The Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive is more than just a tourist attraction. Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street which is off Central Avenue downtown. 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. Scenic Byway 7 in Arkansas, the state's first state-designated scenic byway, 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. 290 miles. 4. Is this road safe to drive in a rented rv (24-26')? . 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. The only thing that obstructed your view was the fact that the forest had grown up so much. The most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas is Arkansas Highway 7 Scenic Byway with a 4.5-star rating from 7 reviews. Generally considered an easy route. Crowley's Ridge National Scenic Byway 2 Scenic Drives By maldenmusic The grave site of local legend (and my gr gr uncle!) In the 1880s, major league baseball teams began bringing their players to Hot . Heading north on AR-7, you soon enter the Ouachita National Forest. You can send yourself an email as well. The breezy tour up the mountain is one that perfectly snapshots the beauty of Hot Springs, all without taking more than an hour. Taking you along AR-5 and AR-201, Two Mountain Way follows the White River, known for its bountiful trout fishing. Mount Nebo is also one of two launch sites in Arkansas for hang gliders (the other is Mount Magazine which is just ahead). The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is. If you get hungry, grab a bite at Jo-Jos Catfish Wharf located on the northern side of Mountain View. Just before Scenic 7 sharply twists its way down to Jasper, the Cliff House Inn and Restaurant offers a great meal and amazing vistas of the "Grand Canyon of the Ozarks." Access to the river is right there, by foot. Heading west, the Talimena Scenic Drive might just be the most iconic trip in the state. Pit toilet and picknic tables, fire rings. At the top of Hot Springs Mountain is the 10 story Hot Springs Tower with an observation deck at the top. The nameOuachitacomes from Caddo and Choctaw words meaning good hunting grounds, so you know youre bound to see some extraordinary wildlife along this byway! AR An amateur historian and travel enthusiast, I travel around the world full-time visiting historic sites: hidden chapels, Communist monuments, ancient cities, religious relics, national parks, or any place that is beautiful, interesting, or weird. The first overview affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. 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 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). Fanstastic rural drive through winding two lane state road. There is also a tunnel on the way and a great shopping spot called Fayetteville. Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the 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. Arkansas State Highway 7 from the Louisiana border to Harrison, Arkansas. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. The full address for this home is 1322 Lakeshore Drive Apartment 113 ac +/-, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913. 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. Hot Springs Hop Scavenger Hunt. Drive the park's scenic mountain roads. 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. We started at Hot Springs, which has many, many places to stay. 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. Drive awaits visitors at Jasper. Wed love to see your photos from the drive or nearby trails in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. 16 and 23 are a perfect choice for you. From wildlife watching to the extreme adventure, Mount Magazine is the only place in Arkansas which features rock climbing, rappelling and hang gliding. 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. Pig Trail Scenic Byway - a U.S. Forest Service-selected drive with a name as colorful as the scenery. The Pig Trail - One of the most scenic drives in the state of Arkansas. At Hot Springs, the byway journeys through the historic downtown and immediately in front of the famed Bathhouse Row of Hot Springs National Park. The Route 187 Scenic Loop Drive 3 Scenic Drives By 68kevanj The loop starts in downtown Eureka Springs, goes out past Beaver Lake and Beaver Dam, then goes up through the little. Otherwise known as The Natural State, Arkansas is considered a natural beauty because of its towering mountains, glistening lakes, and must-visit parks. What is nearest place to stay near this scenic byway starting point? 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. the 1914 Boone County Jail, and the completely restored 1929 Hotel Seville. Pass through Mt. Buckle up and explore north-central Arkansas through Sylamore Scenic Byway. 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. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. Cruise through this classic 37-mile stretch (59 kilometers) via Boston Mountains at an altitude of about 1500 feet (457 meters). 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. It's one of those attractions that everyone needs to do at least once. Wax museums are fascinating places to learn about the lives of famous, infamous and extraordinary people from all over the world. We started in Hot Springs and ended in Harrison. From there you can travel up into the beautifully rugged Boston Mountains. Return to Main Site. before Scenic 7 sharply twists its way down to Jasper, the Cliff House Inn and Picnic at one of the established picnic areas. Beautiful views await, but note some sections of the trail are cliff-hugging, and you must take caution at the top. manageable by beginners. West Mountain Trail. 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In five miles, you enter the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. 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? dense pine woodlands of southern Arkansas. 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. You can pass by the miniature Eiffel Tower in downtown Paris a close second to the city of lights. The duration is an estimate of a one-way drive and does not include any stops or side-trips. These 10 best scenic drives in Arkansas, USA, can be a great way to explore the diverse and treasured corners of the state. Museum and Mystic Caverns. Use our free Road Trip Planner to completely plan your adventure. Discover this 2.4-mile loop trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Crystal Trail deserves a day trip or a weekend excursion. 1921 near El Dorado. :) Then go to the Pruitt Ranger Station for info, and park in the picnic area, you will enjoy this little stop very much. By the way, Arkansas website is very good with maps and detailed info. Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours. Spot the glistening Arkansas River right before reaching the end of the byway in Webb City, Arkansas. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and road biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Choose either an alternate ending or same as start. Scenic 7: Among the Most Scenic Drives in AmericaRoute: Follow the grand Mississippi along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway! Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 31 h 6 min to complete. 