, enjoy a picnic or reserve a pavilion.