10 Best Scenic Spots in Arkansas
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It doesn't take long for visitors to Arkansas to discover why it's called the Natural State, with all its lakes, rivers, and mountains. In fact, the state is so rich in natural resources that it is the only place in the entire United States that could be completely self-sufficient if its borders were closed. Fortunately, such a closure of the border is unlikely, and anyone can explore the forests and bodies of water, which are so abundant in the region. To start your own trip to Arkansas, try one of these favorite scenic routes as a starting point to see the state in all its glory:
No. 10 – Caddo Gap
Start Location: Glenwood, Arkansas
Final location: Sulfur Springs, Arkansas
Length: Mile 216
Best driving season: All
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Passing through the mountains of Cristal, Caddo and Cossato, travelers have ample opportunities to stop at the observation decks and enjoy the views. Stop at Caddo Gap to rent a canoe and explore the Caddo River, which is full of smallmouth bass and other finned creatures. At the Albert Pike Recreation Area, athletes can hike one of the steep hiking trails or go rock climbing.
No. 9 - Two mountain paths
Start Location: Mountain House, AR
Final location: Mountain View, AR
Length: Mile 48
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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Passing through the hills along the White River, famous throughout the state for its excellent trout fishing, this trip starts in one mountain town and ends in another. The Blanchard Springs Caverns attract many visitors to the area and offer underground cave tours with stunning formations. There are plenty of water activities on Norfork Lake, from swimming to warm-weather boating.
No. 8 - Capital at Holla Bend
Start Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
Final location: Holla Bend, AR
Length: Mile 96
Best driving season: All
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This leisurely route from the capital of Arkansas to Halla Bend National Wildlife Refuge extends from the eastern Ouachita Mountains to the Arkansas River Valley. Stop at Pinnacle Mountain to see the city spread out below, and hike a trail or two. At Holla Bend, explore the backwaters to see bald cypresses and maybe even see an alligator in its natural habitat.
№ 7 – Mount Magazine Scenic Byway
Start Location: Little John, AR
Final location: Magazine, AR
Length: Mile 49
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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This alleyway between Petite Jean State Park and the Mount Magazine store has no shortage of scenic views as it ascends and returns to the Arkansas River Valley. Nearby is the Post Familie winery, which offers guided tours of its facilities and samples. In Petit Jean, don't miss the hiking trail to Cedar Falls and the Blue Hole, where many visitors enjoy a refreshing swim during the summer months.
No. 6 - Crystal Path
Start Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas
Final location: Page, OK
Length: Mile 100
Best driving season: All
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This trip through the Ouachita Mountains is suitable for a full day or weekend trip. Nature lovers will be delighted by the wide variety of flora and fauna, and hiking trails are always nearby. Stop at Mount Ida to dig up crystals to keep as souvenirs, or hike up Mount Hickory Nat for a bird's eye view of Lake Ouachita.
No. 5 - Buffalo Hills
Start Location: Harrison, Arkansas
Final location: Jasper, AR
Length: Mile 41
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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Although this path is relatively short, it can be covered in about an hour non-stop, and the terrain along this path is quite diverse. From plateaus to high mountains, travelers will never get bored of the view. The Buffalo River is the area's main attraction, famous for its challenging kayaking and canoeing.
No. 4 - Pig trail
Start Location: Ozark, Arkansas
Final location: Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Length: Mile 81
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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This beautiful drive runs through the Boston Mountains at one of the highest elevations - up to 1,500 feet - in the state. The landscape is full of cliffs formed by sandstone bedrock, and local shortleaf pines grow on many slopes. Camping and hiking opportunities pop up at almost every turn, and many travelers stay at the Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, which is rumored to be a hotbed of ghost activity.
No. 3 – Lake Shiko Loop
Start Location: Lake Village, AR
Final location: Lake Village, AR
Length: Mile 22
Best driving season: All
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This route circles a large portion of Sheekote Lake, the largest oxbow lake in the United States and the largest natural lake in Arkansas, through farmland, dams, and walnut groves. Stop to toss your hook and line into the water and anglers can be rewarded with crappie, snapper or catfish. In Lake Village, don't miss the 1850s Greek Revival house on Lakeport Plantation, which has been converted into a museum dedicated to local history.
No. 2 - Talimena Scenic Drive
Start Location: Mena, AR
Final location: Rich Mountain, AR
Length: Mile 17
Best driving season: All
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This section of the Talimena Scenic Road, which actually stretches all the way to Talihina, Oklahoma, is perfect for spending an hour or two enjoying the natural beauty of the region. The route passes through the heart of the Ouachita National Forest, which is known for its dense vegetation and abundant wildlife. On the border of Arkansas and Oklahoma, the Rich Mountain Tower offers the public a panoramic view from 2,681 feet.
No. 1 - Scenic Highway 7.
Start Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas
Final location: Harrison, Arkansas
Length: Mile 157
Best driving season: All
View this drive on Google Maps
Winding through mountains with forests full of pines and hardwoods, Scenic 7 offers unparalleled views of a natural state. It begins in the Hot Springs National Park, known for its healing waters, pristine lakes and vibrant historic downtown. When in Harrison, don't miss the restored Lyric Theater or the chance to sample the seasonal fruits and vegetables grown at the Fenton Berry Farm.
