This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. and other retail shops. The Talimena National Scenic Byway is a total of 54 miles, but if you want to keep it in-state youll still have 18 miles from the Arkansas-Oklahoma state line to Mena, Arkansas. The drive begins at Fountain Street, just off of Central Avenue. Voyage down the 45-mile Mount Magazine Scenic Byway for breathtaking views from Arkansass highest point. Downtown Harrison also embraces restaurants, an art gallery, antique stores, Indulge in the refreshing flavors of locally-grown fruit and vegetables at the many roadside stands. If Winter is not mentioned, the road may be closed during the winter. Scenic Drives near Fort Smith, Arkansas Eureka Springs. You can continue on to North Mountain Loop and then back down to Fountain Street. Stop for a bite to eat at the Ozark Caf in town, or continue south to view the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks. 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. 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. Fifteen miles of Interstate 530 has been designated as a scenic byway, and its no surprise as to why! 1 h 10 mi. From here, turn left to observe Nimrod Dam and Lake (W1). With 26 miles of hiking trails in the Park, you can find great views, beautiful forest scenery, and feel like you're not in the City. Choose either an alternate ending or same as start. As you approach the town of Centerville, consider a side-trip to the Petit Jean State Park (H4) by following the AR-154 east for 16 miles. in Library Science. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. 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. The 4.25-mile moderate trail passes fascinating geologic features on its way up Short Mountain, culminating with panoramic views of the forest. 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. Then pack your snacks for the road and buckle up for the 261-mile West-Northwest Scenic Byway! 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. Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). At the summit of West Mountain is an overlook south to the Trap Mountains with Lake Hamilton visible far in the distance. The breezy tour up the mountain is one that perfectly snapshots the beauty of Hot Springs, all without taking more than an hour. We stopped at 3 national forests; one national recreation area; one state park; there are many other state parks along the way. 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. Top 10 Scenic Drives in Arkansas | YourMechanic Advice You see all sorts of environments: farm, field, forest, mountain, meadow, river/stream/pond/lake. Head out on this 4.7-mile point-to-point trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. You may also grab a meal at the states oldest restaurant, White House Caf. 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. On the way, stop at the Riverview Recreation Area (H6) for views of the Arkansas River and Lake Dardanelle Dam, as well as more recreational opportunities. It's a beautiful scenic drive. It has a two-way road that leads to the Summit Loop where you will find three overlooks. Make sure you stop and go to the scenic overlooks on Mount Nebo, you'll be happy you did. You cross an old, green, iron bridge, over the Buffalo River. The boyhood town of President Bill Clinton, Hot Springs features splendid Victorian architecture, and a downtown lined with historic buildings. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. Looking out from the pagoda is the city of Hot Springs with the Ouachita Mountains out in the distance. Things To Do - Hot Springs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) The Arkansas Tourist Information Center (I4) has information on visiting there. Generally considered an easy route. As you continue, the forest changes to pasture and farmland. Photos (675) Directions. With the lush forest forming tunnels overhead, and the Mulberry River rushing by, you may even forget that you are in your car! It's a place where swapping stories over cups of coffee is as important to the locals as getting a good plate of inexpensive food. The park offers full amenities such as boat rentals, cabins and camping. We are 40 ft long and 13.5 high. Start out by spelunking the Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, then snake through the eastern portion of the Ozark National Forest. immediately in front of the famed Bathhouse Row of Hot Springs National Park. Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the Mystic Caverns (A3) is a geologic wonder featuring incredible rock formations, stalactites and the 28-foot pipe organ. Is this road suitable for large fifth wheells?We will be coming off of I 40 to go to Branson. Scenic 7 Byway South: Russellville to Hot Springs legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. ARKANSAS SIGHTSEEING: Check out Hot Springs beyond the obvious Highway 7 travels Arkansass rolling hills, curves through the Ouachita National Forest, Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, Hot Springs National Park, and the first national river, Buffalo National River. View the mountains and then bring it on home this scenic drive takes you from Mountain View, Arkansas to Mountain Home, Arkansas, and is 48 miles of not-to-be-missed sightseeing in between! Arkansas Tourism Arkansas Hotels Arkansas Guest House Arkansas Holiday Homes Arkansas Holiday . 101 Reserve Street In case you get hungry while on the road, drop by The Ohio Club and try out their scrumptious burgers and sandwiches. 3. So fasten your seat belts and explore the best scenic drives in Arkansas, USA. 