Mystic Caverns (A3) is a geologic wonder featuring incredible rock formations, stalactites and the 28-foot pipe organ. Be on the lookout for waterfowl and the characteristic knees of the bald cypress trees along the river. West Mountain Scenic Drive. 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!). Look but don't touch! per adult. Richland Creek has several falls that can be bushwacked to. 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 park has a small fee which is covered by the America the Beautiful Pass. The 4.5-mile Seven Hollows Trail passes a natural stone arch, rock shelters, a box canyon and signs of bluff-dwelling Native Americans. Swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and fishing are enjoyed here. This valley features rich farmland with patches of woodlands. Continuing north on AR-7, the road climbs the hills surrounding Nimrod Lake. This shelter was built in 1924 making it one of the oldest mountain shelters still in use today at Hot Springs National Park. Where is the best town to start the scenic7. Recommended. To request a listing, please fill out the form below and press "Submit.". Buffalo River Valley at Jasper. This There is an abundance of wildlife to see throughout the year, but during the winter months, you can see a lovely variety of migratory birds, river otters, and more. Thanks in advance for any suggestions you have! 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. 4. Meander through the Ouachita National Forest, ascend Arkansass second-highest point, and check out Queen Wilhelmina State Park, all without even unbuckling your seatbelt. Have more destinations? This overlook is located on top of North Mountain overlooking the Zigzag Mountains with a view of Indian Mountain to the right, also know as Silver Mountain. Cotter Trout Dock Guided Trout Fishing Tours. Is this road safe to drive in a rented rv (24-26')? 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 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. What national parks in Arkansas have scenic driving trails? Museum and Mystic Caverns. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. The Arkansas Tourist Information Center (I4) has information on visiting there. Falling water falls is on the right at 2.3 miles, Six Finger falls is at mile 6 on the left. Was meant to be a bike trip but am now worried about the weather. We drove this highway for a whole day. The canyon is just south of Jasper. 1 h 10 mi. 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. Another absolute must-visit point is Mt. Roosevelt Lake is among the most spectacular natural wonders in the Grand Canyon State - but the drive to get there is almost, if not equally, as beautiful. Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. The road is paved so no 4WD is necessary but keep the hairpin turns in mind! To experience the hot springs in a traditional sense, head to Buckstaff Bathhouse to soak and steam away stress and stiff muscles. 16 and 23 are a perfect choice for you. What is "must-see" or "must-do" in Arkansas? Fully submerge yourself in the thermal water and let your worries melt away. 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. Reset. 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. 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. 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." Or some special points of interest places, or hikes that aren't too long or strenuous? In case you get hungry while on the road, drop by The Ohio Club and try out their scrumptious burgers and sandwiches. Hike to the iconic Hawk's Bill Crag. 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 Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of the coolest sights in the state. Click here to add your listing to Go-Arkansas.com, Complete the form below to email this page to a friend or family member's email. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. 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. In Paris, head south on AR-309 for the park. in the U.S. Near Hot Springs, Arkansas - Scenic Drives Byways, Backways, Historic Routes,. 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. Planning to go on a road trip where you can catch a glimpse of Arkansas captivating beauty? 101 Reserve Street To the west of the town is a field of wild tallgrass prairie, much like the midwest. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. Send this link to your phone. This drive takes longer than the interstate obviously, but it is so well worth it. Scenic drives to consider in the Fort Smith area are listed below. 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 Scenic 7 Byway is a wonderful drive, offering travelers the opportunity to see Arkansass diverse landscape! 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. before Scenic 7 sharply twists its way down to Jasper, the Cliff House Inn and 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. 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. No matter what route you take, youll be sure to encounter some truly unforgettable views. The breezy tour up the mountain is one that perfectly snapshots the beauty of Hot Springs, all without taking more than an hour. 