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. Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud. The varied colors of the foliage look simply magical. The Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive is more than just a tourist attraction. Russellville. Scenic Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Arkansas Area. This is a popular trail for scenic driving, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Thanks! 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. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. Arguably Along with the stunning natural beauty, the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1933 and 1938 is outstanding. Arkansas: With an ascent of 22,299 ft, Arkansas Highway 7 Scenic Byway has the most elevation gain of all of the scenic driving trails in the area. It may be one of the most touristy sites in Hot Springs but for good reason. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. 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. Across from the Newton County Courthouse is a legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. Route: The top end of what Arkansans call "The Pig Trail," AR-23 is one of the state's most scenic drives, with wildflowers in the spring and . 5. We are traveling in October from Harrison, Arkansas on 7 to Little Rock. A quaint small town square boasting several antique shops awaits visitors at Jasper. Arkansas Tourism Arkansas Hotels Arkansas Guest House Arkansas Holiday Homes Arkansas Holiday . Leave nothing but tire tracks and take nothing but pictures except maybe some quartz. Two Mountain Way runs along White River, an extremely popular point for trout fishing. Please Be watchful for loose gravel and heavily oiled roads which is abundant in Arkansas. Heading north on AR-7 from Dardanelle, you cross the mighty Arkansas River where you will see the grain elevators which load grains and soybeans onto ships. Are you a rock hound? When Turn around if you have to like we did. Especially if you can take perfect photos to commemorate the tour! Actually a collapsed cave, the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks is a wide-valley carved by the Buffalo River. From this overlook is a great aerial view of Bathhouse row and downtown Hot Springs. 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. Resorts and marinas are located on the lakes for The flavor of the city is reflected in the Main Street Harrison Historic Walking Tour, which includes downtown parks, the historic Lyric Theater, the 1909 Boone Countycourthouse, the 1914 Boone County Jail, and the completely restored 1929 Hotel Seville. There are plenty of spots to throw on your hazards and hop out to snap some photos or just take in your surroundings. As you travel north, youll enter the Ouachita Mountains, then pass through to the Arkansas River Valley, and end in the Ozark Mountains. Snap some photos of the regions magnificent waterfowl on your way through! FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Definitely recommend to people who aren't in a hurry. 2. The driving part took 4 hours. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through As you approach Pig Trail Falls, you will also find many suitable spots for hiking, camping, and picture-taking here. Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). From the park, continue south on AR-309/AR-10 until you join up to AR-27, where driving east leads back to Dardanelle. At a Glance Activities Scenic Driving Amenities Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). Hot Springs, Arkansas - Scenic Drives Byways, Backways, Historic Routes,. The spectacular 95-foot cascade of Cedar Falls can be experienced by hiking the popular Cedar Falls Trail. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! in Library Science. READ MORE. 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! Fifteen miles of Interstate 530 has been designated as a scenic byway, and its no surprise as to why! Many hikes of varying levels allow the opportunity to explore the incredible and unique geology. Was meant to be a bike trip but am now worried about the weather. the valley, Scenic 7 ascends into the Ozark Mountains, famous for fall foliage, We stopped at several viewpoints and the mountains were truly beautiful and if you can, go in the Fall. What is the most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas? Or should we take 40 at Russellville to Little Rock? 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. This drive takes longer than the interstate obviously, but it is so well worth it. This byway passes through ten U.S. states, with the Arkansas portion of the journey will take you straight down through Eastern Arkansas. Ida, a silver mining city and USAs quartz capital. Driving along the Scenic 7 Byway will take you through four of Arkansass distinct natural geographic regions. Yes is in on highway 7 and no there isn't a charge. 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. Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street off Central Avenue downtown. Leaving What better place to start this list than with Arkansass first scenic byway! The panoramic view of the valley below is one you'll never forget. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. Head out on this 3.6-mile loop trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. Under this protection, no dams or other obstacles can be built along it, meaning nature takes its course. Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." Explore a portion of the 196-mile long Ozark Highlands Trail (H9) which can be accessed shortly after the Fairview Campground. We'd love to have your business listed on our site. 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 . It's been in the upper 90's/low 100's in the last week or so. One of eight historic buildings that make up Bathhouse Row, The Fordyce was restored in 1989. Spend One Perfect Day in the Grand Canyon: Itinerary & Travel Tips. One Perfect Day in Waterton Lakes National Park: Itinerary & Travel Tips. Thank you! As you continue, the forest changes to pasture and farmland. Scenic 7 Byway is a nationally recognized riding treasure that traverses almost 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. 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. The website features a bloom calendar. We're thinking of staying near the Jasper area but are flexible at this point. resort town is known for its thermal waters from which it gets its name, and Interstate 49 and U.S. 71, which are often referred to as two scenic byways of Arkansas, form Boston Mountains Scenic Loop. The Pagoda overlook offers a gorgeous view and fresh mountain air for drivers. Hot Springs National Park was created by President Andrew Jackson in 1832 as a National Reservation to protect and preserve the 47 natural thermal springs, making it the oldest park in the National Park System. Prepare to be welcomed by refreshing vistas of oak-hickory forests and limestone cliffs. Full information on Hot Springs Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives and other easy vacation activities. along the Buffalo National River on its way to Harrison. 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.