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. Keyword. This drive takes longer than the interstate obviously, but it is so well worth it. We drove from Harrison to Hot Springs on the road. Address: AR-170 Scenic, West Fork, AR 72774, USA Address: US-71, Alma, AR, USA Address: Buffalo National River, Calf Creek Township, AR 72675, USA Address: Stone County, AR, USA Address: US-62, Eureka Springs, AR, USA Accessible adventure: There are several scenic drives in and near the park, the most popular being the Hot Springs Mountain Drive that leads to the 216-foot lookout tower atop Hot Springs Mountain. Actually a collapsed cave, the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks is a wide-valley carved by the Buffalo River. What is the most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas? Once on top of the ridgeline, the curves No matter what route you take, youll be sure to encounter some truly unforgettable views. Great area to enjoy. It might be big city with an expansive clutch of cultural and historic sites but temperate Little Rock is small-town friendly with easy access to the big outdoors. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs to take in the Ouachita Mtns. Scenic 7 | Explore Arkansas - myscenicdrives.com The Springtime Jonquil Festival In Arkansas Thats Unlike Any Other, Spend A Magical Evening Savoring This Wine And Fondue Experience In Arkansas, Arkansas Oldest Drive-In Theater Is Hiding In A Small Town And Youll Want To Visit, Dine At The Historic Spot In Arkansas Where The Legendary Gangster Al Capone Drank Whiskey, This Amazing Mimosa Brunch Spot In Arkansas Will Make Your Morning Epic, Escape To This Hidden Oasis In Arkansas To Find Peace And Quiet, This Candy Store in Arkansas Was Ripped Straight From The Pages Of A Fairytale, Every Spring, Thousands Flock To This Arkansas Town For The World Championship Toad Races. The trail also passes many turtle rocks that look like turtle shells and below the cave is another trail that leads to an overlook of Cedar Falls. As the name suggests, Two Mountain Way takes you on a spectacular journey of 48 miles (77 kilometers) from Mountain View to Mountain Home in Arkansas. 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. Access to the river is right there, by foot. Hot Springs National Park is home to 2 scenic driving trails with an average 4.3 star rating from 266 community reviews. and travel through four of the state's varied geographical regions. The thermal water we have today originated as rain water that fell over 4,000 years ago, soaking into these mountains and funneling back up at high speeds and hot temperatures. Taking you along AR-5 and AR-201, Two Mountain Way follows the White River, known for its bountiful trout fishing. Structures blend in with the environment such as Mather Lodge, Water Tower and Davies Bridge. Youll also pass through Marble Falls, Arkansas (the town formerly known as Dogpatch), and can see the glorious Marble Falls waterfall. The highways and byways of the state are great for scenic driving and you may enjoy the best road trips in Arkansas. Scenic Drives, points of interest, in northwest Arkansas - Arkansas Keyword Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours Reset Show on Map With 40 sites right by Gulpha Creek, the Gulpha Gorge Campground is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Park. Other attractions also include Ouachita National Recreation Trail, Pinnacle Mountain State Park, and backwater areas. THANKS Ron. Additionally, the Zigzag Mountains is the area known as the recharge zone for the thermal springs. The Road Less Traveled: Arkansas Fall Foliage Scenic Drives During the fall, this is one of my familys favorite routes for getting out and into the mountains. Other attractive stops here include the underground caves at Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, Calico Rock, and Norfork Lake. We offer a compact version of Go-Arkansas for mobile users, allowing you to access just the information you need on the road. To request a listing, please fill out the form below and press "Submit.". Bream, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and largemouth bass can be caught in open waters or quiet coves. Fun drive! Explore the most popular scenic driving trails in Arkansas with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Just Lake Chicot is also the largest flight path for several migratory birds so planning a drive during winter or fall can be great for birdwatching. 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. more, Reply to: Scenic Drives, points of interest, in northwest Arkansas, Scenic Drives, points of interest, in northwest Arkansas, Get answers to your questions about Arkansas, Hills or Mountains? with five lakes in the region, its also a popular destination for fishing, Take advantage of the many pull outs. Scenic Drives near Hot Springs, Arkansas Starting at the St. Francis River near the Missouri border and winding all the way to Helena, Arkansas, Crowleys Ridge Parkway is the perfect way to see Crowleys Ridge and Arkansas delta regions! Searchable list of Hot Springs tour companies, guides and outfitters, rental companies and more. south of Harrison, it becomes a tightly wound and challenging road, but still 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. All Arkansas Novaculite is found within a 50-mile radius of Hot Springs, drawing Native Americans from all over to this location. Shelter houses like the one found here were built to provide visitors with a place to relax and enjoy the view. We enjoyed driving the Scenic 7 Byway. Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street off Central Avenue downtown. Beautiful views with vistas and rest stops to take pictures from. Pack your hiking boots if youre in the mood to hop and explore the abundance of trails along this journey. To the west of the town is a field of wild tallgrass prairie, much like the midwest. The remains of a quartz sandstone cave, the arch can be reached by a short trail, passing rare flowers, including the Frenchs shooting star. Did you drive it and how was it. THE 5 BEST Arkansas Scenic Drives (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours. along the Buffalo National River on its way to Harrison. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. awaits visitors at Jasper. 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. Was meant to be a bike trip but am now worried about the weather. From here, you can hop onto U.S. 270 and travel up to U.S. 71. Starting and ending in Lake Village, Arkansas, Lake Chicot Loop circumnavigates part of Lake Chicot, the largest natural lake in the state. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The seasons listed are the best seasons for this scenic drive. Want a hair-raising experience? Hot Springs can be reached by heading south on I-30 from Little Rock and taking exit 111 for US-70 and following the signs for US-70 Business Route to Hot Springs. 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. Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive | Map, Guide - Arkansas | AllTrails The garden contains nearly three miles of trails traversing a diverse mix of botanical landscapes. In no particular order, and with each route offering a unique landscape, youll want to check out all of these amazing Arkansas scenic byways! This valley features rich farmland with patches of woodlands. Camping and RV hookups are available. Plan to take this trip in about two months for jaw-dropping foliage colors and cooler temps to enjoy. Buckle up and explore north-central Arkansas through Sylamore Scenic Byway. In addition, the town has the Boone County Heritage Read the sites full Privacy & Disclosure policy here. History Fangirl is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Very curvy, very steep sides, lots of areas with no shoulders. Besides the 3 Scenic Byways, #'s 21, 23, and 309 we're planning on driving does anyone have recommendations for other drives? Scenic 7: Among the Most Scenic Drives in AmericaRoute: The website features a bloom calendar. Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information. From wildlife watching to the extreme adventure, Mount Magazine is the only place in Arkansas which features rock climbing, rappelling and hang gliding. this was an amazing scenic drive! Named one of the cleanest lakes in America, Lake Ouachita is the perfect location for swimming, water skiing, scuba diving and fishing. little farther north, hanging baskets of flowers and awnings accentuate old Hot Springs Is the 7 from Russellville to Hot Springs very scenic? It is a 26.5-mile stretch (47.7 kilometers) that usually begins at the countrys only ghost town Calico Rock all the way to Blanchard Springs Caverns. You can go to the picnic area on the west side of the road or the launch area on the east side. In Paris, head south on AR-309 for the park. Explore art galleries, antique shops, dining and nightlife. Once you reach the end of the road, check out the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge, right off the Arkansas River. A What is nearest place to stay near this scenic byway starting point? Arguably The Scenic 7 Byway is a wonderful drive, offering travelers the opportunity to see Arkansass diverse landscape! See if you can catch a glimpse of one of Arkansass secretive black bears, or if youre driving the byway after dark, listen closely to see if you can hear the howl of the coyotes. After passing the impressive Boston Mountains, you cross the Buffalo National River framed again by massive limestone bluffs. #9 - Scenic 7 Byway: Harrison to Russellville. manageable by beginners. Cruise the Ouachita Mountains by way of this Scenic Byway! This scenic drive may be short but its one that every Hot Springs visitor should take! Or you can continue on the scenic drive in Oklahoma. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. The most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas is, Pea Ridge National Military Battlefield Loop. The cities or towns listed have either Food or Services such as gas, pharmacies, etc. Where to stay by the Crater od Diamonds State Park. Standard text messaging rates apply. A 2-mile round trip, this hike is a little more strenuous but well worth the effort. A birders paradise, over 100 species make their home here. Starting Location: Hot Springs, AR Ending Location: Harrison, AR Length: 157 miles Best Season to Drive: All See this drive on Google Maps Winding through the mountains with forests full of pines and hardwoods, Scenic 7 affords unparalleled views of the Natural State. 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. we are heading that way soon. Lets head up the mountain to see the grand view. The full address for this home is 1322 Lakeshore Drive Apartment 113 ac +/-, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913. Scenic 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. To visit, from AR-16, turn right onto the gravel Forest Road 28 for 3 miles. Get a closer look via the 119 steps that bring you down 70 feet just make sure you have the energy to climb back up. The Arkansas portion of Crowleys Ridge Parkway is 198 miles of Eastern Arkansas goodness. Hot Springs weather report, historic temperatures and climate info,. 