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. 12. Hot Springs National Park - Camping & Hiking | Scenic Pathways OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and fishing are enjoyed here. Mount Magazine is where my husband and I exchanged our vows, taking in the overlooks beauty in sheer nuptial bliss. A summary of what Hot Springs has to offer. Another absolute must-visit point is Mt. View Artist-In-Residence artwork at the Ozark Bathhouse. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. Otherwise known as The Natural State, Arkansas is considered a natural beauty because of its towering mountains, glistening lakes, and must-visit parks. It One of the best places to picnic in Hot Springs, this overlook hangs higher up on West Mountain overlooking the city of Hot Springs. Hike to the iconic Hawk's Bill Crag. The Arkansas portion of Crowleys Ridge Parkway is 198 miles of Eastern Arkansas goodness. and the Ozark National Forest, and passes through the mountain town of Jasper Or some special points of interest places, or hikes that aren't too long or strenuous? 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 The Buffalo is hallowed land to Arkansas natives, and a quick trip on this byway will show you precisely why. But we were happy with our short jaunt up the middle of AR, though it does veer west a bit. 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. Not recommended for young children. 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. 53 mi. isnt very wide, for soon you will climb into the foothills of the Ouachitas. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through This is a very popular area for scenic driving, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. . The caves and caverns of the area, alongside of Highway 7, sound beautiful. This drive is a real gem! We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs to take in the Ouachita Mtns. 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 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. Fall Foliage Drives And Destinations | Arkansas.com Scenic 7: Among the Most Scenic Drives in AmericaRoute: See our full. Fall foliage will have the hills ablaze with color. 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. 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. 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. All Arkansas Novaculite is found within a 50-mile radius of Hot Springs, drawing Native Americans from all over to this location. We drove from Harrison to Hot Springs on the road. Once on top of the ridgeline, the curves You see all sorts of environments: farm, field, forest, mountain, meadow, river/stream/pond/lake. Other attractive stops here include the underground caves at Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, Calico Rock, and Norfork Lake. Now that I live in New York City, I dont driveanywhere. West Mountain Drive has entrances on Prospect Avenue and Whittington Avenue. 290 miles. This 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. A road adventure offers limitless opportunities in terms of exploring your desired destination, and Arkansas is one such incredible place where even the shortest drive is a treat. Garven Woodland Gardens, Hot Springs Tulips at Garvan Woodland Gardens These beautiful gardens encompass 210 manicured acres on the shoreline of Lake Hamilton near Hot Springs. We are traveling in October from Harrison, Arkansas on 7 to Little Rock. After Jasper, but before you get to Harrison there is the great Buffalo River. After passing the impressive Boston Mountains, you cross the Buffalo National River framed again by massive limestone bluffs. 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. Become an Agent. This 15-mile stretch between White Hall to Pine Bluff greets travelers with handsome delta and beautiful bayou views. Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. (HSBOR) Vacant land located at 1322 Lakeshore Dr Unit 1.13 ac +/-, Hot Springs, AR 71913 sold for $24,900 on Feb 12, 2021. . AR 7 reaches Pelsor, it begins its descent into the Arkansas River Valley at It remains that way until climbing out of the Little The most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas is, Pea Ridge National Military Battlefield Loop. The road winds through the mountains, and there are cute gift shops and a couple of restaurants along the way. (Husband is recovering from torn tendon surgery.) Top 10 Scenic Drives in Arkansas | YourMechanic Advice Fall foliage will have the hills ablaze with color. 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. Need to visit Arkansas please advise best places to see & do. Planning to go on a road trip where you can catch a glimpse of Arkansas captivating beauty? The Automobile Age lay in the future when Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive was laid out in 1886 as a carriage road. One Perfect Day in Waterton Lakes National Park: Itinerary & Travel Tips. The Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive is more than just a tourist attraction. 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. Ida, a silver mining city and USAs quartz capital. Pit toilet and picknic tables, fire rings. Branson. Get directions from your start address to the beginning of and including this scenic drive. It has a two-way road that leads to the Summit Loop where you will find three overlooks. Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud. 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! The short and easy Rock House Cave Trail leads to a deep rock shelter which features early Native American rock paintings. Mystic Caverns (A3) is a geologic wonder featuring incredible rock formations, stalactites and the 28-foot pipe organ. $66.67. 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. Ida, an old silver mining town and the quartz capital of the United States! Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the Scenic 7 Byway South: Russellville to Hot Springs Be on the lookout for waterfowl and the characteristic knees of the bald cypress trees along the river. 101 Reserve Street the Ozarks." Heading west, the Talimena Scenic Drive might just be the most iconic trip in the state. Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). Is this road suitable for large fifth wheells?We will be coming off of I 40 to go to Branson. Hot Springs National Park is home to 2 scenic driving trails with an average 4.3 star rating from 266 community reviews. We'd love to have your business listed on our site. West Mountain Drive has entrances on Prospect Avenue and Whittington Avenue. 