Unsubscribe in one click. The Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive is more than just a tourist attraction. Drive through historic Hot Springs and the glorious Hot Springs National Park and then continue through the Ouachita National Forest to Page, Oklahoma. 7 can be connected to two other Arkansas scenic byways: the West-Northwest Need to visit Arkansas please advise best places to see & do. in the U.S. Near From this overlook is a great aerial view of Bathhouse row and downtown Hot Springs. The first overlook affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. If digging is not your style, they have a fantastic rock shop. Continue to Mobile Site Scenic 7 Byway South: Russellville to Hot Springs. The thermal water we have today originated as rain water that fell over 4,000 years ago, soaking into these mountains and funneling back up at high speeds and hot temperatures. It has a two-way road that leads to the Summit Loop where you will find three overlooks. manageable by beginners. The lush greenery of late spring and the explosion of fall colors in the valley will give you an excuse to take this drive numerous times throughout the year! 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. All Rights Reserved and. At the top of Hot Springs Mountain is the 10 story Hot Springs Tower with an observation deck at the top. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. (Husband is recovering from torn tendon surgery.) She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite. Home Arkansas Scenic Drives and Road Trips. Mount Magazine is where my husband and I exchanged our vows, taking in the overlooks beauty in sheer nuptial bliss. Across from the Newton County Courthouse is a legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. 53 mi. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 31 h 6 min to complete. 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. 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. The scenery is densely forested land with scenic overlooks that seem to go forever. 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. The Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum on Central Avenue in Hot Springs is one of the unique and quirky places that shouldn't be overlooked when in town. 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. There's a lot more to do for those who want to spend more days. It crosses the Ozark and Ouachita one of the most scenic drives in America, the route begins on the south end Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. 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. 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 . Scenic legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. Arkansas. With so much to see, consider another side trip to Long Pool Recreation Area (H7), along Big Piney Creek. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Arkansas. Hot Springs, Arkansas - Scenic Drives Byways, Backways, Historic Routes,. The trip starts at Mena and ends at Rich Mountain where you will get to see Quachita National Forest and Queen Wilhelmina State Park. The Pig Trail - One of the most scenic drives in the state of Arkansas. Arkadelphia, the route enters the Ouachita Mountains, famous for their quartz Using your free account, simply sign in and select My Drives. buildings, make up its national historic district. 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! What is the most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas? Explore a portion of the 196-mile long Ozark Highlands Trail (H9) which can be accessed shortly after the Fairview Campground. Learn more about the towns history and traditional arts when you head over to Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View. One Perfect Day in Waterton Lakes National Park: Itinerary & Travel Tips. Become an Agent. dense pine woodlands of southern Arkansas. Or you can continue on the scenic drive in Oklahoma. Arkansas's largest lake, Lake Ouachita offers 40,000 acres of clear, clean water surrounded by the scenic Ouachita National Forest. As the name suggests, Two Mountain Way takes you on a spectacular journey of 48 miles (77 kilometers) from Mountain View to Mountain Home in Arkansas. Today, the lake is a haven for water-based recreation, especially fishing for largemouth bass, bream, crappie and catfish. 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. 216 feet above Hot Springs Mountain and 1,256 feet above Sea level is the breathtaking panoramic view of the park and its surrounding countryside. Nothing can beat the thrill of a road journey! 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). To experience the hot springs in a traditional sense, head to Buckstaff Bathhouse to soak and steam away stress and stiff muscles. The full address for this home is 1322 Lakeshore Drive Apartment 113 ac +/-, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913. 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. The drive begins at the intersection of hwy 43 and hwy 74, and travels north to the town of Ponca. 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. If you wish to explore more around this loop, go camping or rent a cottage at Lake Chicot State Park. 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. The short and easy Rock House Cave Trail leads to a deep rock shelter which features early Native American rock paintings. 