Scenic Please Be watchful for loose gravel and heavily oiled roads which is abundant in Arkansas. 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. Beautiful scenery. 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. At just 22 miles, this loop is the perfect round-trip drive for a quick excursion into Arkansass wilderness. EXPERIENCE the magnificence of this world and this beautiful state. READ MORE. Cotter Trout Dock Guided Trout Fishing Tours. Another absolute must-visit point is Mt. Happy trails. Keyword. Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours. Access to the river is right there, by foot. . lodging, boat rentals, bait, tackle, snacks and more. Right before the byway ends, take a break and chill on Arkansas River. Very curvy, very steep sides, lots of areas with no shoulders. You will find an outcrop of Arkansas Novaculite at the top as well; this rock was used by the Caddo Users note that this is the most impressive scenic drive in all of the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas or Missouri. 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. 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!). The Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive is more than just a tourist attraction. one of the most scenic drives in America, the route begins on the south end Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 31 h 6 min to complete. and other retail shops. Snap some photos of the regions magnificent waterfowl on your way through! Other attractions also include Ouachita National Recreation Trail, Pinnacle Mountain State Park, and backwater areas. Choose from a wide variety of day-use areas and overnight accommodations. Seven miles from Hot Springs, turn left to remain on AR-7. manageable by beginners. The real thrill is the abundance of wild animals here such as turkey vultures, eagles, black bears, and more. Discover a rejuvenating world of untouched natural beauty on these scenic roads. along the Buffalo National River on its way to Harrison. The garden contains nearly three miles of trails traversing a diverse mix of botanical landscapes. Make a quick visit to Hickory Nut Mountain where you can enjoy delightful views of Ouachita Lake. There isnt much traffic and there are several overlooks with ample parking. Is this road suitable for large fifth wheells?We will be coming off of I 40 to go to Branson. The panoramic view of the valley below is one you'll never forget. They are nicely spaced apart, with nature making a command performance between. Beautiful drive and leaves beginning to turn. Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum. If you want to soak in naturally heated springs, check out Hot Springs National Park. Your first stop is South Arkansas Arboretum, a wonderfully maintained botanical garden. Just 290 miles. where swapping stories over cups of coffee is as important to the locals as awaits visitors at Jasper. (Husband is recovering from torn tendon surgery.) Arkansas Tourism Arkansas Hotels Arkansas Bed and Breakfast Arkansas Vacation Rentals Arkansas . Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. Where to stop between Memphis and Little Rock? The Mount Magazine Scenic Byway takes you through 25 miles of the Ozark National Forest, then unfolding to showcase the states archetypal agricultural land. What is the most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas? 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. We had the time and decided to do the entire byway from Eueka Springs to El Dorado. Especially if you can take perfect photos to commemorate the tour! It's one of those attractions that everyone needs to do at least once. isnt very wide, for soon you will climb into the foothills of the Ouachitas. Quaff the elixir at the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. in Library Science. Leaving Arguably I would say October is the best time to tour Arkansas on your trusted two wheeled steed. Ida, a silver mining city and USAs quartz capital. All Rights Reserved and. 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. Arkansas Since this stone breaks with a predictable cone-shaped fracture, they could easily carve tools into whatever shape and thickness they desired, commonly carving the rock into arrowheads, blades, drills, and other various tool. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. At Hot Springs, the byway journeys through the historic downtown and The Arkansas portion of Crowleys Ridge Parkway is 198 miles of Eastern Arkansas goodness. The road is paved so no 4WD is necessary but keep the hairpin turns in mind! The 4.5-mile Seven Hollows Trail passes a natural stone arch, rock shelters, a box canyon and signs of bluff-dwelling Native Americans. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. Head out on this 4.7-mile point-to-point trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. Not that adventurous? Both of these byways start near my neck of the woods, in Alma, and run up to Fayetteville. All Arkansas Novaculite is found within a 50-mile radius of Hot Springs, drawing Native Americans from all over to this location. There are a few small towns along the way, and you won't need to worry about necessities. #9 - Scenic 7 Byway: Harrison to Russellville. Full information on Hot Springs Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives and other easy vacation activities. Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price. We're thinking of staying near the Jasper area but are flexible at this point. 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. 1921 near El Dorado. With so much to see, consider another side trip to Long Pool Recreation Area (H7), along Big Piney Creek. Right before the bridge is a ranger station and you can park and go down to the river edge and be in awe of the rock wall and the beautiful river. The road dances along the hills, delighting with amazing views of mountains and valleys. Look but don't touch! 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. Don't forget your camera. 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. The drive begins at the intersection of hwy 43 and hwy 74, and travels north to the town of Ponca. 