scenic drives near hot springs, arkansas

Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price. 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. Head out on this 3.6-mile loop trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Especially if you can take perfect photos to commemorate the tour! 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. There is a fee but many awesome specimens have been found here. Along with the stunning natural beauty, the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1933 and 1938 is outstanding. 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. 7. The park is named for the legend of Petit Jean, a French girl who disguised herself as a boy to secretly accompany her love to the New World and this mountain. 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. So many beautiful sites. Fully submerge yourself in the thermal water and let your worries melt away. Download map or text a link to your phone, Jessieville Visitor Information and Ranger Station (I2), Alum Cove Natural Bridge Recreation Area (H10). 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. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. This drive takes longer than the interstate obviously, but it is so well worth it. Preview trail Scenic driving Forest Paved Views Wildflowers Wildlife Description This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. isnt very wide, for soon you will climb into the foothills of the Ouachitas. Sometimes the river floods and sometimes it dries to a mere trickle. Now that I live in New York City, I dont driveanywhere. 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 scenery is densely forested land with scenic overlooks that seem to go forever. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. 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 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. 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. 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. Track your favorite scenic drives by selecting those which you want to take and those that you have taken. The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is. Swim in the natural pool or explore the rolling hills and steep rocky bluffs with one of the many hiking trails. Your first stop is South Arkansas Arboretum, a wonderfully maintained botanical garden. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. 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. Transportation companies, driving directions and more for Hot Springs. 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. Cruise through this classic 37-mile stretch (59 kilometers) via Boston Mountains at an altitude of about 1500 feet (457 meters). Enjoy the sunrise, the sunset, fall colors, a moment of peace, and everything in between at any one of these locations. You can pass by the miniature Eiffel Tower in downtown Paris a close second to the city of lights. The breezy tour up the mountain is one that perfectly snapshots the beauty of Hot Springs, all without taking more than an hour. The park offers full amenities such as boat rentals, cabins and camping. Happy trails. 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. Head up Zig Zag Mountain to the Hot Springs Mountain Overlook, enjoying hairpin curves before being rewarded with unforgettable views from the Hot Springs Mountain tower. Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Arkansas Area. Your first stop is South Arkansas Arboretum, a wonderfully maintained botanical garden. The drive begins at Fountain Street, just off of Central Avenue. 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. Across from the Newton County Courthouse is a legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. Besides the 3 Scenic Byways, #'s 21, 23, and 309 we're planning on driving does anyone have recommendations for other drives? We have a trip planned end of july-early August. One of the points we liked best was south of Harrison. The 4.5-mile Seven Hollows Trail passes a natural stone arch, rock shelters, a box canyon and signs of bluff-dwelling Native Americans. The driving part took 4 hours. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. 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. 3.0 average from 1 vote. About 10 miles She is Post Graduate in English (Do a quick search on the following sites). The canyon is just south of Jasper. and the Ozark National Forest, and passes through the mountain town of Jasper You can continue on to North Mountain Loop and then back down to Fountain Street. Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs NP area are listed below. A 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. Driving along the Scenic 7 Byway will take you through four of Arkansass distinct natural geographic regions. 1.8 million acres of stunning landscape spans across central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. Beautiful drive and leaves beginning to turn. The Boston Mountains Scenic Loop is formed by two state scenic byways U.S. 71 and Interstate 49. Ida, a silver mining city and USAs quartz capital. If you love fishing or canoeing, a stop at White River is a must. AR 7 reaches Pelsor, it begins its descent into the Arkansas River Valley at Scenic drives to consider in the Fort Smith area are listed below. Scenic 7 then gradually changes into smooth, green pastures and the scenic drive comes to an end in Harrison. 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. In a few miles, consider a side trip on AR-16 to the trailhead for Pedestal Rocks (H8), where a 2.2-mile round trip trail brings you to unique geologic formations weather-carved rock pedestals. Access to the river is right there, by foot. This lake is also one of the largest flyways in the United States, so be sure to check it out in the fall and winter for diverse bird watching! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Immensely loved by travelers, Pig Trail was featured on USA Todays list of top 10 motorcycling routes. We started in Hot Springs and ended in Harrison. AR-7 heads over the Little Buffalo River, traveling by limestone and sandstone walls. one of the most scenic drives in America, the route begins on the south end Definitely recommend to people who aren't in a hurry. Our free Road Trip Planner will reverse the route and include the places of interests. 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. You may check out the haunted Crescent Hotel nearby. Don't forget your camera. Get directions from your start address to the beginning of and including this scenic drive. Looking out from the pagoda is the city of Hot Springs with the Ouachita Mountains out in the distance. 4. This We're thinking of staying near the Jasper area but are flexible at this point. It's been in the upper 90's/low 100's in the last week or so. Scenic Meander through the Ouachita National Forest, ascend Arkansass second-highest point, and check out Queen Wilhelmina State Park, all without even unbuckling your seatbelt. The dam was built in 1942 to control flooding along the Fourche La Fave River and created Nimrod Lake. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs to take in the Ouachita Mtns. Hope you enjoy the drive. Have a favorite flower? 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. Frequently asked questions about scenic driving trails in Arkansas. Bring a flashlight for the cave. Pit toilet and picknic tables, fire rings. AR Map: http://www.arkansashighways.com/scenic_byways_program/highway7.aspx. Check out my Balkan Travel Blog + Oklahoma Travel Blog, 17 Magical Things to Do in Arkansas in Winter, 50 Awesome Las Vegas Quotes & Las Vegas Instagram Caption Inspiration, How to Visit Granja Colonia Pencil Museum in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay. It doesnt matter which direction you are headed to as Arkansas will never run out of amazing destinations to check out. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through rolling terrain with dense pine forests and stream valleys with bottomland hardwood forests. Resorts and marinas are located on the lakes for 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. From this overlook is a great aerial view of Bathhouse row and downtown Hot Springs. Aptly named, this drive will take you over the famed Buffalo River Americas first national river! What is the most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas? It's a place Perfect drive way in US. Located along the ridge of Sugarloaf Mountain is an outcrop of novaculite, now known as Balanced Rock Overlook. Interstate 49 and U.S. 71, which are often referred to as two scenic byways of Arkansas, form Boston Mountains Scenic Loop. . 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. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 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. the Ozarks." brick storefronts that line the Harrison square, which with a few adjacent You can continue on to North Mountain Loop and then back down to Fountain Street. With 26 miles of hiking trails in the Park, you can find great views, beautiful forest scenery, and feel like you're not in the City. Head out on this 4.7-mile point-to-point trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. My car sits idle and the most wildlife I get to see on any given day is the abundance of pigeons in Central Park. Has anyone stayed at the Harmony Mountain Retreat in Jasper? Much like the Crowleys Ridge Parkway, the Great River Road transverses the Crowleys Ridge geographical region of the state, as well as parts of the St. Francis National Forest. 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. Did you drive it and how was it. Spot the glistening Arkansas River right before reaching the end of the byway in Webb City, Arkansas. Although it boasts some of the best views in Arkansas throughout the year, there's something particularly magical about fall. Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. 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. This spot will hopefully give you a moment of breath catching joy straight from God. The trip starts at Mena and ends at Rich Mountain where you will get to see Quachita National Forest and Queen Wilhelmina State Park. We are coming to see fall color from Dallas. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. If you have all day or more: Do all of the above. Just before crossing, the Pruitt Ranger Station (I3) is open from March to September for information. south of Harrison, it becomes a tightly wound and challenging road, but still Scenic 7: Among the Most Scenic Drives in AmericaRoute: This will give you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take in the breathtaking views of Arkansas. Roll down your windows to appreciate the refreshing views while passing through Ouachita National Forest and Ozark National Forest. The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is Boston Mountains Scenic Loop Byway with 2,760 m of elevation gain. Continuing north on AR-7, the road climbs the hills surrounding Nimrod Lake. Right before the byway ends, take a break and chill on Arkansas River. 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. Other falls in are in the area. The Pig Trail - One of the most scenic drives in the state of Arkansas. Not recommended for young children. Explore the beauty of the surrounding Ouachita National Forest with a picnic or hike and take in one of the park tours or programs. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. Click the Add to Road Trip above to start planning your next road trip. At Hot Springs, the byway journeys through the historic downtown and immediately in front of the famed Bathhouse Row of Hot Springs National Park. We started at Hot Springs, which has many, many places to stay. You can get some excellent shots of the river/waterfall thru the steel crossbeams of the bridge, and it provides a nice juxtaposition. 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 . 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. Camping and RV hookups are available. There are horse trails that go through the park as well. After Jasper, but before you get to Harrison there is the great Buffalo River. 1 h 10 mi. The Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive is more than just a tourist attraction. 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 With great sweepers, great Scenic views, and beautiful countryside it just can't be beat. The Boston Mountains Scenic Loop is formed by two state scenic byways - U.S. 71 and Interstate 49. Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street off Central Avenue downtown. Searchable list of Hot Springs tour companies, guides and outfitters, rental companies and more. Are you a rock hound? Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? THANKS Ron. crystals, and passes by DeGray Lake, home of Arkansas's only resort state park. It is a beautiful area with a lot of county roads to explore. If you wish to explore more around this loop, go camping or rent a cottage at Lake Chicot State Park. The boyhood town of President Bill Clinton, Hot Springs features splendid Victorian architecture, and a downtown lined with historic buildings. and travel through four of the state's varied geographical regions. We drove from Hot Springs north to Harrison in Route 7. Arkansas Just the sight of the soaring gliders is incredible. It's a beautiful scenic drive. 95% of travelers recommend this experience. There are several scenic lookouts along the drives as well as some picnic areas. Quaff the elixir at the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. Snap some photos of the regions magnificent waterfowl on your way through! Scenic 7 Byway South: Russellville to Hot Springs. This shelter was built in 1924 making it one of the oldest mountain shelters still in use today at Hot Springs National Park. 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. Choose from a wide variety of day-use areas and overnight accommodations. West Mountain Drive has entrances on Prospect Avenue and Whittington Avenue. 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! Thanks! The most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas is, Pea Ridge National Military Battlefield Loop. Copyright 1997 - 2023 The Go Travel Sites. 10 Zip Line Zip Tour (1.5 hours) 536. Join us. Explore a portion of the 196-mile long Ozark Highlands Trail (H9) which can be accessed shortly after the Fairview Campground. The cities or towns listed have either Food or Services such as gas, pharmacies, etc. On the way, stop at the Riverview Recreation Area (H6) for views of the Arkansas River and Lake Dardanelle Dam, as well as more recreational opportunities. Enjoy your trip! 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 folds of the Ouachitas run east-west, which is uncommon for mountain ranges Home Arkansas Scenic Drives and Road Trips. Hike to the iconic Hawk's Bill Crag. As you continue, the forest changes to pasture and farmland. Heading west, the Talimena Scenic Drive might just be the most iconic trip in the state. Shelter houses like the one found here were built to provide visitors with a place to relax and enjoy the view. The first overlook affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital.