AR-7 heads over the Little Buffalo River, traveling by limestone and sandstone walls. 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. Condos for sale near me; Hot Springs Property Records; AR New Listings; . we are heading that way soon. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The 57 mile War Eagle Ride takes you to War Eagle Mill, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and Hobbs State Park. Branson. The boyhood town of President Bill Clinton, Hot Springs features splendid Victorian architecture, and a downtown lined with historic buildings. Fifteen miles of Interstate 530 has been designated as a scenic byway, and its no surprise as to why! Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." To visit, from AR-16, turn right onto the gravel Forest Road 28 for 3 miles. Send this link to your phone. There are plenty of spots to throw on your hazards and hop out to snap some photos or just take in your surroundings. Many hikes of varying levels allow the opportunity to explore the incredible and unique geology. The road winds through the mountains, and there are cute gift shops and a couple of restaurants along the way. Generally considered an easy route. 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. Museum and Mystic Caverns. 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. If youre up for a longer hike, try Hunts Loop Trail that begins near the Iron Springs Recreation Area or the Ouachita Trail trailhead. It doesnt matter which direction you are headed to as Arkansas will never run out of amazing destinations to check out. If digging is not your style, they have a fantastic rock shop. EXPERIENCE the magnificence of this world and this beautiful state. A birders paradise, over 100 species make their home here. 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. 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. A few of the most photographed gardens include the Evan Children's Adventure Garden and the Garden of the Pine Wind. 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. It 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. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. 10 Best Scenic Drives In Arkansas, USA | Trip101 Mount Nebo is also one of two launch sites in Arkansas for hang gliders (the other is Mount Magazine which is just ahead). 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. Download map or text a link to your phone, Jessieville Visitor Information and Ranger Station (I2), Alum Cove Natural Bridge Recreation Area (H10). 1 h 10 mi. This is the perfect place to see migratory birds, beavers, and river otters during the winter, and abundant white-tailed deer year-round. Bring a flashlight for the cave. Perfect drive way in US. In case you get hungry while on the road, drop by The Ohio Club and try out their scrumptious burgers and sandwiches. 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! Fun drive! Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street off Central Avenue downtown. Definitely recommend to people who aren't in a hurry. Right before the byway ends, take a break and chill on Arkansas River. Wax museums are fascinating places to learn about the lives of famous, infamous and extraordinary people from all over the world. 7. 1322 Lakeshore Dr Unit 1.13 ac +/-, Hot Springs, AR 71913 Keyword. In addition, the town has the Boone County Heritage Museum and Mystic Caverns. The trip starts at Mena and ends at Rich Mountain where you will get to see Quachita National Forest and Queen Wilhelmina State Park. 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. These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. 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. West Mountain Drive has entrances on Prospect Avenue and Whittington Avenue. Arkansas Head up Zig Zag Mountain to the Hot Springs Mountain Overlook (V1), enjoying hairpin curves before being rewarded with unforgettable views from the Hot Springs Mountain tower. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. 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 addition to picnic tables is a historic mountain shelter located on the left side of the overlook. The Pig Trail - One of the most scenic drives in the state of Arkansas. Enjoy the drive. $66.67. 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 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. Heading north on AR-7, you soon enter the Ouachita National Forest. per adult. Especially if you can take perfect photos to commemorate the tour! 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. 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. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. Today, the lake is a haven for water-based recreation, especially fishing for largemouth bass, bream, crappie and catfish. Enjoy your trip! 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. This 38-mile long drive (61 kilometers) will take you to the topmost point of Ozark Mountain. If youre looking for a way to unwind after a long day of kayaking in the southern sun, or looking to bypass the crowds altogether while still getting your fill of nature, then the Caddo Gap is the perfect place to begin your vehicular quest! Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street which is off Central Avenue downtown. Wild elk herds can be spotted along AR-74, particularly at dawn and dusk. Garven Woodland Gardens, Hot Springs Tulips at Garvan Woodland Gardens These beautiful gardens encompass 210 manicured acres on the shoreline of Lake Hamilton near Hot Springs. One of the best scenic drives in Arizona, the roughly 40-mile Apache Trail gains nearly 6,000 feet of elevation, featuring jaw-dropping mountain passes, vibrant wildflowers, and pristine . reflected in the Main Street Harrison Historic Walking Tour, which includes Nothing can beat the thrill of a road journey! Great views, trails, and other amenities. Nice getting off of the highwayd and looking at the mountains and valleys. The trail shares the road with vehicles, so using reflective materials, lights, or flagging is recommended for safety. The scenery is densely forested land with scenic overlooks that seem to go forever. Start out by spelunking the Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, then snake through the eastern portion of the Ozark National Forest. this was an amazing scenic drive! Enjoy the Hixson Family Woodland Nature Preserve, the Japanese inspired Garden of Pine Wind, or Singing Springs Gorge and Millsap Canopy Bridge, impressive views of Lake Hamilton and more. 