This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Choose either an alternate ending or same as start. The nameOuachitacomes from Caddo and Choctaw words meaning good hunting grounds, so you know youre bound to see some extraordinary wildlife along this byway! From there you can travel up into the beautifully rugged Boston Mountains. History Fangirl is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Spend the Perfect 2 Days in Basel: Itinerary for 48 Hours in Basel + Weekend Tips! Arkansas. Additionally, the Zigzag Mountains is the area known as the recharge zone for the thermal springs. Discover a wondrous world of tumbled moss-covered rock formations, bluffs, a natural bridge, caverns, Cobb Cave, and numerous waterfalls, nestled in lush green forest. Perfect drive way in US. Wild elk herds can be spotted along AR-74, particularly at dawn and dusk. So many beautiful sites. Copyright 1997 - 2023 The Go Travel Sites. Resorts and marinas are located on the lakes for It doesnt matter which direction you are headed to as Arkansas will never run out of amazing destinations to check out. Take advantage of the many pull outs. The real thrill is the abundance of wild animals here such as turkey vultures, eagles, black bears, and more. You can also fill your own jugs of fresh hot spring water at a nozzled fountain near the Visitor Center. 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. 290 miles. 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. What is the most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas? sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." View Artist-In-Residence artwork at the Ozark Bathhouse. Searchable listings of Hot Springs hotels, motels, resorts, bed & breakfast, and more. It has a two-way road that leads to the Summit Loop where you will find three overlooks. 1 h 10 mi. Accessible adventure: There are several scenic drives in and near the park, the most popular being the Hot Springs Mountain Drive that leads to the 216-foot lookout tower atop Hot Springs Mountain. 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. Thank you! The short and easy Rock House Cave Trail leads to a deep rock shelter which features early Native American rock paintings. Snap some photos of the regions magnificent waterfowl on your way through! If you love fishing or canoeing, a stop at White River is a must. Very curvy, very steep sides, lots of areas with no shoulders. 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. 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. The trail shares the road with vehicles, so using reflective materials, lights, or flagging is recommended for safety. This spot will hopefully give you a moment of breath catching joy straight from God. 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. Scenic 7 Byway is a nationally recognized riding treasure that traverses almost Encompassing more than 1 million acres, it is made up of two separate forests, the Ozark National Forest and the smaller St. Francis National Forest, each with distinct topography, geology and wildlife. Both of these byways start near my neck of the woods, in Alma, and run up to Fayetteville. Keyword. Scenic Day Trips War Eagle Mill-- From Eureka Springs take Highway 23 South to Highway 12 and follow it to War Eagle Mill. Generally considered an easy route. Looking out from the pagoda is the city of Hot Springs with the Ouachita Mountains out in the distance. The road dances along the hills, delighting with amazing views of mountains and valleys. No matter what route you take, youll be sure to encounter some truly unforgettable views. Many hikes of varying levels allow the opportunity to explore the incredible and unique geology. $66.67. We had the time and decided to do the entire byway from Eueka Springs to El Dorado. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. :) Then go to the Pruitt Ranger Station for info, and park in the picnic area, you will enjoy this little stop very much. Just before crossing, the Pruitt Ranger Station (I3) is open from March to September for information. with five lakes in the region, its also a popular destination for fishing, Crossing the Fourche La Fave River, you exit the Ouachita National Forest. West Mountain Scenic Drive. Richland Creek has several falls that can be bushwacked to. We have a trip planned end of july-early August. Or some special points of interest places, or hikes that aren't too long or strenuous? 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. We are coming to see fall color from Dallas. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. What national parks in Arkansas have scenic driving trails? Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Arkansas. Learn more about the towns history and traditional arts when you head over to Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View. Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud. You may check out the haunted Crescent Hotel nearby. 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. You must drive slower due to all the curves. Happy trails. Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. Wed love to see your photos from the drive or nearby trails in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. There's a lot more to do for those who want to spend more days. What are your favorite scenic drives to take in the fall in Arkansas? While here, you can also check out Calico Rock Museum and Visitor Centre or Printing Press Caf. Enjoy the sunrise, the sunset, fall colors, a moment of peace, and everything in between at any one of these locations. Click here to view all the guides avialable for Arkansas. Caddo Gap is about 15 miles from Mount Ida, Arkansas, and is near the Caddo River, a popular destination for water sport enthusiasts. After passing the impressive Boston Mountains, you cross the Buffalo National River framed again by massive limestone bluffs. 