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. Leave nothing but tire tracks and take nothing but pictures except maybe some quartz. The boyhood town of President Bill Clinton, Hot Springs features splendid Victorian architecture, and a downtown lined with historic buildings. Any season would be nice, but Winter certainly wasn't the best. Once you reach the end of the road, check out the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge, right off the Arkansas River. Shelter houses like the one found here were built to provide visitors with a place to relax and enjoy the view. 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. Hike to the iconic Hawk's Bill Crag. Pin These Beautiful Arkansas Scenic Drives for Your Travels! Drive slowly and have your binoculars on hand. During the fall, this is one of my familys favorite routes for getting out and into the mountains. Please be forewarned that you will have the occasional person who's going 15 miles an hour under the speed limit. The Rotary Ann Overlook (V2) features an endless view of the jagged Ozark Mountains and is an excellent location for a picnic. Drive the park's scenic mountain roads. Look but don't touch! Is the 7 from Russellville to Hot Springs very scenic? and other retail shops. On the way back, stop at the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge (A2) which protects 7,000 acres of bottomland hardwoods and wetlands. 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. What is nearest place to stay near this scenic byway starting point? Structures blend in with the environment such as Mather Lodge, Water Tower and Davies Bridge. 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. Lets head up the mountain to see the grand view. 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. Hot Springs Hop Scavenger Hunt. Arkansas Tourism Arkansas Hotels Arkansas Guest House Arkansas Holiday Homes Arkansas Holiday . Heading north on AR-7, you soon enter the Ouachita National Forest. Grab a bite at one of Little Rocks many incredible local eateries to fuel up for your adventure to Holla Bend. Fifteen miles of Interstate 530 has been designated as a scenic byway, and its no surprise as to why! Mystic Caverns (A3) is a geologic wonder featuring incredible rock formations, stalactites and the 28-foot pipe organ. We started at Hot Springs, which has many, many places to stay. I would say October is the best time to tour Arkansas on your trusted two wheeled steed. While the northern portion is moist, the southern half of the mountain includes cacti. 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. Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs NP area are listed below. Continuing north on AR-7, the road climbs the hills surrounding Nimrod Lake. The road dances along the hills, delighting with amazing views of mountains and valleys. Where to stop between Memphis and Little Rock? The folds of the Ouachitas run east-west, which is uncommon for mountain ranges Eiffel Tower in Arkansas? What is "must-see" or "must-do" in Arkansas? Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs area are listed below. 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! Or use the observation tower and foot trails. Scenic 7: Among the Most Scenic Drives in AmericaRoute: 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. Byways, Backways, Historic Routes,. #2 - Pea Ridge National Military Battlefield Loop. 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. 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. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. Aptly named, this drive will take you over the famed Buffalo River Americas first national river! Spend One Perfect Day in the Grand Canyon: Itinerary & Travel Tips. Try this 69.6-mile point-to-point trail near Dardanelle, Arkansas. Was meant to be a bike trip but am now worried about the weather. To reach it, head west on FR-1801 and then northwest on FR-1804. The driving part took 4 hours. sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." There is also a tunnel on the way and a great shopping spot called Fayetteville. The breezy tour up the mountain is one that perfectly snapshots the beauty of Hot Springs, all without taking more than an hour. 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. This spot will hopefully give you a moment of breath catching joy straight from God. Map: http://www.arkansashighways.com/scenic_byways_program/highway7.aspx. The Springtime Jonquil Festival In Arkansas Thats Unlike Any Other, Spend A Magical Evening Savoring This Wine And Fondue Experience In Arkansas, Arkansas Oldest Drive-In Theater Is Hiding In A Small Town And Youll Want To Visit, Dine At The Historic Spot In Arkansas Where The Legendary Gangster Al Capone Drank Whiskey, This Amazing Mimosa Brunch Spot In Arkansas Will Make Your Morning Epic, Escape To This Hidden Oasis In Arkansas To Find Peace And Quiet, This Candy Store in Arkansas Was Ripped Straight From The Pages Of A Fairytale, Every Spring, Thousands Flock To This Arkansas Town For The World Championship Toad Races. See our full. There's also a picnic area nearby if you want to sit and stay for a while. Be on the lookout for waterfowl and the characteristic knees of the bald cypress trees along the river. If you want to soak in naturally heated springs, check out Hot Springs National Park. Searchable listings of Hot Springs hotels, motels, resorts, bed & breakfast, and more. 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. So fasten your seat belts and explore the best scenic drives in Arkansas, USA. Quaff the elixir at the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. 