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. This is a popular trail for scenic driving, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. Discover a rejuvenating world of untouched natural beauty on these scenic roads. In addition, the town has the Boone County Heritage Museum and Mystic Caverns. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. What are your favorite scenic drives to take in the fall in Arkansas? The short and easy Rock House Cave Trail leads to a deep rock shelter which features early Native American rock paintings. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? Nice roads, nice environment and sceneries perfect for romantic drive, relax drive and fun time outing. THANKS Ron. The first overlook affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. 10 Zip Line Zip Tour (1.5 hours) 536. After passing Blue Springs on AR-7, consider a side-trip heading west on AR-298 to get dirty and dig for crystals at Arrowhead Crystal Mine. The real thrill is the abundance of wild animals here such as turkey vultures, eagles, black bears, and more. Scenic Mountain Drives & Overlooks Non-hikers can drive to the top of Hot Springs and West Mountain summits. You will never feel a shortage of magnificent views here as you enjoy a ride through Petit Jean State Park and the highest mountain of the state, Mount Magazine. Hot Springs Hop Scavenger Hunt. Has anyone stayed at the Harmony Mountain Retreat in Jasper? The panoramic view of the valley below is one you'll never forget. (There seems to be SO many beautiful drives!) 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. Copyright 1997 - 2023 The Go Travel Sites. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Arkansas. Byways, Backways, Historic Routes,. 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. 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. You will pass Wilhelmina State Park with the possibility for something to eat. Across from the Newton County Courthouse is a Although it boasts some of the best views in Arkansas throughout the year, there's something particularly magical about fall. Just the sight of the soaring gliders is incredible. Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours. route). Explore the beauty of the surrounding Ouachita National Forest with a picnic or hike and take in one of the park tours or programs. Hello! Searchable listings of Hot Springs RV parks and campgrounds. The museum is free and kid-friendly with hands-on exhibits. A quaint small town square boasting several antique shops 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. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas Cradled in the 300-million-year-old Ouachita Mountains, the abundant supply of hot water in this scenic region was a staple of local Native American culture for . Choose from a wide variety of day-use areas and overnight accommodations. awaits visitors at Jasper. 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 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. 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. Click the Add to Road Trip above to start planning your next road trip. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Besides the breathtaking Ozark views, you will also be able to stop off at the Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View for some folksy art, music, and education, go trout fishing in the White River, or embrace the chill up your spine at Calico Rocks ghost town the countrys only ghost town within a towntown-ception. Picnic at one of the established picnic areas. Youll also pass through Marble Falls, Arkansas (the town formerly known as Dogpatch), and can see the glorious Marble Falls waterfall. Spend One Perfect Day in the Grand Canyon: Itinerary & Travel Tips. What is nearest place to stay near this scenic byway starting point? If you fancy a wine-tasting tour, check out the largest winery in the state called Post Familie Vineyards. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. more, Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Little Rock by Crazy Dash, Little Rock Scavenger Hunt: Big Fun In Little Rock, Little Rock City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks, Participate in a Fun Scavenger Hunt in Little Rock by Zombie Scavengers, Little Rock City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest, Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Little Rock by 3Quest Challenge, Celebrate with a Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Little Rock with Holly Jolly Hunt. Preview trail Scenic driving Forest Paved Views Wildflowers Wildlife Description 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. As these forests remain undeveloped, the views are endless trees, rock cliffs, and rolling hills of the Ouachita Mountains. Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. Two Mountain Way runs along White River, an extremely popular point for trout fishing. Learn more about the towns history and traditional arts when you head over to Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View. Enjoy the sunrise, the sunset, fall colors, a moment of peace, and everything in between at any one of these locations. The Mount Magazine Scenic Byway takes you through 25 miles of the Ozark National Forest, then unfolding to showcase the states archetypal agricultural land. 