. Spring brings thousands of neotropical songbirds that use the refuge as a rest stop during migration. sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." 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. south of Harrison, it becomes a tightly wound and challenging road, but still The 57 mile War Eagle Ride takes you to War Eagle Mill, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and Hobbs State Park. awaits visitors at Jasper. downtown parks, the historic Lyric Theater, the 1909 Boone County courthouse, The drive begins at Fountain Street, just off of Central Avenue. You will pass Wilhelmina State Park with the possibility for something to eat. #2 - Pea Ridge National Military Battlefield Loop. The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015, Last Updated on: 28th January 2022, 03:25 am. Print Directions. Need to visit Arkansas please advise best places to see & do. What better place to start this list than with Arkansass first scenic byway! We drove this highway for a whole day. The roads were in good condition and lots of places to turn off and take photos. A summary of what Hot Springs has to offer. Heading north on AR-7, you soon enter the Ouachita National Forest. Seven miles from Hot Springs, turn left to remain on AR-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. Quaff the elixir at the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. Located on this overlook is the historic Hot Springs Mountain Pagoda, designed by architect J.G. The dam was built in 1942 to control flooding along the Fourche La Fave River and created Nimrod Lake. 53 mi. As these forests remain undeveloped, the views are endless trees, rock cliffs, and rolling hills of the Ouachita Mountains. 5. In no particular order, and with each route offering a unique landscape, youll want to check out all of these amazing Arkansas scenic byways! It remains that way until climbing out of the Little Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. 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. Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs NP area are listed below. The road dances along the hills, delighting with amazing views of mountains and valleys. 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. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! There's also a picnic area nearby if you want to sit and stay for a while. Cruise this route and youll see why we chose this spectacular spot. Explore the beauty of the surrounding Ouachita National Forest with a picnic or hike and take in one of the park tours or programs. One of the things I miss most about living in the Natural State is being able to round up some friends, grab my trusty mutt, hop in the car, and just go for a classic Arkansas scenic drive. Drive slowly and have your binoculars on hand. Arguably 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. within the West Gulf Coastal Plain, a region that saw an oil boom beginning in Bream, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and largemouth bass can be caught in open waters or quiet coves. Although it boasts some of the best views in Arkansas throughout the year, there's something particularly magical about fall. It's a place The nameOuachitacomes from Caddo and Choctaw words meaning good hunting grounds, so you know youre bound to see some extraordinary wildlife along this byway! Otherwise known as The Natural State, Arkansas is considered a natural beauty because of its towering mountains, glistening lakes, and must-visit parks. Fall Foliage Drives And Destinations | Arkansas.com we are heading that way soon. The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is Boston Mountains Scenic Loop Byway with 2,760 m of elevation gain. Primitive camping with no facilities at Richland Creek campsite. 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. 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). Head out on this 3.6-mile loop trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Pit toilet and picknic tables, fire rings. 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. Searchable listings of Hot Springs RV parks and campgrounds. Falling water falls is on the right at 2.3 miles, Six Finger falls is at mile 6 on the left. Scenic Byway 7 in Arkansas, the state's first state-designated scenic byway, Once you reach the end of the road, check out the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge, right off the Arkansas River. getting a good plate of inexpensive food. Stop and enjoy the picture perfect view. 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. Road Trip Itinerary: The Best of the Ozarks - Fodors Travel Guide 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. The Pig Trail - One of the most scenic drives in the state of Arkansas. Eiffel Tower in Arkansas? Picnic at one of the established picnic areas. From wildlife watching to the extreme adventure, Mount Magazine is the only place in Arkansas which features rock climbing, rappelling and hang gliding. 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. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. Other attractive stops here include the underground caves at Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, Calico Rock, and Norfork Lake. The remains of a quartz sandstone cave, the arch can be reached by a short trail, passing rare flowers, including the Frenchs shooting star. With the lush forest forming tunnels overhead, and the Mulberry River rushing by, you may even forget that you are in your car! Ida, an old silver mining town and the quartz capital of the United States! Pack your hiking boots if youre in the mood to hop and explore the abundance of trails along this journey. After passing Mountain Valley (famous for its spring water), consider a side trip on AR-192 to Lake Ouachita State Park (H2). Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours. Your first stop is South Arkansas Arboretum, a wonderfully maintained botanical garden. 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. 