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. The real thrill is the abundance of wild animals here such as turkey vultures, eagles, black bears, and more. The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of the coolest sights in the state. 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. From here, turn left to observe Nimrod Dam and Lake (W1). 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. One of eight historic buildings that make up Bathhouse Row, The Fordyce was restored in 1989. There are a few small towns along the way, and you won't need to worry about necessities. Before leaving Hot Springs, explore the awarding-winning Garvan Woodland Gardens (A1). Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud. Full information on Hot Springs Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives and other easy vacation activities. 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. 3. 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. Pig Trail Scenic Byway - a U.S. Forest Service-selected drive with a name as colorful as the scenery. Downtown Harrison also embraces restaurants, an art gallery, antique stores, and other retail shops. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs to take in the Ouachita Mtns. 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. The first overview affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Wed love to see your photos from the drive or nearby trails in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. The Buffalo is hallowed land to Arkansas natives, and a quick trip on this byway will show you precisely why. Hot Springs A number of trails, bike rentals, lakes, campsites and cabins make this a great stop. Transportation companies, driving directions and more for Hot Springs. We just rode motorcycles on Hiway 7 from El Dorado to Harrison Arkansas, the road is good, plenty to see lots of curves, stop at the Cliff House just past Jasper have a steak mmm good! Searchable list of Hot Springs tour companies, guides and outfitters, rental companies and more. 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. The nameOuachitacomes from Caddo and Choctaw words meaning good hunting grounds, so you know youre bound to see some extraordinary wildlife along this byway! Plan to take this trip in about two months for jaw-dropping foliage colors and cooler temps to enjoy. Along with the stunning natural beauty, the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1933 and 1938 is outstanding. Explore the beauty of the surrounding Ouachita National Forest with a picnic or hike and take in one of the park tours or programs. The panoramic view of the valley below is one you'll never forget. Buckle up and explore north-central Arkansas through Sylamore Scenic Byway. isnt very wide, for soon you will climb into the foothills of the Ouachitas. Horn in 1911 and dedicated to superintendent Harry H. Myers. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. Scenic drives to consider in the Fort Smith area are listed below. One of the points we liked best was south of Harrison. Wax museums are fascinating places to learn about the lives of famous, infamous and extraordinary people from all over the world. We enjoyed driving the Scenic 7 Byway. The Automobile Age lay in the future when Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive was laid out in 1886 as a carriage road. Youll also pass through Marble Falls, Arkansas (the town formerly known as Dogpatch), and can see the glorious Marble Falls waterfall. 5. The 4.5-mile Seven Hollows Trail passes a natural stone arch, rock shelters, a box canyon and signs of bluff-dwelling Native Americans. To visit, from AR-16, turn right onto the gravel Forest Road 28 for 3 miles. 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. These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. With great sweepers, great Scenic views, and beautiful countryside it just can't be beat. Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). 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 garden contains nearly three miles of trails traversing a diverse mix of botanical landscapes. Want a hair-raising experience? 71901, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. It runs along Northwest Arkansas and Arkansas River Valley. Searchable listings of Hot Springs RV parks and campgrounds. While here, you can also check out Calico Rock Museum and Visitor Centre or Printing Press Caf. Between Mena, AR, and Talihina, OK, the drive offers scenic vistas, historical sites, camping, picnicking, hiking, Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Visitor Information Stations, and Robert S. Kerr Memorial Arboretum and Nature Center and Botanical Area. Scenic 7 Byway is a nationally recognized riding treasure that traverses almost Crystal Trail deserves a day trip or a weekend excursion. The road is paved so no 4WD is necessary but keep the hairpin turns in mind! West Mountain Scenic Drive. My car sits idle and the most wildlife I get to see on any given day is the abundance of pigeons in Central Park. You cross an old, green, iron bridge, over the Buffalo River. It doesnt matter which direction you are headed to as Arkansas will never run out of amazing destinations to check out. Great views, trails, and other amenities. 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). In addition, the town has the Boone County Heritage Museum and Mystic Caverns. The only thing that obstructed your view was the fact that the forest had grown up so much. 