See our full. from. Your first stop is South Arkansas Arboretum, a wonderfully maintained botanical garden. Spot the glistening Arkansas River right before reaching the end of the byway in Webb City, Arkansas. One of the most iconic points along the way is Artists Point that overlooks the beautiful Boston Mountains and is also close to Lake Fort Smith Park. Scenic Mountain Drives & Overlooks Non-hikers can drive to the top of Hot Springs and West Mountain summits. Swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and fishing are enjoyed here. So many beautiful sites. Quaff the elixir at the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. Located along the ridge of Sugarloaf Mountain is an outcrop of novaculite, now known as Balanced Rock Overlook. in Library Science. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 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. Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud. Feast your eyes on the fabulous views of the city from Pinnacle Mountain. 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. There are several scenic lookouts along the drives as well as some picnic areas. brick storefronts that line the Harrison square, which with a few adjacent Named one of the cleanest lakes in America, Lake Ouachita is the perfect location for swimming, water skiing, scuba diving and fishing. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? Click the Add to Road Trip above to start planning your next road trip. The flavor of the city is 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. 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. However, this is a part of it and I enjoyed my day. 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. 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. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. Need to visit Arkansas please advise best places to see & do. The most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas is, Pea Ridge National Military Battlefield Loop. Is it still enjoyable in the extreme heat? Where to stay by the Crater od Diamonds State Park. Recommended. The Rotary Ann Overlook (V2) features an endless view of the jagged Ozark Mountains and is an excellent location for a picnic. Arkadelphia, the route enters the Ouachita Mountains, famous for their quartz Picnic at one of the established picnic areas. 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. 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. Under this protection, no dams or other obstacles can be built along it, meaning nature takes its course. Fanstastic rural drive through winding two lane state road. Unsubscribe in one click. Keyword. Read the sites full Privacy & Disclosure policy here. Get . 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. In addition, the town has the Boone County Heritage Museum and Mystic Caverns. Youll also pass through Marble Falls, Arkansas (the town formerly known as Dogpatch), and can see the glorious Marble Falls waterfall. 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. You may check out the haunted Crescent Hotel nearby. 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. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? One of the best places to picnic in Hot Springs, this overlook hangs higher up on West Mountain overlooking the city of Hot Springs. Just 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. Hot Springs weather report, historic temperatures and climate info,. Thank you! Both of these byways start near my neck of the woods, in Alma, and run up to Fayetteville. Hope you enjoy the drive. This is the perfect place to see migratory birds, beavers, and river otters during the winter, and abundant white-tailed deer year-round. Starting in Havana, Arkansas, this scenic byway takes you up through Mount Magazine State Park, and then down through the charming town of Paris, Arkansas. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." We enjoyed driving the Scenic 7 Byway. Scenic 7 then gradually changes into smooth, green pastures and the scenic drive comes to an end in Harrison. The 57 mile War Eagle Ride takes you to War Eagle Mill, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and Hobbs State Park. The road winds through the mountains, and there are cute gift shops and a couple of restaurants along the way. Did you drive it and how was it. little farther north, hanging baskets of flowers and awnings accentuate old You go over a tiny bridge, but LOOK left! Russellville. Our 3-4 day agenda is to just take in the scenery, some smaller hikes, and an ATV rental for day/part day. This drive takes longer than the interstate obviously, but it is so well worth it. Keyword. Preview trail Scenic driving Forest Paved Views Wildflowers Wildlife Description Museum and Mystic Caverns. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through rolling terrain with dense pine forests and stream valleys with bottomland hardwood forests. To visit, from AR-16, turn right onto the gravel Forest Road 28 for 3 miles. Beautiful scenery. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Arkansas. At the summit of West Mountain is an overlook south to the Trap Mountains with Lake Hamilton visible far in the distance. this was an amazing scenic drive! . 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. 