5. The folds of the Ouachitas run east-west, which is uncommon for mountain ranges It runs along Northwest Arkansas and Arkansas River Valley. Arkansas's largest lake, Lake Ouachita offers 40,000 acres of clear, clean water surrounded by the scenic Ouachita National Forest. 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. Use our free Road Trip Planner to completely plan your adventure. 15 Best Things to Do in Hot Springs (Arkansas) From the overlook, look 130-feet down the sheer rock walls and take in the views of the surrounding forest and Boston Mountains. To request a listing, please fill out the form below and press "Submit.". Fully submerge yourself in the thermal water and let your worries melt away. Please Be watchful for loose gravel and heavily oiled roads which is abundant in Arkansas. Buckle up and explore north-central Arkansas through Sylamore Scenic Byway. 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. 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. It's one of those attractions that everyone needs to do at least once. From wildlife watching to the extreme adventure, Mount Magazine is the only place in Arkansas which features rock climbing, rappelling and hang gliding. Horn in 1911 and dedicated to superintendent Harry H. Myers. Cruise this route and youll see why we chose this spectacular spot. If you wish to explore more around this loop, go camping or rent a cottage at Lake Chicot State Park. The duration is an estimate of a one-way drive and does not include any stops or side-trips. Primitive camping with no facilities at Richland Creek campsite. 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. With great sweepers, great Scenic views, and beautiful countryside it just can't be beat. Eureka Springs. If you love fishing or canoeing, a stop at White River is a must. The park has a small fee which is covered by the America the Beautiful Pass. There are a few small towns along the way, and you won't need to worry about necessities. Lets head up the mountain to see the grand view. reflected in the Main Street Harrison Historic Walking Tour, which includes 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. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. The canyon is just south of Jasper. Have more destinations? This byway passes through ten U.S. states, with the Arkansas portion of the journey will take you straight down through Eastern Arkansas. Photos (675) Directions. Love Arkansas? 2023 Best 10 Scenic Driving Trails in Arkansas | AllTrails Searchable listings of Hot Springs hotels, motels, resorts, bed & breakfast, and more. Explore the beauty of the surrounding Ouachita National Forest with a picnic or hike and take in one of the park tours or programs. 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. south of Harrison, it becomes a tightly wound and challenging road, but still 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 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! Drive Scenic Byway 7 in Arkansas, the state's first state-designated scenic byway, and travel through four of the state's varied geographical regions. Your first stop is South Arkansas Arboretum, a wonderfully maintained botanical garden. If Winter is not mentioned, the road may be closed during the winter. Arguably To visit, from AR-16, turn right onto the gravel Forest Road 28 for 3 miles. route). Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. Scenic Mountain Drives & Overlooks Non-hikers can drive to the top of Hot Springs and West Mountain summits. Generally considered an easy route. UP and UP you go, lots of curves, and the scenery is wonderful.. We recently took 2 full days to drive up Scenic Byway 7, in central Arkansas. 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. Arkansas State Highway 7 from the Louisiana border to Harrison, Arkansas. Voyage down the 45-mile Mount Magazine Scenic Byway for breathtaking views from Arkansass highest point. Prepare to be welcomed by refreshing vistas of oak-hickory forests and limestone cliffs. 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? 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. The most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas is Arkansas Highway 7 Scenic Byway with a 4.5-star rating from 7 reviews. The flavor of the city is resort town is known for its thermal waters from which it gets its name, and , Swim in the natural pool or explore the rolling hills and steep rocky bluffs with one of the many hiking trails. Drive the park's scenic mountain roads. immediately in front of the famed Bathhouse Row of Hot Springs National Park. The real thrill is the abundance of wild animals here such as turkey vultures, eagles, black bears, and more. 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. What national parks in Arkansas have scenic driving trails? The drive begins at Fountain Street, just off of Central 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. Buffalo River Valley at Jasper. You can go to the picnic area on the west side of the road or the launch area on the east side. A few of the most photographed gardens include the Evan Children's Adventure Garden and the Garden of the Pine Wind. Map: http://www.arkansashighways.com/scenic_byways_program/highway7.aspx. Explore mature pine and hardwood forest via the paved accessible 30-minute interpretive Friendship Trail that begins just behind the ranger station. Most of this trek lies within the Ouachita National Forest, the oldest and largest National Forest in the South, and takes its travelers through Arkansass Ouachita Mountains. In case you get hungry while on the road, drop by The Ohio Club and try out their scrumptious burgers and sandwiches. The seasons listed are the best seasons for this scenic drive. Copyright 1997 - 2023 The Go Travel Sites. Crossing the Fourche La Fave River, you exit the Ouachita National Forest. Scenic Drives near Hot Springs, Arkansas brick storefronts that line the Harrison square, which with a few adjacent 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. There's a lot more to do for those who want to spend more days. The nameOuachitacomes from Caddo and Choctaw words meaning good hunting grounds, so you know youre bound to see some extraordinary wildlife along this byway! 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. rolling terrain with dense pine forests and stream valleys with bottomland 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. With the charming Mulberry River as a backdrop, breathe in the fresh air as you drive on this lush, forested road that resembles a green tunnel. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? Have a favorite flower? 