scenic drives near hot springs, arkansas
West Mountain Scenic Drive. 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. Fully submerge yourself in the thermal water and let your worries melt away. There are several scenic pull outs to stop and look at. 10 Zip Line Zip Tour (1.5 hours) 536. Click the Add to Road Trip above to start planning your next road trip. Need to visit Arkansas please advise best places to see & do. 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. Just the sight of the soaring gliders is incredible. Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours. Throughout the entire stretch, you will witness a plethora of splendid sights so you better keep your camera ready. Using your free account, simply sign in and select My Drives. The Rotary Ann Overlook (V2) features an endless view of the jagged Ozark Mountains and is an excellent location for a picnic. Continue to Mobile Site 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. Where to stay by the Crater od Diamonds State Park. We drove from Hot Springs north to Harrison in Route 7. Camping and RV hookups are available. 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. The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of . 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 . Once on top of the ridgeline, the curves Copyright 1997 - 2023 The Go Travel Sites. Is it still enjoyable in the extreme heat? Photos (675) Directions. Use our free Road Trip Planner to completely plan your adventure. Love Arkansas? Try this 69.6-mile point-to-point trail near Dardanelle, Arkansas. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of the coolest sights in the state. We would have loved to visit some tourist attractions, but by and large, they were not open during this time of year. lodging, boat rentals, bait, tackle, snacks and more. If youre from Hot Springs, then this is one pretty drive youve already seen and done; however, travelers can easily overlook this underappreciated tour. and the Ozark National Forest, and passes through the mountain town of Jasper getting a good plate of inexpensive food. 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. 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 park has a small fee which is covered by the America the Beautiful Pass. The full address for this home is 1322 Lakeshore Drive Apartment 113 ac +/-, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913. Turn around if you have to like we did. Preview trail Scenic driving Forest Paved Views Wildflowers Wildlife Description along the Buffalo National River on its way to Harrison. Gods beauty but keep your eyes on the road. Copyright 2023 Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, A Public Treasure: The Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge. When Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). The road winds through the mountains, and there are cute gift shops and a couple of restaurants along the way. Top ways to experience nearby attractions. 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. AR 7 reaches Pelsor, it begins its descent into the Arkansas River Valley at Along with the stunning natural beauty, the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1933 and 1938 is outstanding. Two Mountain Way runs along White River, an extremely popular point for trout fishing. The scenery is densely forested land with scenic overlooks that seem to go forever. Was meant to be a bike trip but am now worried about the weather. Bring a flashlight for the cave. Where to stop between Memphis and Little Rock? 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! On the way back, stop at the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge (A2) which protects 7,000 acres of bottomland hardwoods and wetlands. Start in Arkansass capital city of Little Rock for this trip, and travel 96 miles along the edge of the Ouachita National Forest up to Holla Bend, Arkansas. Commencing in Lake Village, this drive covers a stretch of 22 miles (35 kilometers) and is perfect for enjoying the backwoods of this state. 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. Cruise this route and youll see why we chose this spectacular spot. At the summit of West Mountain is an overlook south to the Trap Mountains with Lake Hamilton visible far in the distance. Standard text messaging rates apply. and other retail shops. Spring brings thousands of neotropical songbirds that use the refuge as a rest stop during migration. Now that I live in New York City, I dont driveanywhere. 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. Wonderful way to travel to Branson, MO from Texas! 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. At Hot Springs, the byway journeys through the historic downtown and Arkansas. But we were happy with our short jaunt up the middle of AR, though it does veer west a bit. 3.0 average from 1 vote. 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. Return to Main Site. After passing Mountain Valley (famous for its spring water), consider a side trip on AR-192 to Lake Ouachita State Park (H2). 4. The nameOuachitacomes from Caddo and Choctaw words meaning good hunting grounds, so you know youre bound to see some extraordinary wildlife along this byway! Leave nothing but tire tracks and take nothing but pictures except maybe some quartz. 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. In the 1880s, major league baseball teams began bringing their players to Hot . 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. Actually a collapsed cave, the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks is a wide-valley carved by the Buffalo River. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. 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. We had the time and decided to do the entire byway from Eueka Springs to El Dorado. $66.67. 12. You can send yourself an email as well. Pin These Beautiful Arkansas Scenic Drives for Your Travels! Explore mature pine and hardwood forest via the paved accessible 30-minute interpretive Friendship Trail that begins just behind the ranger station. 7. The Boston Mountains Scenic Loop is formed by two state scenic byways U.S. 71 and Interstate 49. The 4.25-mile moderate trail passes fascinating geologic features on its way up Short Mountain, culminating with panoramic views of the forest. 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. Under this protection, no dams or other obstacles can be built along it, meaning nature takes its course. Pine Bluff is a town full of rich history, so hop out of the oljalopy and explore a bit! Besides the 3 Scenic Byways, #'s 21, 23, and 309 we're planning on driving does anyone have recommendations for other drives? from. From there you can travel up into the beautifully rugged Boston Mountains. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. As these forests remain undeveloped, the views are endless trees, rock cliffs, and rolling hills of the Ouachita Mountains. Length 2.4 miElevation gain 521 ftRoute type Loop. One of the points we liked best was south of Harrison. 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! The only thing that obstructed your view was the fact that the forest had grown up so much. You can also fill your own jugs of fresh hot spring water at a nozzled fountain near the Visitor Center. From the overlook, look 130-feet down the sheer rock walls and take in the views of the surrounding forest and Boston Mountains. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Definitely recommend to people who aren't in a hurry. route). Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum. Or you can continue on the scenic drive in Oklahoma. 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. It remains that way until climbing out of the Little Prepare to be welcomed by refreshing vistas of oak-hickory forests and limestone cliffs. Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. awaits visitors at Jasper. Driving along the Scenic 7 Byway will take you through four of Arkansass distinct natural geographic regions. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through 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 . 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. 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. Our free Road Trip Planner will reverse the route and include the places of interests. There are horse trails that go through the park as well. 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 . Russellville. Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs area are listed below. reflected in the Main Street Harrison Historic Walking Tour, which includes The flavor of the city is The first overlook affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. Just before crossing, the Pruitt Ranger Station (I3) is open from March to September for information. Wax museums are fascinating places to learn about the lives of famous, infamous and extraordinary people from all over the world. Leaving Scenic 7 then gradually changes into smooth, green pastures and the scenic drive comes to an end in Harrison. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. Learn and see some of the 500 elk that make their home along the Buffalo River and other wildlife at the Hilary Jones Wildlife Museum (M1). You will enjoy the trip very much and there are lots side trips along the way. 53 mi. Interstate 49 and U.S. 71, which are often referred to as two scenic byways of Arkansas, form Boston Mountains Scenic Loop. 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. 101 Reserve Street Arkansas. legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. They are nicely spaced apart, with nature making a command performance between. AR Fall foliage will have the hills ablaze with color. The Arkansas portion of Crowleys Ridge Parkway is 198 miles of Eastern Arkansas goodness. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. Heading north on AR-7, you soon enter the Ouachita National Forest. 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. Thank you! 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. Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs area are listed below. . Taking you along AR-5 and AR-201, Two Mountain Way follows the White River, known for its bountiful trout fishing. You may check out the haunted Crescent Hotel nearby. 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. All Rights Reserved and. We have a trip planned end of july-early August. 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. Scenic This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and road biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Searchable list of Hot Springs tour companies, guides and outfitters, rental companies and more. The Arkansas Tourist Information Center (I4) has information on visiting there. With 40 sites right by Gulpha Creek, the Gulpha Gorge Campground is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Park. Not that adventurous? A Hot Springs weather report, historic temperatures and climate info,. Many hikes of varying levels allow the opportunity to explore the incredible and unique geology. It may be one of the most touristy sites in Hot Springs but for good reason. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. Additionally, the Zigzag Mountains is the area known as the recharge zone for the thermal springs. Horn in 1911 and dedicated to superintendent Harry H. Myers. A number of trails, bike rentals, lakes, campsites and cabins make this a great stop. Starting at the St. Francis River near the Missouri border and winding all the way to Helena, Arkansas, Crowleys Ridge Parkway is the perfect way to see Crowleys Ridge and Arkansas delta regions! So many beautiful sites. Feast your eyes on the fabulous views of the city from Pinnacle Mountain. Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information. 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. AR-7 heads over the Little Buffalo River, traveling by limestone and sandstone walls. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. This drive takes longer than the interstate obviously, but it is so well worth it. Drive Otherwise known as The Natural State, Arkansas is considered a natural beauty because of its towering mountains, glistening lakes, and must-visit parks. Altogether, it took about 7 hours. Spot the glistening Arkansas River right before reaching the end of the byway in Webb City, Arkansas. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 31 h 6 min to complete. A 2-mile round trip, this hike is a little more strenuous but well worth the effort. After Jasper, but before you get to Harrison there is the great Buffalo River. Across from the Newton County Courthouse is a legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. Track your favorite scenic drives by selecting those which you want to take and those that you have taken. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 13 min to complete. Download map or text a link to your phone, Jessieville Visitor Information and Ranger Station (I2), Alum Cove Natural Bridge Recreation Area (H10). Beautiful views with vistas and rest stops to take pictures from. The park also features fishing, boating (with rentals), public pool, playground, cabins, camping and visitor center. To visit, from AR-16, turn right onto the gravel Forest Road 28 for 3 miles. 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. Enjoy the drive. Aptly named, this drive will take you over the famed Buffalo River Americas first national river! 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. Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street which is off Central Avenue downtown. in Library Science. 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 folds of the Ouachitas run east-west, which is uncommon for mountain ranges 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. . This 15-mile stretch between White Hall to Pine Bluff greets travelers with handsome delta and beautiful bayou views. 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. We live in east Texas, between Dallas and Texarkana on Int.,30, Is the Arkansas Grand Canyon nearby and is there a cost to drive through the area. In no particular order, and with each route offering a unique landscape, youll want to check out all of these amazing Arkansas scenic byways! Picnic at one of the established picnic areas. 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 Hot Springs We started in Hot Springs and ended in Harrison. The Pig Trail - One of the most scenic drives in the state of Arkansas. We are traveling in October from Harrison, Arkansas on 7 to Little Rock. Just 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." There are several scenic lookouts along the drives as well as some picnic areas. The Boston Mountains Scenic Loop is formed by two state scenic byways - U.S. 71 and Interstate 49. Mount Magazine is where my husband and I exchanged our vows, taking in the overlooks beauty in sheer nuptial bliss. 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. 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. Resorts and marinas are located on the lakes for 1921 near El Dorado. The Automobile Age lay in the future when Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive was laid out in 1886 as a carriage road. If you get hungry, grab a bite at Jo-Jos Catfish Wharf located on the northern side of Mountain View. Stop and enjoy the picture perfect view. 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). It was a lovely, relaxing drive. Sometimes the river floods and sometimes it dries to a mere trickle. 71901, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Get directions from your start address to the beginning of and including this scenic drive. There is also a tunnel on the way and a great shopping spot called Fayetteville. The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is. Heading west, the Talimena Scenic Drive might just be the most iconic trip in the state.