A 2-mile round trip, this hike is a little more strenuous but well worth the effort. Heading west, the Talimena Scenic Drive might just be the most iconic trip in the state. Regarding the Buffalo River: there's no way to know it's coming until you are there, and then it's too late to stop and look. At Hot Springs, the byway journeys through the historic downtown and Downtown Harrison also embraces restaurants, an art gallery, antique stores, Prepare to be welcomed by refreshing vistas of oak-hickory forests and limestone cliffs. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through getting a good plate of inexpensive food. AR-7 heads over the Little Buffalo River, traveling by limestone and sandstone walls. 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. (HSBOR) Vacant land located at 1322 Lakeshore Dr Unit 1.13 ac +/-, Hot Springs, AR 71913 sold for $24,900 on Feb 12, 2021. . The Ouachita Mountains are unique in that they are the only mountain range in the United States whose ridges and valleys are oriented west to east. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Keyword. 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. Swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and fishing are enjoyed here. You may also grab a meal at the states oldest restaurant, White House Caf. 1.8 million acres of stunning landscape spans across central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. Quaff the elixir at the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. We spent the night about half way up 7, at Mount Magazine, which is about 18 miles west of the 7, but provided just another beautiful byway to take in the Quachita/Ozark Mountains, and the various national forests that cover this area. 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. Arkansas's largest lake, Lake Ouachita offers 40,000 acres of clear, clean water surrounded by the scenic Ouachita National Forest. Hot Springs National Park is home to 2 scenic driving trails with an average 4.3 star rating from 271 community reviews. 7. We drove from Harrison to Hot Springs on the road. West Mountain Scenic Drive. The spectacular 95-foot cascade of Cedar Falls can be experienced by hiking the popular Cedar Falls Trail. Home Arkansas Scenic Drives and Road Trips. Arkansas is so naturally beautiful that just your drive to the grocery store could be a treat, but in case you need more than just a couple miles of nature and serenity, here are some of the best scenic drives in Arkansas for motorists and motorcyclists alike. On the way back, stop at the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge (A2) which protects 7,000 acres of bottomland hardwoods and wetlands. 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. A quaint small town square boasting several antique shops awaits visitors at Jasper. Branson. 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. Or use the observation tower and foot trails. Are you a rock hound? Start out by spelunking the Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, then snake through the eastern portion of the Ozark National Forest. in Library Science. To the west of the town is a field of wild tallgrass prairie, much like the midwest. 53 mi. Cruise this route and youll see why we chose this spectacular spot. A few miles after Cowell, dont miss the Alum Cove Natural Bridge Recreation Area (H10), the highlight of which is a 130-foot natural bridge. 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. In Paris, head south on AR-309 for the park. Museum and Mystic Caverns. The folds of the Ouachitas run east-west, which is uncommon for mountain ranges Scenic Mountain Drives & Overlooks Non-hikers can drive to the top of Hot Springs and West Mountain summits. 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. At just 22 miles, this loop is the perfect round-trip drive for a quick excursion into Arkansass wilderness. There's a lot more to do for those who want to spend more days. In a few miles, consider a side trip on AR-16 to the trailhead for Pedestal Rocks (H8), where a 2.2-mile round trip trail brings you to unique geologic formations weather-carved rock pedestals. The website features a bloom calendar. Both of these byways start near my neck of the woods, in Alma, and run up to Fayetteville. Russellville. You may check out the haunted Crescent Hotel nearby. 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! Pack your hiking boots if youre in the mood to hop and explore the abundance of trails along this journey. Mystic Caverns (A3) is a geologic wonder featuring incredible rock formations, stalactites and the 28-foot pipe organ. Beautiful scenery. My car sits idle and the most wildlife I get to see on any given day is the abundance of pigeons in Central Park. 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! Besides the 3 Scenic Byways, #'s 21, 23, and 309 we're planning on driving does anyone have recommendations for other drives? Thank you! Enjoy your trip! View Artist-In-Residence artwork at the Ozark Bathhouse. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price. We have a trip planned end of july-early August. What is the most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas? Is this road safe to drive in a rented rv (24-26')? 101 Reserve Street Shelter houses like the one found here were built to provide visitors with a place to relax and enjoy the view. If digging is not your style, they have a fantastic rock shop. Follow the grand Mississippi along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway! It was a lovely, relaxing drive. See our full. So fasten your seat belts and explore the best scenic drives in Arkansas, USA. Pig Trail Scenic Byway - a U.S. Forest Service-selected drive with a name as colorful as the scenery. Camping and RV hookups are available. Where to stay by the Crater od Diamonds State Park. Continuing though the forested Ouachitas, it passes through the Ouachita National Forest and by Lake Nimrod, then reaches Russellville and crosses the more level terrain of the Arkansas River Valley. We stopped at several viewpoints and the mountains were truly beautiful and if you can, go in the Fall. The Boston Mountains Scenic Loop is formed by two state scenic byways - U.S. 71 and Interstate 49. :) Then go to the Pruitt Ranger Station for info, and park in the picnic area, you will enjoy this little stop very much. Arguably one of the most scenic drives in America, the route begins on the south end within the West Gulf Coastal Plain, a region that saw an oil boom beginning in 1921 near El Dorado. The road winds through the mountains, and there are cute gift shops and a couple of restaurants along the way. One of eight historic buildings that make up Bathhouse Row, The Fordyce was restored in 1989. 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. If youre up for a longer hike, try Hunts Loop Trail that begins near the Iron Springs Recreation Area or the Ouachita Trail trailhead. This will give you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take in the breathtaking views of Arkansas. Did you drive it and how was it. Starting in one of my all-time favorite towns, Hot Springs, and trailing westward over the state line, this 100-mile excursion is sure to please. Copyright 1997 - 2023 The Go Travel Sites. Between Mena, AR, and Talihina, OK, the drive offers scenic vistas, historical sites, camping, picnicking, hiking, Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Visitor Information Stations, and Robert S. Kerr Memorial Arboretum and Nature Center and Botanical Area. A summary of what Hot Springs has to offer. With great sweepers, great Scenic views, and beautiful countryside it just can't be beat. The scenery is densely forested land with scenic overlooks that seem to go forever. Pin These Beautiful Arkansas Scenic Drives for Your Travels! . Traveling north, the road becomes twisty and steep, revealing magnificent views with every turn. The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of . The Automobile Age lay in the future when Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive was laid out in 1886 as a carriage road. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! boating and water sports. We drove this highway for a whole day. 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. 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!). Explore mature pine and hardwood forest via the paved accessible 30-minute interpretive Friendship Trail that begins just behind the ranger station. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. There are several scenic pull outs to stop and look at. The duration is an estimate of a one-way drive and does not include any stops or side-trips. You can send yourself an email as well. Just per adult. Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite. You can pass by the miniature Eiffel Tower in downtown Paris a close second to the city of lights. within the West Gulf Coastal Plain, a region that saw an oil boom beginning in Originally being made of wood in 1877, the tower was rebuilt with steel and an elevator in 1982 with both open and enclosed observation decks. Is the 7 from Russellville to Hot Springs very scenic? 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. What better place to start this list than with Arkansass first scenic byway! The first overview affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. You will enjoy the trip very much and there are lots side trips along the way. Beautiful views await, but note some sections of the trail are cliff-hugging, and you must take caution at the top. Read the sites full Privacy & Disclosure policy here. We (and several other cars) went across the bridge and turned around. where swapping stories over cups of coffee is as important to the locals as Click the Add to Road Trip above to start planning your next road trip. 290 miles. What is nearest place to stay near this scenic byway starting point? the entire state from north to south. The second overlook has a historic trail shelter and picnic tables, and the summit has a view south to the Trap Mountains and Lake Hamilton. The cities or towns listed have either Food or Services such as gas, pharmacies, etc. 