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. Has anyone stayed at the Harmony Mountain Retreat in Jasper? The Natural State has its noted drives: Scenic 7 Byway in the Ozarks, the Talimena National Scenic Byway in the Ouachitas, Crowley's Ridge National Scenic Parkway in the Delta, the Pig Trail in the Ozarks, and the Great River Road National Scenic Byway in the Delta, just to name a few. the entire state from north to south. Plan to take this trip in about two months for jaw-dropping foliage colors and cooler temps to enjoy. There are several scenic lookouts along the drives as well as some picnic areas. Spring brings thousands of neotropical songbirds that use the refuge as a rest stop during migration. Beautiful drive and leaves beginning to turn. This valley features rich farmland with patches of woodlands. 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. 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR 72110-9362, USA Phone +1 501-727-5441 Web Visit website When it comes to breathtaking state parks, the Natural State doesn't disappoint. . Commencing in Lake Village, this drive covers a stretch of 22 miles (35 kilometers) and is perfect for enjoying the backwoods of this state. Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs area are listed below. 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. 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. Drive Scenic Byway 7 in Arkansas, the state's first state-designated scenic byway, and travel through four of the state's varied geographical regions. Spend the Perfect 2 Days in Basel: Itinerary for 48 Hours in Basel + Weekend Tips! Have you checked this scenic drive off your Hot Springs sights-to-see list? 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. in the U.S. Near The road dances along the hills, delighting with amazing views of mountains and valleys. The Pagoda overlook offers a gorgeous view and fresh mountain air for drivers. Immensely loved by travelers, Pig Trail was featured on USA Todays list of top 10 motorcycling 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. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. Get . Bring a flashlight for the cave. THANKS Ron. 7. We are 40 ft long and 13.5 high. Searchable list of Hot Springs tour companies, guides and outfitters, rental companies and more. Thank you! before Scenic 7 sharply twists its way down to Jasper, the Cliff House Inn and Along with the stunning natural beauty, the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1933 and 1938 is outstanding. There is also a tunnel on the way and a great shopping spot called Fayetteville. 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. we are heading that way soon. Youll also pass through Marble Falls, Arkansas (the town formerly known as Dogpatch), and can see the glorious Marble Falls waterfall. Meander through the Ouachita National Forest, ascend Arkansass second-highest point, and check out Queen Wilhelmina State Park, all without even unbuckling your seatbelt. Join us. 12 Best Hot Springs in the World - Men's Journal 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 . per adult. 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!). This is a popular trail for scenic driving, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Continue to Mobile Site AR 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. Top ways to experience nearby attractions. Scenic Drives near Hot Springs NP, Arkansas To experience the hot springs in a traditional sense, head to Buckstaff Bathhouse to soak and steam away stress and stiff muscles. 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. 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. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 13 min to complete. The Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Arkansas - TripSavvy Take advantage of the many pull outs. We are coming to see fall color from Dallas. Scenic along the Buffalo National River on its way to Harrison. Enjoy your trip! This drive takes longer than the interstate obviously, but it is so well worth it. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and road biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Print Directions. The cities or towns listed have either Food or Services such as gas, pharmacies, etc. Crystal Dome cave is just 400 feet away and there is a fee to enter one or both with a guided tour. Other falls in are in the area. The scenery is densely forested land with scenic overlooks that seem to go forever. :) Then go to the Pruitt Ranger Station for info, and park in the picnic area, you will enjoy this little stop very much. Great views, trails, and other amenities. 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. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. 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). Return to Main Site. Scenic Byway (it intersects in Ola) and the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway (at 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 can experience the beauty of Hot Springs National Park by driving to one of our six scenic overlooks. 1 h 10 mi. If youre from Hot Springs, then this is one pretty drive youve already seen and done; however, travelers can easily overlook this underappreciated tour. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite. We stopped at 3 national forests; one national recreation area; one state park; there are many other state parks along the way. 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. West Mountain Scenic Drive | Map, Guide - Arkansas | AllTrails She is Post Graduate in English (Do a quick search on the following sites). With 40 sites right by Gulpha Creek, the Gulpha Gorge Campground is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Park. We started in Hot Springs and ended in Harrison. Click the Add to Road Trip above to start planning your next road trip. This scenic drive may be short but its one that every Hot Springs visitor should take! Searchable listings of Hot Springs restaurants, bars, diners, and more. The Boston Mountains Scenic Loop is formed by two state scenic byways U.S. 71 and Interstate 49. Very curvy, very steep sides, lots of areas with no shoulders. So many beautiful sites. Send this link to your phone. Richland Creek has several falls that can be bushwacked to. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. Where is the best town to start the scenic7. Recommended. The roads were in good condition and lots of places to turn off and take photos. These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Hot Springs National Park The Greatest American Road Trip 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.
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