These 10 best scenic drives in Arkansas, USA, can be a great way to explore the diverse and treasured corners of the state. A road adventure offers limitless opportunities in terms of exploring your desired destination, and Arkansas is one such incredible place where even the shortest drive is a treat. Wonderful way to travel to Branson, MO from Texas! Preview trail Scenic driving Forest Paved Views Wildflowers Wildlife Description There isnt much traffic and there are several overlooks with ample parking. A quaint small town square boasting several antique shops awaits visitors at Jasper. Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price. . We left little rock to go up Scenic 7 on our way to eat at The Cliff House and then to go to the Mystic caverns in Harrison. Crossing the Fourche La Fave River, you exit the Ouachita National Forest. Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs NP area are listed below. . In Paris, head south on AR-309 for the park. $66.67. Taking you along AR-5 and AR-201, Two Mountain Way follows the White River, known for its bountiful trout fishing. You'll find an outcrop of Arkansas Novaculite at the top as well; this rock was used by the Caddo Indians for making tools and weapons and later by European settlers for whetstones. Scenic Byway (it intersects in Ola) and the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway (at Spend One Perfect Day in the Grand Canyon: Itinerary & Travel Tips. Wax museums are fascinating places to learn about the lives of famous, infamous and extraordinary people from all over the world. Choose from a wide variety of day-use areas and overnight accommodations. View Artist-In-Residence artwork at the Ozark Bathhouse. Scenic Day Trips War Eagle Mill-- From Eureka Springs take Highway 23 South to Highway 12 and follow it to War Eagle Mill. If you want to soak in naturally heated springs, check out Hot Springs National Park. Take advantage of the many pull outs. Our free Road Trip Planner will reverse the route and include the places of interests. The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of . Wildlife observers and photographers will love the 8-mile Auto Tour which weaves through the refuge offering the chance to spot beavers, bobcats, coyotes, deer as well. Continue to Mobile Site There are several scenic lookouts along the drives as well as some picnic areas. Download map or text a link to your phone, Jessieville Visitor Information and Ranger Station (I2), Alum Cove Natural Bridge Recreation Area (H10). Access to the river is right there, by foot. At Hot Springs, the byway journeys through the historic downtown and immediately in front of the famed Bathhouse Row of Hot Springs National Park. If you opt for Mount Magazine Scenic Byway, there are some very fascinating spots that you will see along the road like a miniature of Paris Eiffel Tower. Your first stop is South Arkansas Arboretum, a wonderfully maintained botanical garden. resort town is known for its thermal waters from which it gets its name, and At just 22 miles, this loop is the perfect round-trip drive for a quick excursion into Arkansass wilderness. The cities or towns listed have either Food or Services such as gas, pharmacies, etc. What is nearest place to stay near this scenic byway starting point? Nothing can beat the thrill of a road journey! Plan to take this trip in about two months for jaw-dropping foliage colors and cooler temps to enjoy. Altogether, it took about 7 hours. Print/PDF map. 1 h 10 mi. UP and UP you go, lots of curves, and the scenery is wonderful.. We recently took 2 full days to drive up Scenic Byway 7, in central Arkansas. Pig Trail Scenic Byway - a U.S. Forest Service-selected drive with a name as colorful as the scenery. Crowleys Ridge is one of Arkansass six natural geographic distinctions, positioned above the Mississippi Alluvial Plain, commonly referred to as the delta, and is characterized by the juxtaposition of lush hardwood forests and agricultural land. Become an Agent. Starting in Havana, Arkansas, this scenic byway takes you up through Mount Magazine State Park, and then down through the charming town of Paris, Arkansas. Searchable list of Hot Springs tour companies, guides and outfitters, rental companies and more. To experience the hot springs in a traditional sense, head to Buckstaff Bathhouse to soak and steam away stress and stiff muscles. 216 feet above Hot Springs Mountain and 1,256 feet above Sea level is the breathtaking panoramic view of the park and its surrounding countryside. At Hot Springs, the byway journeys through the historic downtown and Two Mountain Way runs along White River, an extremely popular point for trout fishing. Built as a carriage road in the 1880s, it has switchbacks that will take you to the top to a picnic area, the Pagoda overlook, and the Hot Springs Mountain Tower. The top of the tower has tons of information about the town and its history as well as an even grander view than the overlook. in Library Science. 16 and 23 are a perfect choice for you. Photos (675) Directions. broaden a bit, and the scenery is top-tier. the 1914 Boone County Jail, and the completely restored 1929 Hotel Seville. brick storefronts that line the Harrison square, which with a few adjacent Arguably The scenic drive is described as beginning in the town of Hot Springs and traveling to Harrison, but it could be done in either direction. What is "must-see" or "must-do" in Arkansas? It can be hiked, biked, or auto-toured at proper times for a small fee. The road winds through the mountains, and there are cute gift shops and a couple of restaurants along the way. Not that adventurous? Caddo Gap is about 15 miles from Mount Ida, Arkansas, and is near the Caddo River, a popular destination for water sport enthusiasts. Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." A little farther north, hanging baskets of flowers and awnings accentuate old brick storefronts that line the Harrison square, which with a few adjacent buildings, make up its national historic district. Especially if you can take perfect photos to commemorate the tour! the valley, Scenic 7 ascends into the Ozark Mountains, famous for fall foliage, Arkansas Tourism Arkansas Hotels Arkansas Guest House Arkansas Holiday Homes Arkansas Holiday . By the way, Arkansas website is very good with maps and detailed info. Scenic 7 Byway is a nationally recognized riding treasure that traverses almost This is the only unchanged part of the Trail of Tears. Has anyone stayed at the Harmony Mountain Retreat in Jasper? Petit Jean State Park is one of the most attractive and most convenient options since it's only an hour outside of Little Rock. You'll also find an outcrop of Arkansas Novaculite at the top which was used by the Caddo Indians for making tools and weapons and later by European settlers for whetstones. The museum is free and kid-friendly with hands-on exhibits. Click here to view all the guides avialable for Arkansas. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. If you finish driving the loop and are left longing for more, you can pitch a tent or rent a rustic cabin at the Lake Chicot State Park to take advantage of all this park has to offer. Scenic Mountain Drives & Overlooks Non-hikers can drive to the top of Hot Springs and West Mountain summits. Drive slowly and have your binoculars on hand. Scenic 7 can be connected to two other Arkansas scenic byways: the West-Northwest Scenic Byway (it intersects in Ola) and the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway (at Jasper take Arkansas State Highway 74 to Ponca, then 43 to the top of the route). Leave nothing but tire tracks and take nothing but pictures except maybe some quartz. Roll down your windows to appreciate the refreshing views while passing through Ouachita National Forest and Ozark National Forest. Drive Scenic Byway 7 in Arkansas, the state's first state-designated scenic byway, and travel through four of the state's varied geographical regions. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Museum and Mystic Caverns. Frequently asked questions about scenic driving trails in Arkansas. One of the things I miss most about living in the Natural State is being able to round up some friends, grab my trusty mutt, hop in the car, and just go for a classic Arkansas scenic drive. Try this 69.6-mile point-to-point trail near Dardanelle, Arkansas. Discover a wondrous world of tumbled moss-covered rock formations, bluffs, a natural bridge, caverns, Cobb Cave, and numerous waterfalls, nestled in lush green forest. Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum. #2 - Pea Ridge National Military Battlefield Loop. Arkansas My husband and I are (both in early 60's) are planning a road trip from Northern MN to northwest Arkansas, in mid-April, after the chance of snow plowing has passed. Stop and enjoy the picture perfect view. Enjoy the drive. 3. From here, you can hop onto U.S. 270 and travel up to U.S. 71. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through rolling terrain with dense pine forests and stream valleys with bottomland hardwood forests. Quaff the elixir at the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. more, Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Little Rock by Crazy Dash, Little Rock Scavenger Hunt: Big Fun In Little Rock, Little Rock City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks, Participate in a Fun Scavenger Hunt in Little Rock by Zombie Scavengers, Little Rock City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest, Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Little Rock by 3Quest Challenge, Celebrate with a Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Little Rock with Holly Jolly Hunt. Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). We (and several other cars) went across the bridge and turned around. along the Buffalo National River on its way to Harrison. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? Or you can continue on the scenic drive in Oklahoma. this was an amazing scenic drive! I have seen pictures and they provide color much more abundantly than I ever imagined they would. A number of trails, bike rentals, lakes, campsites and cabins make this a great stop. Traveling north, the road becomes twisty and steep, revealing magnificent views with every turn. The Boston Mountains Scenic Loop is formed by two state scenic byways U.S. 71 and Interstate 49. Hot Springs, Arkansas - Scenic Drives Byways, Backways, Historic Routes,. On the way back, stop at the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge (A2) which protects 7,000 acres of bottomland hardwoods and wetlands. An Arkansas classic and a personal favorite of mine is the Pig Trail Scenic Byway, a 19-mile stretch of forested road that takes you through the Boston Mountains region of the Ozark Mountains. Most of this trek lies within the Ouachita National Forest, the oldest and largest National Forest in the South, and takes its travelers through Arkansass Ouachita Mountains. U.S. 71 and Interstate 49 are two of my familys favorite drives for taking in the Ozarks fall foliage, and could be your familys new annual tradition too! There are multiple overlooks to stop at and take in the view. Mystic Caverns (A3) is a geologic wonder featuring incredible rock formations, stalactites and the 28-foot pipe organ. Camping and RV hookups are available. Many hikes of varying levels allow the opportunity to explore the incredible and unique geology. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 31 h 6 min to complete. While on this 45-mile scenic byway (72 kilometers), you will pass through Mount Magazine State Park as well as the serene Ozark National Forest. This is a very popular area for scenic driving, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Beautiful views with vistas and rest stops to take pictures from. Additionally, the Zigzag Mountains is the area known as the recharge zone for the thermal springs. This overlook is located on top of North Mountain overlooking the Zigzag Mountains with a view of Indian Mountain to the right, also know as Silver Mountain. We are coming to see fall color from Dallas. There is an abundance of wildlife to see throughout the year, but during the winter months, you can see a lovely variety of migratory birds, river otters, and more. mountain ranges along with the Arkansas River Valley before running through the The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is Boston Mountains Scenic Loop Byway with 2,760 m of elevation gain. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! The folds of the Ouachitas run east-west, which is uncommon for mountain ranges To reach it, head west on FR-1801 and then northwest on FR-1804. Horn in 1911 and dedicated to superintendent Harry H. Myers. Pack your hiking boots if youre in the mood to hop and explore the abundance of trails along this journey. Jasper take Arkansas State Highway 74 to Ponca, then 43 to the top of the Love Arkansas? Beautiful views await, but note some sections of the trail are cliff-hugging, and you must take caution at the top. However, this is a part of it and I enjoyed my day. In no particular order, and with each route offering a unique landscape, youll want to check out all of these amazing Arkansas scenic byways! Generally considered an easy route. The drive begins at the intersection of hwy 43 and hwy 74, and travels north to the town of Ponca. Go-Arkansas.com, part of The Go Travel Sites family, is among the largest websites covering travel and vacationing in Arkansas. Besides the breathtaking Ozark views, you will also be able to stop off at the Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View for some folksy art, music, and education, go trout fishing in the White River, or embrace the chill up your spine at Calico Rocks ghost town the countrys only ghost town within a towntown-ception. Look but don't touch! Steal this Madeira Itinerary: What the RHOP Did in 4 Days in Madeira, Portugal, The Perfect 3 Days in Jackson, MS: A Magical Weekend in Jackson Itinerary. Are there any height restrictions. This In the 1880s, major league baseball teams began bringing their players to Hot . Start in Arkansass capital city of Little Rock for this trip, and travel 96 miles along the edge of the Ouachita National Forest up to Holla Bend, Arkansas. Leaving Additionally, Hot Springs Mountain Tower can be seen standing tall on top of Hot Springs Mountain along with the Army-Navy Hospital standing tall below. The lush greenery of late spring and the explosion of fall colors in the valley will give you an excuse to take this drive numerous times throughout the year! The drive from Harrison to Jasper winds through the countryside and crosses the Buffalo National River, so you'll have plenty of places to stop for photos or stretch your legs. This lake is also one of the largest flyways in the United States, so be sure to check it out in the fall and winter for diverse bird watching! Primitive camping with no facilities at Richland Creek campsite. Have a favorite flower? Arkansas Tourism Arkansas Hotels Arkansas Bed and Breakfast Arkansas Vacation Rentals Arkansas . If you wish to explore more around this loop, go camping or rent a cottage at Lake Chicot State Park. For a quick trip, hop on the Buffalo Hills Scenic drive, a 19-mile section of Scenic 7 Byway, which will take you from Harrison to Jasper. Tour the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center (I1) where you will not only learn about people who flocked to this area for hundreds of years seeking cures for their illnesses, but take in the extraordinary beauty and design of the bathhouse and its marble and stained glass. Transportation companies, driving directions and more for Hot Springs. THANKS Ron. Ida, an old silver mining town and the quartz capital of the United States! The Natural State has its noted drives: Scenic 7 Byway in the Ozarks, the Talimena National Scenic Byway in the Ouachitas, Crowley's Ridge National Scenic Parkway in the Delta, the Pig Trail in the Ozarks, and the Great River Road National Scenic Byway in the Delta, just to name a few. You can pass by the miniature Eiffel Tower in downtown Paris a close second to the city of lights. Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information. from. Arkansas's largest lake, Lake Ouachita offers 40,000 acres of clear, clean water surrounded by the scenic Ouachita National Forest. (There seems to be SO many beautiful drives!) Condos for sale near me; Hot Springs Property Records; AR New Listings; . The Buffalo River was the first designated National River in 1972. If youre up for a longer hike, try Hunts Loop Trail that begins near the Iron Springs Recreation Area or the Ouachita Trail trailhead. Scenic 7: Among the Most Scenic Drives in AmericaRoute: Although it boasts some of the best views in Arkansas throughout the year, there's something particularly magical about fall. Pine Bluff is a town full of rich history, so hop out of the oljalopy and explore a bit! Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Arkansas. The Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum on Central Avenue in Hot Springs is one of the unique and quirky places that shouldn't be overlooked when in town. Discover this 2.4-mile loop trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Be on the lookout for waterfowl and the characteristic knees of the bald cypress trees along the river. 10 Zip Line Zip Tour (1.5 hours) 536. The Arkansas portion of Crowleys Ridge Parkway is 198 miles of Eastern Arkansas goodness. Is this road suitable for large fifth wheells?We will be coming off of I 40 to go to Branson. We offer a compact version of Go-Arkansas for mobile users, allowing you to access just the information you need on the road. Throughout this journey of 100 miles (16 kilometers), get ready to be mesmerized by panoramic views as well as the diversity of flora and fauna. 2. Beautiful drive and leaves beginning to turn. Not recommended for young children. Both of these byways start near my neck of the woods, in Alma, and run up to Fayetteville. and other retail shops. Prepare to be welcomed by refreshing vistas of oak-hickory forests and limestone cliffs. The first overview affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. You can experience the beauty of Hot Springs National Park by driving to one of our six scenic overlooks. Stop at the Jessieville Visitor Information and Ranger Station (I2) where you can learn about the rich history of the Ouachita National Forest and get information on recreation opportunities, such as mountain biking, horseback riding, off-highway driving, fishing and non-motorized boating. Whether you are looking for a day trip or a weekend excursion, a drive to this part of the United States is going to be one for the books. Drive Scenic Byway 7 in Arkansas, the state's first state-designated scenic byway, and travel through four of the state's varied geographical regions. Actually a collapsed cave, the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks is a wide-valley carved by the Buffalo River. Hope you enjoy the drive. EXPERIENCE the magnificence of this world and this beautiful state. One of the best places to picnic in Hot Springs, this overlook hangs higher up on West Mountain overlooking the city of Hot Springs. Spot the glistening Arkansas River right before reaching the end of the byway in Webb City, Arkansas. There is a fee but many awesome specimens have been found here. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Today, the lake is a haven for water-based recreation, especially fishing for largemouth bass, bream, crappie and catfish. From the park, continue south on AR-309/AR-10 until you join up to AR-27, where driving east leads back to Dardanelle. Arkansas Highway 123 Google Maps This route starts at the intersection of Arkansas Highway 7 and Highway 123 which is about 40 miles north of Russellville, AR in a town called Lurton, AR. Check out my Balkan Travel Blog + Oklahoma Travel Blog, 17 Magical Things to Do in Arkansas in Winter, 50 Awesome Las Vegas Quotes & Las Vegas Instagram Caption Inspiration, How to Visit Granja Colonia Pencil Museum in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay. You must drive slower due to all the curves. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. lodging, boat rentals, bait, tackle, snacks and more. There's also a picnic area nearby if you want to sit and stay for a while. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. In case you get hungry while on the road, drop by The Ohio Club and try out their scrumptious burgers and sandwiches. While here, you can also check out Calico Rock Museum and Visitor Centre or Printing Press Caf. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. 101 Reserve Street All Rights Reserved and. Full information on Hot Springs Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives and other easy vacation activities. Enjoy your trip! This shelter was built in 1924 making it one of the oldest mountain shelters still in use today at Hot Springs National Park. Built as a carriage road in the 1880s, it has switchbacks that will take you to the top to a picnic area, the Pagoda overlook, and the Hot Springs Mountain Tower. 71901, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Or use the observation tower and foot trails. Please be forewarned that you will have the occasional person who's going 15 miles an hour under the speed limit. A leisurely drive awaits you on this scenic excursion of about 96 miles (154 kilometers) that starts from the states capital called Little Rock to Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge. We live in east Texas, between Dallas and Texarkana on Int.,30, Is the Arkansas Grand Canyon nearby and is there a cost to drive through the area. Another absolute must-visit point is Mt. Spend the Perfect 2 Days in Basel: Itinerary for 48 Hours in Basel + Weekend Tips! the Ozarks." You can get some excellent shots of the river/waterfall thru the steel crossbeams of the bridge, and it provides a nice juxtaposition. Copyright 1997 - 2023 The Go Travel Sites. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. Don't miss hiking Lost Valley Trail. My car sits idle and the most wildlife I get to see on any given day is the abundance of pigeons in Central Park. We stopped three times: at the Rotary Ann overlook (a nice rest stop), at the Pedestal Rocks hike (added about 2 hours to the trip) and for a late lunch at the Cliff House (come hungry; their meals are huge!). You can send yourself an email as well. Restaurant offers a great meal and amazing vistas of the "Grand Canyon of with five lakes in the region, its also a popular destination for fishing, The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. The scenic drive is described as beginning in the town of Hot Springs and traveling to Harrison, but it could be done in either direction.