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. 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. With the lush forest forming tunnels overhead, and the Mulberry River rushing by, you may even forget that you are in your car! Herons, bald eagles, egrets nest here and American alligators can be found in the small lakes. the 1914 Boone County Jail, and the completely restored 1929 Hotel Seville. Keyword. We started in Hot Springs and ended in Harrison. Throughout the entire stretch, you will witness a plethora of splendid sights so you better keep your camera ready. Easy 4.5 (935) Hot Springs National Park. 12. 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). Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Arkansas. Primitive camping with no facilities at Richland Creek campsite. 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. So many beautiful sites. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. We are coming to see fall color from Dallas. We recently took 2 full days to drive up Scenic Byway 7, in central Arkansas. Picnic at one of the established picnic areas. The park has a small fee which is covered by the America the Beautiful Pass. Especially if you can take perfect photos to commemorate the tour! Named one of the cleanest lakes in America, Lake Ouachita is the perfect location for swimming, water skiing, scuba diving and fishing. 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. Scenic drives to consider in the Fort Smith area are listed below. Arkansas. What national parks in Arkansas have scenic driving trails? Beautiful drive and leaves beginning to turn. These 10 best scenic drives in Arkansas, USA, can be a great way to explore the diverse and treasured corners of the state. You will pass Wilhelmina State Park with the possibility for something to eat. Great area to enjoy. Explore a portion of the 196-mile long Ozark Highlands Trail (H9) which can be accessed shortly after the Fairview Campground. (There seems to be SO many beautiful drives!) Interstate 49 and U.S. 71, which are often referred to as two scenic byways of Arkansas, form Boston Mountains Scenic Loop. Perfect drive way in US. Actually a collapsed cave, the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks is a wide-valley carved by the Buffalo River. 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? Horn in 1911 and dedicated to superintendent Harry H. Myers. Crystal Trail deserves a day trip or a weekend excursion. The Pig Trail - One of the most scenic drives in the state of Arkansas. Ida, a silver mining city and USAs quartz capital. Using your free account, simply sign in and select My Drives. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? Generally considered an easy route. Passing through farmland and parks, this loop orbits a portion of Lake Chicot which is Arkansass biggest natural lake and the largest oxbow lake in the USA. One of the points we liked best was south of Harrison. 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! 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 drive begins at the intersection of hwy 43 and hwy 74, and travels north to the town of Ponca. Cotter Trout Dock Guided Trout Fishing Tours. The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of the coolest sights in the state. 3. By the way, Arkansas website is very good with maps and detailed info. Transportation companies, driving directions and more for Hot Springs. In addition, the town has the Boone County Heritage Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Arkansas Area. 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. Fully submerge yourself in the thermal water and let your worries melt away. It is a beautiful area with a lot of county roads to explore. Nothing can beat the thrill of a road journey! Discover a rejuvenating world of untouched natural beauty on these scenic roads. Your first stop is South Arkansas Arboretum, a wonderfully maintained botanical garden. This shelter was built in 1924 making it one of the oldest mountain shelters still in use today at Hot Springs National Park. At a Glance Activities Scenic Driving Amenities Not that adventurous? It remains that way until climbing out of the Little Become an Agent. The trip starts at Mena and ends at Rich Mountain where you will get to see Quachita National Forest and Queen Wilhelmina State Park. Spend One Perfect Day in the Grand Canyon: Itinerary & Travel Tips. Arguably one of the most scenic drives in America, the route begins on the south end within the West Gulf Coastal Plain, a region that saw an oil boom beginning in 1921 near El Dorado. This drive is a real gem! Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. Cruise through this classic 37-mile stretch (59 kilometers) via Boston Mountains at an altitude of about 1500 feet (457 meters). 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! As you travel north, youll enter the Ouachita Mountains, then pass through to the Arkansas River Valley, and end in the Ozark Mountains. Another absolute must-visit point is Mt. 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. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 31 h 6 min to complete. Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." 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. , Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street off Central Avenue downtown. Samali Basu, a Content Creator with almost a decade's experience, is a former field journalist with a demonstrated history of working with various industries. To reach it, head west on FR-1801 and then northwest on FR-1804. . 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. Searchable listings of Hot Springs restaurants, bars, diners, and more. The flavor of the city is See the Ouachitas characteristic Paleozoic rocks and stunning mountain vistas, look out your window for views of red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks, ominous turkey vultures, and even majestic eagles. sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." Hot Springs The 4.5-mile Seven Hollows Trail passes a natural stone arch, rock shelters, a box canyon and signs of bluff-dwelling Native Americans. It's a place Head out on this 4.7-mile point-to-point trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. It's one of those attractions that everyone needs to do at least once. 3.0 average from 1 vote. Scenic Day Trips War Eagle Mill-- From Eureka Springs take Highway 23 South to Highway 12 and follow it to War Eagle Mill. 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. Drive slowly and have your binoculars on hand. About 10 miles Enjoy the drive. The Mount Magazine Scenic Byway takes you through 25 miles of the Ozark National Forest, then unfolding to showcase the states archetypal agricultural land. Feast your eyes on the fabulous views of the city from Pinnacle Mountain. Two Mountain Way runs along White River, an extremely popular point for trout fishing. All Arkansas Novaculite is found within a 50-mile radius of Hot Springs, drawing Native Americans from all over to this location. The popular trail is wheelchair accessible for the first half-mile, total round-trip is 2-miles. There are a few small towns along the way, and you won't need to worry about necessities. Your first stop is South Arkansas Arboretum, a wonderfully maintained botanical garden. There's also a picnic area nearby if you want to sit and stay for a while. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? Bring a flashlight for the cave. You cross an old, green, iron bridge, over the Buffalo River. along the Buffalo National River on its way to Harrison. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. Arguably The 4.25-mile moderate trail passes fascinating geologic features on its way up Short Mountain, culminating with panoramic views of the forest. Once on top of the ridgeline, the curves Frequently asked questions about scenic driving trails in Arkansas. Track your favorite scenic drives by selecting those which you want to take and those that you have taken. Boston Mountains Scenic Drive Arkansas,United States, Scenery Ride Enjoyment Tourism Opportunities 3.93 out of 5 Rider Rating View All Best Motorcycle Roads & Rides in Arkansas Signup For eNewsletter Updates on new roads, events, motorcycle news and more! All Rights Reserved and. There is a fee but many awesome specimens have been found here. It's not for the faint of heart but if you like getting close to nature, enjoying brilliant fall foliage and visiting small communities, then Ark. Love Arkansas? Condos for sale near me; Hot Springs Property Records; AR New Listings; . 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. Discover this 2.4-mile loop trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Seven miles from Hot Springs, turn left to remain on AR-7. resort town is known for its thermal waters from which it gets its name, and 2. When Has anyone stayed at the Harmony Mountain Retreat in Jasper? Head out on this 3.6-mile loop trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. 1 h 10 mi. from. The nameOuachitacomes from Caddo and Choctaw words meaning good hunting grounds, so you know youre bound to see some extraordinary wildlife along this byway! broaden a bit, and the scenery is top-tier. Just the sight of the soaring gliders is incredible. 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. The caves and caverns of the area, alongside of Highway 7, sound beautiful. Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours. Of course, you can still use the full version of Go-Arkansas on your mobile device just as you can on your desktop. She is Post Graduate in English (Do a quick search on the following sites). Are there any height restrictions. Pass through Mt. Top ways to experience nearby attractions. The museum is free and kid-friendly with hands-on exhibits. Go-Arkansas.com, part of The Go Travel Sites family, is among the largest websites covering travel and vacationing in Arkansas.