10 Best Scenic Drives In Arkansas, USA | Trip101 broaden a bit, and the scenery is top-tier. 3.0 average from 1 vote. Searchable listings of Hot Springs hotels, motels, resorts, bed & breakfast, and more. One of the best places to picnic in Hot Springs, this overlook hangs higher up on West Mountain overlooking the city of Hot Springs. AR-7 heads over the Little Buffalo River, traveling by limestone and sandstone walls. Head up Zig Zag Mountain to the Hot Springs Mountain Overlook, enjoying hairpin curves before being rewarded with unforgettable views from the Hot Springs Mountain tower. Look but don't touch! Good decisio and good time of year, Nov. the traffic was light and some attractions are out of season but overall it is a warm year so it was lovely. Much like the Crowleys Ridge Parkway, the Great River Road transverses the Crowleys Ridge geographical region of the state, as well as parts of the St. Francis National Forest. Discover this 2.4-mile loop trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Pit toilet and picknic tables, fire rings. 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. Scenic 7 Byway South: Russellville to Hot Springs. Heading north on AR-7 from Centerville, hills of soybean and grain create a quilt of color far into the distance. 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. #2 - Pea Ridge National Military Battlefield Loop. From the overlook, look 130-feet down the sheer rock walls and take in the views of the surrounding forest and Boston Mountains. The unique habitats create homes for rare and endangered plants like Ozark Chinkapin and the Maple-leaf Oak tree and animals such as the middle-toothed snail. Although it boasts some of the best views in Arkansas throughout the year, there's something particularly magical about fall. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. You can get a map of these at the Visitor Center. We had the time and decided to do the entire byway from Eueka Springs to El Dorado. Get . The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of the coolest sights in the state. 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. Resorts and marinas are located on the lakes for Approaching historic Dardanelle, head west on AR-27 to Mount Nebo State Park (H3), where a drive to the top of Mount Nebo affords dramatic views of the Arkansas River and the Ozark National Forest. Caddo Gap is about 15 miles from Mount Ida, Arkansas, and is near the Caddo River, a popular destination for water sport enthusiasts. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. The varied colors of the foliage look simply magical. See our full. The first overview affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. Encompassing more than 1 million acres, it is made up of two separate forests, the Ozark National Forest and the smaller St. Francis National Forest, each with distinct topography, geology and wildlife. Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud. There are several scenic pull outs to stop and look at. Hot Springs Hop Scavenger Hunt. It was a lovely, relaxing drive. isnt very wide, for soon you will climb into the foothills of the Ouachitas. I would say October is the best time to tour Arkansas on your trusted two wheeled steed. Near Arkadelphia, the route enters the Ouachita Mountains, famous for their quartz crystals, and passes by DeGray Lake, home of Arkansas's only resort state park. one of the most scenic drives in America, the route begins on the south end These 10 best scenic drives in Arkansas, USA, can be a great way to explore the diverse and treasured corners of the state. rolling terrain with dense pine forests and stream valleys with bottomland Leaving the valley, Scenic 7 ascends into the Ozark Mountains, famous for fall foliage, and the Ozark National Forest, and passes through the mountain town of Jasper along the Buffalo National River on its way to Harrison. 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. Ouachita National Forest (Hot Springs) - Tripadvisor Spend One Perfect Day in the Grand Canyon: Itinerary & Travel Tips. A quaint small town square boasting several antique shops awaits visitors at Jasper. This route is 54-mile long (87 kilometers) but if you want to stay within the state, then your drive will be of about 18 miles (29 kilometers). Get directions from your start address to the beginning of and including this scenic drive. 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. 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. Or should we take 40 at Russellville to Little Rock? Stop and enjoy the picture perfect view. 5. Scenic drive from Paris, Arkansas to the summit of Mount Magazine State Park. If this glorious drive leaves you wanting more, you can hop on the Scenic 7 Byway near Ponca, Arkansas, or take Interstate 40 to Ozark, Arkansas to drive the Pig Trail Scenic Byway, which runs parallel to the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway. This shelter was built in 1924 making it one of the oldest mountain shelters still in use today at Hot Springs National Park. 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. mountain ranges along with the Arkansas River Valley before running through the This drive along the Parkway will take you past seven Arkansas state parks and through the St. Francis National Forest! in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. Interstate 49 and U.S. 71, which are often referred to as two scenic byways of Arkansas, form Boston Mountains Scenic Loop.