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. One of the best places to picnic in Hot Springs, this overlook hangs higher up on West Mountain overlooking the city of Hot Springs. We would have loved to visit some tourist attractions, but by and large, they were not open during this time of year. 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. You may check out the haunted Crescent Hotel nearby. we are heading that way soon. Arguably Need to visit Arkansas please advise best places to see & do. Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). resort town is known for its thermal waters from which it gets its name, and 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. boating and water sports. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 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. At the top of Hot Springs Mountain is the 10 story Hot Springs Tower with an observation deck at the top. Arkansas State Highway 7 from the Louisiana border to Harrison, Arkansas. Head out on this 4.7-mile point-to-point trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Many hikes of varying levels allow the opportunity to explore the incredible and unique geology. from. Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street off Central Avenue downtown. Yes, you read it right. 7 begins in the Ozarks near the shores of Bull Shoals Lake. 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. I have seen pictures and they provide color much more abundantly than I ever imagined they would. The varied colors of the foliage look simply magical. Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum. There are horse trails that go through the park as well. Bream, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and largemouth bass can be caught in open waters or quiet coves. 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. 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. Hot Springs National Park is home to 2 scenic driving trails with an average 4.3 star rating from 271 community reviews. Oklahoma City to Hot Springs, how far is callaham hotel from the train station, Little Rock to Eureka Springs scenic route, One Day in Ozark-St. Francis National Forest / Buffalo River. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through rolling terrain with dense pine forests and stream valleys with bottomland hardwood forests. The only thing that obstructed your view was the fact that the forest had grown up so much. West Mountain Drive has entrances on Prospect Avenue and Whittington Avenue. 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. Great area to enjoy. The duration is an estimate of a one-way drive and does not include any stops or side-trips. Located along the ridge of Sugarloaf Mountain is an outcrop of novaculite, now known as Balanced Rock Overlook. Leaving Mount Magazine is where my husband and I exchanged our vows, taking in the overlooks beauty in sheer nuptial bliss. Length 2.4 miElevation gain 521 ftRoute type Loop. Starting and ending in Lake Village, Arkansas, Lake Chicot Loop circumnavigates part of Lake Chicot, the largest natural lake in the state. Easy 4.5 (935) Hot Springs National Park. The boyhood town of President Bill Clinton, Hot Springs features splendid Victorian architecture, and a downtown lined with historic buildings. Now that I live in New York City, I dont driveanywhere. Leave nothing but tire tracks and take nothing but pictures except maybe some quartz. with five lakes in the region, its also a popular destination for fishing, Frequently asked questions about scenic driving trails in Arkansas. For a quick trip, hop on the Buffalo Hills Scenic drive, a 19-mile section of Scenic 7 Byway, which will take you from Harrison to Jasper. Click the Add to Road Trip above to start planning your next road trip. 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. It can be hiked, biked, or auto-toured at proper times for a small fee. 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? (HSBOR) Vacant land located at 1322 Lakeshore Dr Unit 1.13 ac +/-, Hot Springs, AR 71913 sold for $24,900 on Feb 12, 2021. . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. Both of these byways start near my neck of the woods, in Alma, and run up to Fayetteville. A quaint small town square boasting several antique shops awaits visitors at Jasper. Crystal Trail deserves a day trip or a weekend excursion. Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street which is off Central Avenue downtown. A motorcycle tour on the Arkansas Scenic 7 Byway Copyright 2023 Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, A Public Treasure: The Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge, Arkansass Historic Connection to the Watergate Scandal. 5. Or should we take 40 at Russellville to Little Rock? Print Directions. A leisurely drive awaits you on this scenic excursion of about 96 miles (154 kilometers) that starts from the states capital called Little Rock to Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge. 