Valley of the Vapors
Exploring the Mysterious Healing Powers of Hot Springs, Arkansas
Tucked in the middle of a city is a legendary hot spring that has been visited for centuries by both indeginous and modern people alike, all seeking its healing waters.
In the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas lie "The Valley of the Vapors," as coined by Hernando DeSoto in 1541 when he discovered what has since become Hot Springs National Park. Prior to DeSoto’s "discovery," Native Americans from various tribes held the site to be sacred and would gather to bathe in its healing waters. The springs were a place of peace, and no weapon could be raised against another.
The springs produce more than 800,000 gallons of water a day at an average temperature of 143 degrees. The water that flows from the springs today took over 4,000 years to filter down through the sedimentary layers. The heating of the water is caused not by magma or geothermal activity, but by intense pressure as the water is forced back to the surface through small fissures.
The mineral waters of the springs have a reputation for healing illnesses and afflictions for those who drink it or bathe in the waters. People from all walks of life journeyed to the legendary springs seeking a cure for their ailments. Metaphysical circles believe that the veins of quartz running through and beneath the springs lend their healing energies to the waters.
Legends of the Waters
Legend tells of an Indian Chief who came to the springs in search of healing, but after finding no relief for his ailments, he became so wracked with pain and fever that he could not sleep. His daughter took him by the hand and led him through the valley of Gulpha Gorge, which lies just over the mountain, in seach of locally rumored "magic waters."
They proceeded along a stream that led to a cool pool of water fed by five springs. The daughter filled a gourd with water from the pool and gave it to her father. He drank and fell into a restful sleep. Upon awakening, his illness was gone. In thanks, he named the springs "Chewauckla," meaning "Sleepy Waters."
Nearby Oddities
Located approximately three miles from the hot springs is another geographic anomaly called Hell’s Half Acre. It is a two-acre plot completely barren of vegetation, and it has geologists puzzled. Native Americans believed it to have been created by the Great Spirit placing his thumbprint upon the earth, while others believe it to be cursed.
Hell's Half Acre is also host to a "bottomless pit" that is said to house the devil. Locals avoid it and claim that eerie sounds can be heard emanating from the depths. According to several reputable sources, it as also believed to be a major energy vortex.
Finally, just 12 miles east of the Hot Springs lies the very magnetic "Magnet Cove," one of only three places in the world to have more than 60 different minerals located in a one mile square radius. It’s safe to say that Hot Springs is a hotbed of mystical wonders.