2. In the 1880s, major league baseball teams began bringing their players to Hot . Cruise the Ouachita Mountains by way of this Scenic Byway! Frequently asked questions about scenic driving trails in Arkansas. Across from the Newton County Courthouse is a legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. Planning to go on a road trip where you can catch a glimpse of Arkansas captivating beauty? Arkadelphia, the route enters the Ouachita Mountains, famous for their quartz You see all sorts of environments: farm, field, forest, mountain, meadow, river/stream/pond/lake. 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. Want a hair-raising experience? The short and easy Rock House Cave Trail leads to a deep rock shelter which features early Native American rock paintings. Pine Bluff is a town full of rich history, so hop out of the oljalopy and explore a bit! The boyhood town of President Bill Clinton, Hot Springs features splendid Victorian architecture, and a downtown lined with historic buildings. At the top of Hot Springs Mountain is the 10 story Hot Springs Tower with an observation deck at the top. Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Additionally, the Zigzag Mountains is the area known as the recharge zone for the thermal springs. There's a lot more to do for those who want to spend more days. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. 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. West Mountain Scenic Drive. Condos for sale near me; Hot Springs Property Records; AR New Listings; . Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! The Whitaker Point Trail, often called the Hawksbill Crag (H11) Trail, is a 3-mile round trip through lush forest, passing waterfalls and large boulders. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through Gods beauty but keep your eyes on the road. Explore art galleries, antique shops, dining and nightlife. So fasten your seat belts and explore the best scenic drives in Arkansas, USA. Petit Jean State Park is one of the most attractive and most convenient options since it's only an hour outside of Little Rock. Have a lot of time on your hands? There are horse trails that go through the park as well. Back in Dardanelle, head west on AR-22 for a side trip to Mount Magazine State Park (H5) which sits atop Mount Magazine, the highest point in Arkansas at 2,753-feet. A 2-mile round trip, this hike is a little more strenuous but well worth the effort. 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. You must drive slower due to all the curves. You can start your journey down the Sylamore Scenic Byway by visiting the Blanchard Springs Caverns, then starting up your engine and traveling this 26.5-mile stretch through North-Central Arkansas. Scenic Byway 7 in Arkansas, the state's first state-designated scenic byway, Downtown Harrison also embraces restaurants, an art gallery, antique stores, and other retail shops. and the Ozark National Forest, and passes through the mountain town of Jasper You can continue on to North Mountain Loop and then back down to Fountain Street. Return to Main Site. With the lush forest forming tunnels overhead, and the Mulberry River rushing by, you may even forget that you are in your car! buildings, make up its national historic district. 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. $66.67. Primitive camping with no facilities at Richland Creek campsite. Cruise this route and youll see why we chose this spectacular spot. To experience the hot springs in a traditional sense, head to Buckstaff Bathhouse to soak and steam away stress and stiff muscles. 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. The first overview affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. Located on this overlook is the historic Hot Springs Mountain Pagoda, designed by architect J.G. The roads were in good condition and lots of places to turn off and take photos. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 49 min to complete. 5. Looking out from the pagoda is the city of Hot Springs with the Ouachita Mountains out in the distance. AR-7 heads over the Little Buffalo River, traveling by limestone and sandstone walls. It may be one of the most touristy sites in Hot Springs but for good reason. Swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and fishing are enjoyed here. During our visit, the water was green! The park has a small fee which is covered by the America the Beautiful Pass. Plan to take this trip in about two months for jaw-dropping foliage colors and cooler temps to enjoy. 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. Starting and ending in Lake Village, Arkansas, Lake Chicot Loop circumnavigates part of Lake Chicot, the largest natural lake in the state. The seasons listed are the best seasons for this scenic drive. The trail shares the road with vehicles, so using reflective materials, lights, or flagging is recommended for safety. Russellville. Is it still enjoyable in the extreme heat? Both of these byways start near my neck of the woods, in Alma, and run up to Fayetteville. Interstate 49 and U.S. 71, which are often referred to as two scenic byways of Arkansas, form Boston Mountains Scenic Loop. While the northern portion is moist, the southern half of the mountain includes cacti. You may also grab a meal at the states oldest restaurant, White House Caf. Hike some or all of the park's 26 miles of trails. The scenery is densely forested land with scenic overlooks that seem to go forever. It is a two way road that leads to the Summit Loop where you will find three overlooks. Jasper take Arkansas State Highway 74 to Ponca, then 43 to the top of the Continuing north for 10 miles, the forest opens up to grand views. Hot Springs National Park is home to 2 scenic driving trails with an average 4.3 star rating from 271 community reviews. Commencing in Lake Village, this drive covers a stretch of 22 miles (35 kilometers) and is perfect for enjoying the backwoods of this state. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and road biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. We drove this highway for a whole day. A birders paradise, over 100 species make their home here. The trip starts at Mena and ends at Rich Mountain where you will get to see Quachita National Forest and Queen Wilhelmina State 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. 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. the entire state from north to south. Not recommended for young children. Starting down near the Louisiana border, youll pass through the West Gulf Coastal Plain region, where youll likely get a view of some Loblolly shortleaf pine trees the Arkansas state tree!