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. The road winds through the mountains, and there are cute gift shops and a couple of restaurants along the way. Taking you along AR-5 and AR-201, Two Mountain Way follows the White River, known for its bountiful trout fishing. Samali Basu, a Content Creator with almost a decade's experience, is a former field journalist with a demonstrated history of working with various industries. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. Follow the grand Mississippi along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway! Besides the 3 Scenic Byways, #'s 21, 23, and 309 we're planning on driving does anyone have recommendations for other drives? ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. with five lakes in the region, its also a popular destination for fishing, Print Directions. Bring a flashlight for the cave. Highway 7 travels Arkansass rolling hills, curves through the Ouachita National Forest, Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, Hot Springs National Park, and the first national river, Buffalo National River. Right before the byway ends, take a break and chill on Arkansas River. A 2-mile round trip, this hike is a little more strenuous but well worth the effort. this was an amazing scenic drive! Take advantage of the many pull outs. 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. EXPERIENCE the magnificence of this world and this beautiful state. Heading north on AR-7 from Centerville, hills of soybean and grain create a quilt of color far into the distance. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. Pass through Mt. 290 miles. Condos for sale near me; Hot Springs Property Records; AR New Listings; . Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price. awaits visitors at Jasper. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. little farther north, hanging baskets of flowers and awnings accentuate old Throughout the entire stretch, you will witness a plethora of splendid sights so you better keep your camera ready. From wildlife watching to the extreme adventure, Mount Magazine is the only place in Arkansas which features rock climbing, rappelling and hang gliding. Cotter Trout Dock Guided Trout Fishing Tours. View Artist-In-Residence artwork at the Ozark Bathhouse. The varied colors of the foliage look simply magical. The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is Boston Mountains Scenic Loop Byway with 2,760 m of elevation gain. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 49 min to complete. The popular trail is wheelchair accessible for the first half-mile, total round-trip is 2-miles. Click the Add to Road Trip above to start planning your next road trip. 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. The flavor of the city is The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. Just At a Glance Activities Scenic Driving Amenities We started in Hot Springs and ended in Harrison. Although it boasts some of the best views in Arkansas throughout the year, there's something particularly magical about fall. The 4.25-mile moderate trail passes fascinating geologic features on its way up Short Mountain, culminating with panoramic views of the forest. You can also fill your own jugs of fresh hot spring water at a nozzled fountain near the Visitor Center. The route was originally intended for carriage rides up the mountain during the late 1800s. Immensely loved by travelers, Pig Trail was featured on USA Todays list of top 10 motorcycling routes. Planning to go on a road trip where you can catch a glimpse of Arkansas captivating beauty? You can get some excellent shots of the river/waterfall thru the steel crossbeams of the bridge, and it provides a nice juxtaposition. 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. Print/PDF map. 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! in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. Preview trail Scenic driving Forest Paved Views Wildflowers Wildlife Description Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. 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. Searchable listings of Hot Springs restaurants, bars, diners, and more. Hot Springs weather report, historic temperatures and climate info,. 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 summary of what Hot Springs has to offer. Beautiful drive and leaves beginning to turn. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. Of course, make sure you have plenty of time, we had to turn around a few times to attempt this. Beautiful scenery. This is the perfect place to see migratory birds, beavers, and river otters during the winter, and abundant white-tailed deer year-round. To request a listing, please fill out the form below and press "Submit.". 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. Access to the river is right there, by foot. But we were happy with our short jaunt up the middle of AR, though it does veer west a bit. crystals, and passes by DeGray Lake, home of Arkansas's only resort state park. 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. Perfect drive way in US. Although there is no silver found on the mountain, Indian Mountain is rich in Novaculite which was highly valued by the Native Americans for making tools. The canyon is just south of Jasper. Enjoy the sunrise, the sunset, fall colors, a moment of peace, and everything in between at any one of these locations. Back on AR-7, you soon exit the Ozark National Forest and are welcomed by the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks (V3).