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. The trail shares the road with vehicles, so using reflective materials, lights, or flagging is recommended for safety. Fall foliage will have the hills ablaze with color. Bring a flashlight for the cave. All Rights Reserved and. Searchable lists of Hot Springs tourism offices and other helpful government agencies. crystals, and passes by DeGray Lake, home of Arkansas's only resort state park. Immensely loved by travelers, Pig Trail was featured on USA Todays list of top 10 motorcycling routes. In addition, the town has the Boone County Heritage 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. Cruise the Ouachita Mountains by way of this Scenic Byway! Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 49 min to complete. Click the Add to Road Trip above to start planning your next road trip. It has a two-way road that leads to the Summit Loop where you will find three overlooks. This 38-mile long drive (61 kilometers) will take you to the topmost point of Ozark Mountain. Condos for sale near me; Hot Springs Property Records; AR New Listings; . 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. Is this road safe to drive in a rented rv (24-26')? 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. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. 4. 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. Interstate 49 and U.S. 71, which are often referred to as two scenic byways of Arkansas, form Boston Mountains Scenic Loop. At just 22 miles, this loop is the perfect round-trip drive for a quick excursion into Arkansass wilderness. Before leaving Hot Springs, explore the awarding-winning Garvan Woodland Gardens (A1). Map: http://www.arkansashighways.com/scenic_byways_program/highway7.aspx. As you travel north, youll enter the Ouachita Mountains, then pass through to the Arkansas River Valley, and end in the Ozark Mountains. Scenic 7 | Explore Arkansas - myscenicdrives.com This scenic drive may be short but its one that every Hot Springs visitor should take! Across from the Newton County Courthouse is a legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. Wildlife observers and photographers will love the 8-mile Auto Tour which weaves through the refuge offering the chance to spot beavers, bobcats, coyotes, deer as well. Discover a rejuvenating world of untouched natural beauty on these scenic roads. 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! Nice roads, nice environment and sceneries perfect for romantic drive, relax drive and fun time outing. 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! 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. and travel through four of the state's varied geographical regions. From there you can travel up into the beautifully rugged Boston Mountains. AR Herons, bald eagles, egrets nest here and American alligators can be found in the small lakes. 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. Head out on this 4.7-mile point-to-point trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Two Mountain Way runs along White River, an extremely popular point for trout fishing. Frequently asked questions about scenic driving trails in Arkansas. 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. Please Be watchful for loose gravel and heavily oiled roads which is abundant in Arkansas. What is nearest place to stay near this scenic byway starting point? It doesnt matter which direction you are headed to as Arkansas will never run out of amazing destinations to check out. in the U.S. Near Great area to enjoy. Explore the river by taking a side-trip from Jasper on AR-74, where you can rent a kayak or canoe or hike some of the trails. 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. Along with the stunning natural beauty, the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1933 and 1938 is outstanding. Scenic Click here to view all the guides avialable for Arkansas. A birders paradise, over 100 species make their home here. Not that adventurous? 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. Beautiful views await, but note some sections of the trail are cliff-hugging, and you must take caution at the top. 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! Copyright 2023 Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, A Public Treasure: The Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge. Just before crossing, the Pruitt Ranger Station (I3) is open from March to September for information. Let us know in the comments below! Start out by spelunking the Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, then snake through the eastern portion of the Ozark National Forest. Scenic 7 Byway South: Russellville to Hot Springs. 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. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. 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. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. 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 multiple overlooks to stop at and take in the view. where swapping stories over cups of coffee is as important to the locals as West Mountain Trail. dense pine woodlands of southern Arkansas. Once on top of the ridgeline, the curves Arkansas Scenic 7 Byway | Arkansas.com 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. Scenic 7 Byway South: Russellville to Hot Springs Things To Do - Hot Springs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) It was a lovely, relaxing drive. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. Beautiful views with vistas and rest stops to take pictures from. Want a hair-raising experience? Scenic Mountain Drives & Overlooks Non-hikers can drive to the top of Hot Springs and West Mountain summits. Home to top scenic drives in Arkansas, the route starts at the fantastic Hot Springs National Park, passes through Ouachita National Park, and finally, ends at Page in Oklahoma. The flavor of the city is Mount Nebo is also one of two launch sites in Arkansas for hang gliders (the other is Mount Magazine which is just ahead). Transportation companies, driving directions and more for Hot Springs. You can get some excellent shots of the river/waterfall thru the steel crossbeams of the bridge, and it provides a nice juxtaposition. The Rotary Ann Overlook (V2) features an endless view of the jagged Ozark Mountains and is an excellent location for a picnic. 1921 near El Dorado. Arkadelphia, the route enters the Ouachita Mountains, famous for their quartz 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. Swim in the natural pool or explore the rolling hills and steep rocky bluffs with one of the many hiking trails. This shelter was built in 1924 making it one of the oldest mountain shelters still in use today at Hot Springs National Park. one of the most scenic drives in America, the route begins on the south end Another absolute must-visit point is Mt. Using your free account, simply sign in and select My Drives. 7 can be connected to two other Arkansas scenic byways: the West-Northwest At the top of Hot Springs Mountain is the 10 story Hot Springs Tower with an observation deck at the top. The Scenic 7 Byway is a wonderful drive, offering travelers the opportunity to see Arkansass diverse landscape! Horn in 1911 and dedicated to superintendent Harry H. Myers. If Winter is not mentioned, the road may be closed during the winter. We started at Hot Springs, which has many, many places to stay. The Buffalo is hallowed land to Arkansas natives, and a quick trip on this byway will show you precisely why. It's been in the upper 90's/low 100's in the last week or so. Scenic Drives near Hot Springs NP, Arkansas The first overview affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. Send this link to your phone. Roll down your windows to appreciate the refreshing views while passing through Ouachita National Forest and Ozark National Forest. You must drive slower due to all the curves. 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. Get directions from your start address to the beginning of and including this scenic drive. From here, you can hop onto U.S. 270 and travel up to U.S. 71. However, this is a part of it and I enjoyed my day. We would have loved to visit some tourist attractions, but by and large, they were not open during this time of year. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 13 min to complete. . From here, turn left to observe Nimrod Dam and Lake (W1). Meander through the Ouachita National Forest, ascend Arkansass second-highest point, and check out Queen Wilhelmina State Park, all without even unbuckling your seatbelt. Read the sites full Privacy & Disclosure policy here. Get . Scenic Drives, points of interest, in northwest Arkansas - Arkansas 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. 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. (There seems to be SO many beautiful drives!) 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. The folds of the Ouachitas run east-west, which is uncommon for mountain ranges Wax museums are fascinating places to learn about the lives of famous, infamous and extraordinary people from all over the world. Ouachita National Forest (Hot Springs) - Tripadvisor Scenic 7 then gradually changes into smooth, green pastures and the scenic drive comes to an end in Harrison. At Hot Springs, the byway journeys through the historic downtown and Drive the park's scenic mountain roads. 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. The Arkansas portion of Crowleys Ridge Parkway is 198 miles of Eastern Arkansas goodness. There are a few small towns along the way, and you won't need to worry about necessities. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? 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 FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. It can be hiked, biked, or auto-toured at proper times for a small fee. Crystal Dome cave is just 400 feet away and there is a fee to enter one or both with a guided tour. We are coming to see fall color from Dallas. In addition to picnic tables is a historic mountain shelter located on the left side of the overlook. Photos (675) Directions. Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street off Central Avenue downtown. Planning to go on a road trip where you can catch a glimpse of Arkansas captivating beauty? To visit, from AR-16, turn right onto the gravel Forest Road 28 for 3 miles. Scenic Drives, points of interest, in northwest Arkansas - Arkansas This valley features rich farmland with patches of woodlands. This 15-mile stretch between White Hall to Pine Bluff greets travelers with handsome delta and beautiful bayou views. The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of . mountain ranges along with the Arkansas River Valley before running through the The popular trail is wheelchair accessible for the first half-mile, total round-trip is 2-miles. At the summit of West Mountain is an overlook south to the Trap Mountains with Lake Hamilton visible far in the distance. 290 miles. 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. Full information on Hot Springs Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives and other easy vacation activities. Scenic drives to consider in the Fort Smith area are listed below. The museum is free and kid-friendly with hands-on exhibits. The drive begins at Fountain Street, just off of Central Avenue. The full address for this home is 1322 Lakeshore Drive Apartment 113 ac +/-, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913. Prepare to be welcomed by refreshing vistas of oak-hickory forests and limestone cliffs. 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 Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." The 4.5-mile Seven Hollows Trail passes a natural stone arch, rock shelters, a box canyon and signs of bluff-dwelling Native Americans. 71901, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Arkansas Tourism Arkansas Hotels Arkansas Bed and Breakfast Arkansas Vacation Rentals Arkansas . Caddo Gap is about 15 miles from Mount Ida, Arkansas, and is near the Caddo River, a popular destination for water sport enthusiasts. The cities or towns listed have either Food or Services such as gas, pharmacies, etc. Top ways to experience nearby attractions. Enjoy your trip! From the overlook, look 130-feet down the sheer rock walls and take in the views of the surrounding forest and Boston Mountains. If youre up for a longer hike, try Hunts Loop Trail that begins near the Iron Springs Recreation Area or the Ouachita Trail trailhead. Follow the grand Mississippi along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway! Discover this 2.4-mile loop trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. 17 Astounding Arkansas Scenic Drives to Get Out & Explore the Natural State One of the most iconic points along the way is Artists Point that overlooks the beautiful Boston Mountains and is also close to Lake Fort Smith Park. 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. 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.