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. There are several scenic lookouts along the drives as well as some picnic areas. Full information on Hot Springs Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives and other easy vacation activities. There are a few small towns along the way, and you won't need to worry about necessities. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Scenic 7: Among the Most Scenic Drives in AmericaRoute: Petit Jean State Park is one of the most attractive and most convenient options since it's only an hour outside of Little Rock. Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR 72110-9362, USA Phone +1 501-727-5441 Web Visit website When it comes to breathtaking state parks, the Natural State doesn't disappoint. Access to the river is right there, by foot. Fall foliage will have the hills ablaze with color. The popular trail is wheelchair accessible for the first half-mile, total round-trip is 2-miles. Actually a collapsed cave, the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks is a wide-valley carved by the Buffalo River. What national parks in Arkansas have scenic driving trails? THANKS Ron. The road is paved so no 4WD is necessary but keep the hairpin turns in mind! Interstate 49 and U.S. 71, which are often referred to as two scenic byways of Arkansas, form Boston Mountains Scenic Loop. 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. 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. The caves and caverns of the area, alongside of Highway 7, sound beautiful. 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 next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is. If you want to soak in naturally heated springs, check out Hot Springs National Park. The nameOuachitacomes from Caddo and Choctaw words meaning good hunting grounds, so you know youre bound to see some extraordinary wildlife along this byway! West Mountain Scenic Drive | Map, Guide - Arkansas | AllTrails While the northern portion is moist, the southern half of the mountain includes cacti. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. AR When its late summer, absolutely sweltering outside and far too hot for a hike, or when its a cool and misty autumn day but I still want the chance to see Arkansass stunning foliage, the best thing to do is load the car and go for a cruise. Buffalo River Valley at Jasper. Have more destinations? 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. This scenic drive may be short but its one that every Hot Springs visitor should take! sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." Spot the glistening Arkansas River right before reaching the end of the byway in Webb City, Arkansas. Arkansas's largest lake, Lake Ouachita offers 40,000 acres of clear, clean water surrounded by the scenic Ouachita National Forest. We are 40 ft long and 13.5 high. We have a trip planned end of july-early August. Explore mature pine and hardwood forest via the paved accessible 30-minute interpretive Friendship Trail that begins just behind the ranger station. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. Have a favorite flower? Continue to Mobile Site This drive is a real gem! Ouachita National Forest (Hot Springs) - Tripadvisor Is it still enjoyable in the extreme heat? 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. Arkansas in Pictures: 15 Beautiful Places to Photograph 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. Are there any height restrictions. 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. Once on top of the ridgeline, the curves AR 7 reaches Pelsor, it begins its descent into the Arkansas River Valley at 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. 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. What is the most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas? Make a quick visit to Hickory Nut Mountain where you can enjoy delightful views of Ouachita Lake. Scenic 7 Byway is a 290-mile route that stretches from the Louisiana state border to Harrison, Arkansas going darn-near straight through the middle of the state! Where to stay by the Crater od Diamonds State Park. Become an Agent. This Lake Ouachita State Park | Arkansas State Parks Bream, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and largemouth bass can be caught in open waters or quiet coves. What better place to start this list than with Arkansass first scenic byway! Starting and ending in Lake Village, Arkansas, Lake Chicot Loop circumnavigates part of Lake Chicot, the largest natural lake in the state. 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. AR Hope you enjoy the drive. 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. Scenic 7 | Explore Arkansas - myscenicdrives.com 7 begins in the Ozarks near the shores of Bull Shoals Lake. It can be hiked, biked, or auto-toured at proper times for a small fee. . resort town is known for its thermal waters from which it gets its name, and The only thing that obstructed your view was the fact that the forest had grown up so much. Head out on this 3.6-mile loop trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Fanstastic rural drive through winding two lane state road. READ MORE. Snap some photos of the regions magnificent waterfowl on your way through! To experience the hot springs in a traditional sense, head to Buckstaff Bathhouse to soak and steam away stress and stiff muscles. crystals, and passes by DeGray Lake, home of Arkansas's only resort state park. Choose either an alternate ending or same as start. 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. You see all sorts of environments: farm, field, forest, mountain, meadow, river/stream/pond/lake. 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. Cruise through this classic 37-mile stretch (59 kilometers) via Boston Mountains at an altitude of about 1500 feet (457 meters). Meander through the Ouachita National Forest, ascend Arkansass second-highest point, and check out Queen Wilhelmina State Park, all without even unbuckling your seatbelt. Explore a portion of the 196-mile long Ozark Highlands Trail (H9) which can be accessed shortly after the Fairview Campground. With great sweepers, great Scenic views, and beautiful countryside it just can't be beat. . Thank you! The dam was built in 1942 to control flooding along the Fourche La Fave River and created Nimrod Lake. We started at Hot Springs, which has many, many places to stay. All Rights Reserved and. The canyon is just south of Jasper. The real thrill is the abundance of wild animals here such as turkey vultures, eagles, black bears, and more. The 4.5-mile Seven Hollows Trail passes a natural stone arch, rock shelters, a box canyon and signs of bluff-dwelling Native Americans. The Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway starts in the Ozarks at Clarksville, Arkansas, and leads motorists through 35 miles of striking forest and to the Buffalo National River. During the fall, this is one of my familys favorite routes for getting out and into the mountains. rolling terrain with dense pine forests and stream valleys with bottomland So many beautiful sites. The duration is an estimate of a one-way drive and does not include any stops or side-trips. Now that I live in New York City, I dont driveanywhere. #9 - Scenic 7 Byway: Harrison to Russellville. The remains of a quartz sandstone cave, the arch can be reached by a short trail, passing rare flowers, including the Frenchs shooting star. dense pine woodlands of southern Arkansas. Both of these byways start near my neck of the woods, in Alma, and run up to Fayetteville. Of course, make sure you have plenty of time, we had to turn around a few times to attempt this. Any season would be nice, but Winter certainly wasn't the best. 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. 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. After Jasper, but before you get to Harrison there is the great Buffalo River. We (and several other cars) went across the bridge and turned around. The Arkansas portion of Crowleys Ridge Parkway is 198 miles of Eastern Arkansas goodness. The road dances along the hills, delighting with amazing views of mountains and valleys. Other attractive stops here include the underground caves at Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, Calico Rock, and Norfork Lake. Pig Trail Scenic Byway - a U.S. Forest Service-selected drive with a name as colorful as the scenery. In no particular order, and with each route offering a unique landscape, youll want to check out all of these amazing Arkansas scenic byways! Beautiful scenery. 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!). A number of trails, bike rentals, lakes, campsites and cabins make this a great stop. Spend One Perfect Day in the Grand Canyon: Itinerary & Travel Tips. 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. Beautiful views with vistas and rest stops to take pictures from. The first overview affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. Thanks in advance for any suggestions you have! The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of the coolest sights in the state. The drive begins at Fountain Street, just off of Central Avenue. Ida, a silver mining city and USAs quartz capital. Map: http://www.arkansashighways.com/scenic_byways_program/highway7.aspx. 53 mi. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. Quaff the elixir at the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. Our free Road Trip Planner will reverse the route and include the places of interests. Is this road safe to drive in a rented rv (24-26')? Youll also pass through Marble Falls, Arkansas (the town formerly known as Dogpatch), and can see the glorious Marble Falls waterfall. You cross an old, green, iron bridge, over the Buffalo River. Under this protection, no dams or other obstacles can be built along it, meaning nature takes its course. Just before crossing, the Pruitt Ranger Station (I3) is open from March to September for information. Scenic Drives, points of interest, in northwest Arkansas - Arkansas From there you can travel up into the beautifully rugged Boston Mountains. The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of . There isnt much traffic and there are several overlooks with ample parking. 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. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through rolling terrain with dense pine forests and stream valleys with bottomland hardwood forests. (Husband is recovering from torn tendon surgery.) The drive begins at the intersection of hwy 43 and hwy 74, and travels north to the town of Ponca. Keyword. 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. We're thinking of staying near the Jasper area but are flexible at this point. 290 miles. The roads were in good condition and lots of places to turn off and take photos. Lets head up the mountain to see the grand view. Are you a rock hound? We drove from Hot Springs north to Harrison in Route 7. 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. Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). It crosses the Ozark and Ouachita Arkansas: With an ascent of 6,797 m, Arkansas Highway 7 Scenic Byway has the most elevation gain of all of the scenic driving trails in the area. It is a two way road that leads to the Summit Loop where you will find three overlooks. Hot Springs Scenic Drives near Hot Springs, Arkansas Two Mountain Way runs along White River, an extremely popular point for trout fishing. 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. 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. The Mount Magazine Scenic Byway takes you through 25 miles of the Ozark National Forest, then unfolding to showcase the states archetypal agricultural land. Planning to go on a road trip where you can catch a glimpse of Arkansas captivating beauty? . Has anyone stayed at the Harmony Mountain Retreat in Jasper? where swapping stories over cups of coffee is as important to the locals as Send to Phone. Frequently asked questions about scenic driving trails in Arkansas. THE 5 BEST Arkansas Scenic Drives (with Photos) - Tripadvisor 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! Don't miss hiking Lost Valley Trail. There's a lot more to do for those who want to spend more days. Arkansas. Join us. You can pass by the miniature Eiffel Tower in downtown Paris a close second to the city of lights. Learn more about the towns history and traditional arts when you head over to Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View. There are multiple overlooks to stop at and take in the view. Hot Springs weather report, historic temperatures and climate info,. Another absolute must-visit point is Mt. 5. Where to stop between Memphis and Little Rock? 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. Standard text messaging rates apply. You may check out the haunted Crescent Hotel nearby. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. Scenic 7 Byway 33 Reviews Scenic Drives AR Save wolfie_n Dallas, Texas 242 258 Russellville to Hot Springs through Ouachita National Forest Review of Scenic 7 Byway Reviewed November 14, 2015 I drove the portion of Scenic 7 Byway between Russellville and Hot Springs in late September. If you choose a night-driving experience, then you might hear the coyotes howling. You can also fill your own jugs of fresh hot spring water at a nozzled fountain near the Visitor Center.