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. 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. Starting Location: Hot Springs, AR Ending Location: Harrison, AR Length: 157 miles Best Season to Drive: All See this drive on Google Maps Winding through the mountains with forests full of pines and hardwoods, Scenic 7 affords unparalleled views of the Natural State. It was a lovely, relaxing drive. Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum. 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. Cotter Trout Dock Guided Trout Fishing Tours. 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. As you approach Pig Trail Falls, you will also find many suitable spots for hiking, camping, and picture-taking here. Beautiful views with vistas and rest stops to take pictures from. Ida, a silver mining city and USAs quartz capital. Reset. Full information on Hot Springs Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives and other easy vacation activities. The Boston Mountains Scenic Loop is formed by two state scenic byways - U.S. 71 and Interstate 49. Restaurant offers a great meal and amazing vistas of the "Grand Canyon of 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. These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. buildings, make up its national historic district. You go over a tiny bridge, but LOOK left! Become an Agent. 2. 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. 1921 near El Dorado. If digging is not your style, they have a fantastic rock shop. Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Arkansas Area. Condos for sale near me; Hot Springs Property Records; AR New Listings; . A few of the most photographed gardens include the Evan Children's Adventure Garden and the Garden of the Pine Wind. Of course, you can still use the full version of Go-Arkansas on your mobile device just as you can on your desktop. Need to visit Arkansas please advise best places to see & do. 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). Branson. We started in Hot Springs and ended in Harrison. Interstate 49 and U.S. 71, which are often referred to as two scenic byways of Arkansas, form Boston Mountains Scenic Loop. Stop for a bite to eat at the Ozark Caf in town, or continue south to view the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. 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. Approaching historic Dardanelle, head west on AR-27 to Mount Nebo State Park (H3), where a drive to the top of Mount Nebo affords dramatic views of the Arkansas River and the Ozark National Forest. 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. Back on AR-7, you soon exit the Ozark National Forest and are welcomed by the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks (V3). Two Mountain Way runs along White River, an extremely popular point for trout fishing. 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. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. Drive the park's scenic mountain roads. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. Beautiful views await, but note some sections of the trail are cliff-hugging, and you must take caution at the top. 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. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Be on the lookout for waterfowl and the characteristic knees of the bald cypress trees along the river. Continuing north on AR-7, the road climbs the hills surrounding Nimrod Lake. 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. Continue to Mobile Site You will find an outcrop of Arkansas Novaculite at the top as well; this rock was used by the Caddo Users note that this is the most impressive scenic drive in all of the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas or Missouri. This scenic drive may be short but its one that every Hot Springs visitor should take! Aptly named, this drive will take you over the famed Buffalo River Americas first national river! 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. Cruise the Ouachita Mountains by way of this Scenic Byway! The first overlook affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Arkansas. At just 22 miles, this loop is the perfect round-trip drive for a quick excursion into Arkansass wilderness. There are horse trails that go through the park as well. Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." 4. To visit, from AR-16, turn right onto the gravel Forest Road 28 for 3 miles. Plan to take this trip in about two months for jaw-dropping foliage colors and cooler temps to enjoy. You can go to the picnic area on the west side of the road or the launch area on the east side. Crystal Dome cave is just 400 feet away and there is a fee to enter one or both with a guided tour. The folds of the Ouachitas run east-west, which is uncommon for mountain ranges Fall foliage will have the hills ablaze with color. Don't miss hiking Lost Valley Trail. Let us know in the comments below! 