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. The trail shares the road with vehicles, so using reflective materials, lights, or flagging is recommended for safety. Scenic 7 Byway (Arkansas) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go, Hotels with Military Discounts in Arkansas, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Arkansas, Allswell Communities Holiday Parks - parent brand in Arkansas, The Ultimate Water Experience in Miami with Drinks and Jet Skis, Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour with Gourmet Lunch by Chef Ducasse, Pisa and Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence by Train, Glaciers Full Day Sightseeing Cruise on board 'Maria Turquesa', Tour of Flanders World War I Battlefields from Brussels, New York City (NYC) Limo Tour - Stretch Limo, Private SUV And Luxury Van, Full-Day Guided Trip to The Grand Canyon from Phoenix, Maui Magical Waterfall and Jungle Tour (Road to Hana), Sapanca Lake & Masukiye Zoo Tour with Lunch. It's a beautiful scenic drive. 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 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. Pig Trail Scenic Byway - a U.S. Forest Service-selected drive with a name as colorful as the scenery. 1.8 million acres of stunning landscape spans across central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. Make a quick visit to Hickory Nut Mountain where you can enjoy delightful views of Ouachita Lake. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Wonderful way to travel to Branson, MO from Texas! The scenery is densely forested land with scenic overlooks that seem to go forever. Heading north on AR-7 from Centerville, hills of soybean and grain create a quilt of color far into the distance. lodging, boat rentals, bait, tackle, snacks and more. Seven miles from Hot Springs, turn left to remain on AR-7. Read the sites full Privacy & Disclosure policy here. It doesnt matter which direction you are headed to as Arkansas will never run out of amazing destinations to check out. Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. Then pack your snacks for the road and buckle up for the 261-mile West-Northwest Scenic Byway! Continuing north for 10 miles, the forest opens up to grand views. Downtown Harrison also embraces restaurants, an art gallery, antique stores, and other retail shops. The spectacular 95-foot cascade of Cedar Falls can be experienced by hiking the popular Cedar Falls Trail. Explore art galleries, antique shops, dining and nightlife. 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. one of the most scenic drives in America, the route begins on the south end Just The folds of the Ouachitas run east-west, which is uncommon for mountain ranges Beautiful scenery. 290 miles. Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). The dam was built in 1942 to control flooding along the Fourche La Fave River and created Nimrod Lake. In no particular order, and with each route offering a unique landscape, youll want to check out all of these amazing Arkansas scenic byways! Discover a wondrous world of tumbled moss-covered rock formations, bluffs, a natural bridge, caverns, Cobb Cave, and numerous waterfalls, nestled in lush green forest. This byway passes through ten U.S. states, with the Arkansas portion of the journey will take you straight down through Eastern Arkansas. Access to the river is right there, by foot. Become an Agent. Pack your hiking boots if youre in the mood to hop and explore the abundance of trails along this journey. brick storefronts that line the Harrison square, which with a few adjacent 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. 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! We are traveling in October from Harrison, Arkansas on 7 to Little Rock. Photos (675) Directions. These 10 best scenic drives in Arkansas, USA, can be a great way to explore the diverse and treasured corners of the state. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. Search Vrbo for the best Holiday Homes & Rentals, Top 9 All-Inclusive Resorts In Maine, USA - Updated 2023, 14 Best Cabins With Hot Tub In Arkansas - Updated 2023, 24 Best Cabins With Hot Tub In Maine - Updated 2023, 4 Most Scenic Train Rides In Arkansas, The USA, Top 10 Scenic Drives In And Around San Francisco, California, Restaurants With A View In Newport Beach, California, USA, Top 10 Stayz Accommodations In Albany, Australia, Top 9 Stayz Accommodations In Avoca Beach, Australia, Top 10 French Restaurants In London, England. Crowley's Ridge National Scenic Byway 2 Scenic Drives By maldenmusic The grave site of local legend (and my gr gr uncle!) Buckle up and explore north-central Arkansas through Sylamore Scenic Byway. Along with the stunning natural beauty, the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1933 and 1938 is outstanding. As you approach Pig Trail Falls, you will also find many suitable spots for hiking, camping, and picture-taking here. Other attractive stops here include the underground caves at Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, Calico Rock, and Norfork Lake.