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. Scenic drive from Paris, Arkansas to the summit of Mount Magazine State Park. As these forests remain undeveloped, the views are endless trees, rock cliffs, and rolling hills of the Ouachita Mountains. Taking you along AR-5 and AR-201, Two Mountain Way follows the White River, known for its bountiful trout fishing. 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? Bring a flashlight for the cave. Driving along with Boston Mountains Scenic Loop offers twists and turns of gorgeous views. Map: http://www.arkansashighways.com/scenic_byways_program/highway7.aspx. At the top of Hot Springs Mountain is the 10 story Hot Springs Tower with an observation deck at the top. Spend the Perfect 2 Days in Basel: Itinerary for 48 Hours in Basel + Weekend Tips! 1921 near El Dorado. Thanks! Want a hair-raising experience? #2 - Pea Ridge National Military Battlefield Loop. Altogether, it took about 7 hours. Print Directions. Explore the beauty of the surrounding Ouachita National Forest with a picnic or hike and take in one of the park tours or programs. Nothing can beat the thrill of a road journey! Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. 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!). Print/PDF map. If you love fishing or canoeing, a stop at White River is a must. Not that adventurous? I have seen pictures and they provide color much more abundantly than I ever imagined they would. The Arkansas portion of Crowleys Ridge Parkway is 198 miles of Eastern Arkansas goodness. 290 miles. The remains of a quartz sandstone cave, the arch can be reached by a short trail, passing rare flowers, including the Frenchs shooting star. 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. Pack your hiking boots if youre in the mood to hop and explore the abundance of trails along this journey. Prepare to be welcomed by refreshing vistas of oak-hickory forests and limestone cliffs. It crosses the Ozark and Ouachita Heading west, the Talimena Scenic Drive might just be the most iconic trip in the state. Ida, an old silver mining town and the quartz capital of the United States! 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. 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. If you wish to explore more around this loop, go camping or rent a cottage at Lake Chicot State Park. Hot Springs Hop Scavenger Hunt. It has a two-way road that leads to the Summit Loop where you will find three overlooks. Whether you are looking for a day trip or a weekend excursion, a drive to this part of the United States is going to be one for the books. 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. 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. A Arkansas. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Horn in 1911 and dedicated to superintendent Harry H. Myers. Track your favorite scenic drives by selecting those which you want to take and those that you have taken. 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 . 95% of travelers recommend this experience. 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. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. 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. You see all sorts of environments: farm, field, forest, mountain, meadow, river/stream/pond/lake. Across from the Newton County Courthouse is a legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. 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. There are horse trails that go through the park as well. A number of trails, bike rentals, lakes, campsites and cabins make this a great stop. Crowley's Ridge National Scenic Byway 2 Scenic Drives By maldenmusic The grave site of local legend (and my gr gr uncle!) The Buffalo River was the first designated National River in 1972. A quaint small town square boasting several antique shops Of course, make sure you have plenty of time, we had to turn around a few times to attempt this. Arkansas Highway 123 Google Maps This route starts at the intersection of Arkansas Highway 7 and Highway 123 which is about 40 miles north of Russellville, AR in a town called Lurton, AR. Definitely recommend to people who aren't in a hurry. To the west of the town is a field of wild tallgrass prairie, much like the midwest. Take advantage of the many pull outs. This resort town is known for its thermal waters from which it gets its name, and The canyon is just south of Jasper. Actually a collapsed cave, the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks is a wide-valley carved by the Buffalo River. Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs NP area are listed below. After passing Mountain Valley (famous for its spring water), consider a side trip on AR-192 to Lake Ouachita State Park (H2). Explore art galleries, antique shops, dining and nightlife. Was meant to be a bike trip but am now worried about the weather. 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). 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. The spectacular 95-foot cascade of Cedar Falls can be experienced by hiking the popular Cedar Falls Trail. We (and several other cars) went across the bridge and turned around. We're thinking of staying near the Jasper area but are flexible at this point. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and road biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." Explore a portion of the 196-mile long Ozark Highlands Trail (H9) which can be accessed shortly after the Fairview Campground. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. Transportation companies, driving directions and more for Hot Springs. 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. There is also a tunnel on the way and a great shopping spot called Fayetteville. Or you can continue on the scenic drive in Oklahoma. Gods beauty but keep your eyes on the road. In no particular order, and with each route offering a unique landscape, youll want to check out all of these amazing Arkansas scenic byways! 4. No matter what route you take, youll be sure to encounter some truly unforgettable views. 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. 1.8 million acres of stunning landscape spans across central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. 101 Reserve Street It may be one of the most touristy sites in Hot Springs but for good reason. Jasper take Arkansas State Highway 74 to Ponca, then 43 to the top of the The Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway starts in the Ozarks at Clarksville, Arkansas, and leads motorists through 35 miles of striking forest and to the Buffalo National River. Fully submerge yourself in the thermal water and let your worries melt away. AR West Mountain Drive has entrances on Prospect Avenue and Whittington Avenue. We are traveling in October from Harrison, Arkansas on 7 to Little Rock. This shelter was built in 1924 making it one of the oldest mountain shelters still in use today at Hot Springs National Park. Wild elk herds can be spotted along AR-74, particularly at dawn and dusk. Start out by spelunking the Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, then snake through the eastern portion of the Ozark National Forest. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. View the mountains and then bring it on home this scenic drive takes you from Mountain View, Arkansas to Mountain Home, Arkansas, and is 48 miles of not-to-be-missed sightseeing in between! Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. Turn around if you have to like we did. If you fancy a wine-tasting tour, check out the largest winery in the state called Post Familie Vineyards. During the fall, this is one of my familys favorite routes for getting out and into the mountains. The duration is an estimate of a one-way drive and does not include any stops or side-trips. We stopped at 3 national forests; one national recreation area; one state park; there are many other state parks along the way. Yes is in on highway 7 and no there isn't a charge. Is this road safe to drive in a rented rv (24-26')? 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. Arkansas State Highway 7 from the Louisiana border to Harrison, Arkansas. The seasons listed are the best seasons for this scenic drive. On the way back, stop at the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge (A2) which protects 7,000 acres of bottomland hardwoods and wetlands. 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. We started in Hot Springs and ended in Harrison. The park also features fishing, boating (with rentals), public pool, playground, cabins, camping and visitor center. Drive through historic Hot Springs and the glorious Hot Springs National Park and then continue through the Ouachita National Forest to Page, Oklahoma. Buckle up and explore north-central Arkansas through Sylamore Scenic Byway. 10 Zip Line Zip Tour (1.5 hours) 536. My car sits idle and the most wildlife I get to see on any given day is the abundance of pigeons in Central Park. The Pig Trail - One of the most scenic drives in the state of Arkansas. After Jasper, but before you get to Harrison there is the great Buffalo River. The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of . Happy trails. You will pass Wilhelmina State Park with the possibility for something to eat. Hello! buildings, make up its national historic district. and travel through four of the state's varied geographical regions. 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. Beautiful views with vistas and rest stops to take pictures from. While here, you can also check out Calico Rock Museum and Visitor Centre or Printing Press Caf. What better place to start this list than with Arkansass first scenic byway! 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. There are multiple overlooks to stop at and take in the view. As you continue, the forest changes to pasture and farmland. Although it boasts some of the best views in Arkansas throughout the year, there's something particularly magical about fall. Branson. Scenic drives to consider in the Fort Smith area are listed below. Get more stories delivered right to your email. In addition to picnic tables is a historic mountain shelter located on the left side of the overlook. The roads were in good condition and lots of places to turn off and take photos. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. The first overlook affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. 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. This 38-mile long drive (61 kilometers) will take you to the topmost point of Ozark Mountain. The next highest ascent for scenic driving trails is Boston Mountains Scenic Loop Byway with 2,760 m of elevation gain. legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours. Arkansas However its very curvy. Drive the park's scenic mountain roads. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. one of the most scenic drives in America, the route begins on the south end Cruise the Ouachita Mountains by way of this Scenic Byway! The park offers full amenities such as boat rentals, cabins and camping. From this overlook is a great aerial view of Bathhouse row and downtown Hot Springs. The Automobile Age lay in the future when Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive was laid out in 1886 as a carriage road. These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Hot Springs, Arkansas - Scenic Drives Byways, Backways, Historic Routes,. The only thing that obstructed your view was the fact that the forest had grown up so much. Cruise through this classic 37-mile stretch (59 kilometers) via Boston Mountains at an altitude of about 1500 feet (457 meters). Resorts and marinas are located on the lakes for Located on this overlook is the historic Hot Springs Mountain Pagoda, designed by architect J.G. Get directions from your start address to the beginning of and including this scenic drive. There are no places to get fuel. Enjoy the sunrise, the sunset, fall colors, a moment of peace, and everything in between at any one of these locations. 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. Use our free Road Trip Planner to completely plan your adventure. 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. 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. Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information. Besides the 3 Scenic Byways, #'s 21, 23, and 309 we're planning on driving does anyone have recommendations for other drives? Starting at the St. Francis River near the Missouri border and winding all the way to Helena, Arkansas, Crowleys Ridge Parkway is the perfect way to see Crowleys Ridge and Arkansas delta regions! This is a popular trail for scenic driving, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. $66.67. Where is the best town to start the scenic7. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Arkansas. Follow the grand Mississippi along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway! crystals, and passes by DeGray Lake, home of Arkansas's only resort state park. Thanks in advance for any suggestions you have! 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. Easy 4.5 (935) Hot Springs National Park. Yes, you read it right. 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. Otherwise known as The Natural State, Arkansas is considered a natural beauty because of its towering mountains, glistening lakes, and must-visit parks. 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. Across from the Newton County Courthouse is a The highways and byways of the state are great for scenic driving and you may enjoy the best road trips in Arkansas. Scenic 7: Among the Most Scenic Drives in AmericaRoute: Or use the observation tower and foot trails. The first overview affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. 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. This will give you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take in the breathtaking views of Arkansas. 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. Copyright 1997 - 2023 The Go Travel Sites. 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. Any season would be nice, but Winter certainly wasn't the best. Crossing the Fourche La Fave River, you exit the Ouachita National Forest. 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. 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. It Full information on Hot Springs Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives and other easy vacation activities. This 15-mile stretch between White Hall to Pine Bluff greets travelers with handsome delta and beautiful bayou views. Pit toilet and picknic tables, fire rings. Downtown Harrison also embraces restaurants, an art gallery, antique stores, and other retail shops. (HSBOR) Vacant land located at 1322 Lakeshore Dr Unit 1.13 ac +/-, Hot Springs, AR 71913 sold for $24,900 on Feb 12, 2021. . Start in Arkansass capital city of Little Rock for this trip, and travel 96 miles along the edge of the Ouachita National Forest up to Holla Bend, Arkansas. 5. It runs along Northwest Arkansas and Arkansas River Valley. Eiffel Tower in Arkansas? Be on the lookout for waterfowl and the characteristic knees of the bald cypress trees along the river. There's also a picnic area nearby if you want to sit and stay for a while. The flavor of the city is reflected in the Main Street Harrison Historic Walking Tour, which includes downtown parks, the historic Lyric Theater, the 1909 Boone Countycourthouse, the 1914 Boone County Jail, and the completely restored 1929 Hotel Seville. The website features a bloom calendar. Arkansas. 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. There is a fee but many awesome specimens have been found here. Other falls in are in the area. 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. Length 2.4 miElevation gain 521 ftRoute type Loop. If you have all day or more: Do all of the above. The trip starts at Mena and ends at Rich Mountain where you will get to see Quachita National Forest and Queen Wilhelmina State Park. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Hot Springs 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. route). Download map or text a link to your phone, Jessieville Visitor Information and Ranger Station (I2), Alum Cove Natural Bridge Recreation Area (H10).