101 Reserve Street A Scenic You will enjoy the trip very much and there are lots side trips along the way. AR-7 heads over the Little Buffalo River, traveling by limestone and sandstone walls. Arkansas Tourism Arkansas Hotels Arkansas Bed and Breakfast Arkansas Vacation Rentals Arkansas . If you want to soak in naturally heated springs, check out Hot Springs National Park. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. The Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive is more than just a tourist attraction. Get . 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. 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. Recommended. THANKS Ron. Scenic 7 then gradually changes into smooth, green pastures and the scenic drive comes to an end in Harrison. Prepare to be welcomed by refreshing vistas of oak-hickory forests and limestone cliffs. hardwood forests. Is this road suitable for large fifth wheells?We will be coming off of I 40 to go to Branson. It Named one of the cleanest lakes in America, Lake Ouachita is the perfect location for swimming, water skiing, scuba diving and fishing. Pine Bluff is a town full of rich history, so hop out of the oljalopy and explore a bit! You can continue on to North Mountain Loop and then back down to Fountain Street. If you choose a night-driving experience, then you might hear the coyotes howling. 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. 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. #2 - Pea Ridge National Military Battlefield Loop. Along with the stunning natural beauty, the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1933 and 1938 is outstanding. The route was originally intended for carriage rides up the mountain during the late 1800s. 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. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through rolling terrain with dense pine forests and stream valleys with bottomland hardwood forests. With great sweepers, great Scenic views, and beautiful countryside it just can't be beat. 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. 1.8 million acres of stunning landscape spans across central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. Print/PDF map. My car sits idle and the most wildlife I get to see on any given day is the abundance of pigeons in Central Park. In five miles, you enter the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. This route is 54-mile long (87 kilometers) but if you want to stay within the state, then your drive will be of about 18 miles (29 kilometers). Read the sites full Privacy & Disclosure policy here. As you travel north, youll enter the Ouachita Mountains, then pass through to the Arkansas River Valley, and end in the Ozark Mountains. Crystal Trail deserves a day trip or a weekend excursion. If you finish driving the loop and are left longing for more, you can pitch a tent or rent a rustic cabin at the Lake Chicot State Park to take advantage of all this park has to offer. Immensely loved by travelers, Pig Trail was featured on USA Todays list of top 10 motorcycling routes. The roads were in good condition and lots of places to turn off and take photos. Roll down your windows to appreciate the refreshing views while passing through Ouachita National Forest and Ozark National Forest. 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 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. The cities or towns listed have either Food or Services such as gas, pharmacies, etc. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. 95% of travelers recommend this experience. Originally being made of wood in 1877, the tower was rebuilt with steel and an elevator in 1982 with both open and enclosed observation decks. Hello! FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. 7 can be connected to two other Arkansas scenic byways: the West-Northwest mountain ranges along with the Arkansas River Valley before running through the Leave nothing but tire tracks and take nothing but pictures except maybe some quartz. The 57 mile War Eagle Ride takes you to War Eagle Mill, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and Hobbs State Park. Top ways to experience nearby attractions. This drive takes longer than the interstate obviously, but it is so well worth it. Nice getting off of the highwayd and looking at the mountains and valleys. Head up Zig Zag Mountain to the Hot Springs Mountain Overlook (V1), enjoying hairpin curves before being rewarded with unforgettable views from the Hot Springs Mountain tower. The popular trail is wheelchair accessible for the first half-mile, total round-trip is 2-miles. 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!). , Arkansas Tourism Arkansas Hotels Arkansas Guest House Arkansas Holiday Homes Arkansas Holiday . . 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. There is also a tunnel on the way and a great shopping spot called Fayetteville. 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. Have more destinations? In addition to picnic tables is a historic mountain shelter located on the left side of the overlook. Lets head up the mountain to see the grand view. Wax museums are fascinating places to learn about the lives of famous, infamous and extraordinary people from all over the world. immediately in front of the famed Bathhouse Row of Hot Springs National Park. 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. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The driving part took 4 hours. Right before the byway ends, take a break and chill on Arkansas River. 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 drive begins at the intersection of hwy 43 and hwy 74, and travels north to the town of Ponca. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. Send this link to your phone. 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. Eiffel Tower in Arkansas? Copyright 2023 Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, A Public Treasure: The Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge. A 2-mile round trip, this hike is a little more strenuous but well worth the effort. Driving along with Boston Mountains Scenic Loop offers twists and turns of gorgeous views. Turn around if you have to like we did. If youre up for a longer hike, try Hunts Loop Trail that begins near the Iron Springs Recreation Area or the Ouachita Trail trailhead. 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. Please Be watchful for loose gravel and heavily oiled roads which is abundant in Arkansas. 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. It crosses the Ozark and Ouachita Drive slowly and have your binoculars on hand. Preview trail Scenic driving Forest Paved Views Wildflowers Wildlife Description We drove this highway for a whole day. 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. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and road biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Where to stop between Memphis and Little Rock? We drove from Harrison to Hot Springs on the road. within the West Gulf Coastal Plain, a region that saw an oil boom beginning in Horn in 1911 and dedicated to superintendent Harry H. Myers. We recently took 2 full days to drive up Scenic Byway 7, in central Arkansas. 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. Museum and Mystic Caverns. Camping and RV hookups are available. Especially if you can take perfect photos to commemorate the tour! In addition, the town has the Boone County Heritage Museum and Mystic Caverns. The garden contains nearly three miles of trails traversing a diverse mix of botanical landscapes. 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. The park also features fishing, boating (with rentals), public pool, playground, cabins, camping and visitor center. Have you checked this scenic drive off your Hot Springs sights-to-see list? The Boston Mountains Scenic Loop is formed by two state scenic byways U.S. 71 and Interstate 49. Enjoy your trip! They are nicely spaced apart, with nature making a command performance between. Jasper take Arkansas State Highway 74 to Ponca, then 43 to the top of the We enjoyed driving the Scenic 7 Byway. Frequently asked questions about scenic driving trails in Arkansas. Pass through Mt. The Buffalo is hallowed land to Arkansas natives, and a quick trip on this byway will show you precisely why. See if you can catch a glimpse of one of Arkansass secretive black bears, or if youre driving the byway after dark, listen closely to see if you can hear the howl of the coyotes. You can experience the beauty of Hot Springs National Park by driving to one of our six scenic overlooks. 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. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 31 h 6 min to complete. We drove from Hot Springs north to Harrison in Route 7. Located along the ridge of Sugarloaf Mountain is an outcrop of novaculite, now known as Balanced Rock Overlook. READ MORE. Starting and ending in Lake Village, Arkansas, Lake Chicot Loop circumnavigates part of Lake Chicot, the largest natural lake in the state. (There seems to be SO many beautiful drives!) The breezy tour up the mountain is one that perfectly snapshots the beauty of Hot Springs, all without taking more than an hour. Beautiful scenery. Arkansas State Highway 7 from the Louisiana border to Harrison, Arkansas. The only thing that obstructed your view was the fact that the forest had grown up so much. Primitive camping with no facilities at Richland Creek campsite. Bream, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and largemouth bass can be caught in open waters or quiet coves. Starting in one of my all-time favorite towns, Hot Springs, and trailing westward over the state line, this 100-mile excursion is sure to please. Beautiful drive and leaves beginning to turn. 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. and travel through four of the state's varied geographical regions. Cruise this route and youll see why we chose this spectacular spot. Is this road safe to drive in a rented rv (24-26')? Explore a portion of the 196-mile long Ozark Highlands Trail (H9) which can be accessed shortly after the Fairview Campground. Track your favorite scenic drives by selecting those which you want to take and those that you have taken. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! . Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price. Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive Hot Springs Mountain Drive begins at the end of Fountain Street off Central Avenue downtown. 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. Map: http://www.arkansashighways.com/scenic_byways_program/highway7.aspx. 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. Russellville. Spring brings thousands of neotropical songbirds that use the refuge as a rest stop during migration. Herons, bald eagles, egrets nest here and American alligators can be found in the small lakes. One of the best places to picnic in Hot Springs, this overlook hangs higher up on West Mountain overlooking the city of Hot Springs. 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.