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. Richland Creek has several falls that can be bushwacked to. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Keyword. Caddo Gap is about 15 miles from Mount Ida, Arkansas, and is near the Caddo River, a popular destination for water sport enthusiasts. Searchable listings of Hot Springs RV parks and campgrounds. Spend the Perfect 2 Days in Basel: Itinerary for 48 Hours in Basel + Weekend Tips! 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. West Mountain Drive has entrances on Prospect Avenue and Whittington Avenue. We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. little farther north, hanging baskets of flowers and awnings accentuate old the Ozarks." Or some special points of interest places, or hikes that aren't too long or strenuous? The Boston Mountains are the highest point in the Ozark Mountains, making this byway one of the coolest sights in the state. Hot Springs National Park is home to 2 scenic driving trails with an average 4.3 star rating from 271 community reviews. sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." Choose from a wide variety of day-use areas and overnight accommodations. Ideal for nature lovers, there are several appealing spots on the way. Have a lot of time on your hands? Pig Trail Scenic Byway - a U.S. Forest Service-selected drive with a name as colorful as the scenery. 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. At Hot Springs, the byway journeys through the historic downtown and Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. The 57 mile War Eagle Ride takes you to War Eagle Mill, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and Hobbs State Park. 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. It is a beautiful area with a lot of county roads to explore. The first overview affords a good view of Bathhouse Row and the former Army-Navy Hospital. The driving part took 4 hours. Searchable listings of Hot Springs restaurants, bars, diners, and more. We stopped at 3 national forests; one national recreation area; one state park; there are many other state parks along the way. 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 . Although you can opt for this route any time of the year, Talimena Scenic Drive is specifically gorgeous during fall. Home to top scenic drives in Arkansas, the route starts at the fantastic Hot Springs National Park, passes through Ouachita National Park, and finally, ends at Page in Oklahoma. south of Harrison, it becomes a tightly wound and challenging road, but still I have seen pictures and they provide color much more abundantly than I ever imagined they would. 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. U.S. 71 is 42 miles long and Interstate 49 is 38 miles long. If you choose a night-driving experience, then you might hear the coyotes howling. Drive the valley, Scenic 7 ascends into the Ozark Mountains, famous for fall foliage, The Arkansas Tourist Information Center (I4) has information on visiting there. Beautiful views with vistas and rest stops to take pictures from. Scenic 3.0 average from 1 vote. Other falls in are in the area. Just before crossing, the Pruitt Ranger Station (I3) is open from March to September for information. Drive the park's scenic mountain roads. boating and water sports. Mount Magazine is where my husband and I exchanged our vows, taking in the overlooks beauty in sheer nuptial bliss. You cross an old, green, iron bridge, over the Buffalo River. Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs area are listed below. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 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. 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). Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours. No matter what route you take, youll be sure to encounter some truly unforgettable views. The Scenic 7 Byway is a wonderful drive, offering travelers the opportunity to see Arkansass diverse landscape! You'll receive your first newsletter soon! This byway passes through ten U.S. states, with the Arkansas portion of the journey will take you straight down through Eastern Arkansas. Hot Springs, Arkansas - Scenic Drives Byways, Backways, Historic Routes,. Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles. After Jasper, but before you get to Harrison there is the great Buffalo River. The drive begins at Fountain Street, just off of Central Avenue. To reach it, head west on FR-1801 and then northwest on FR-1804. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. As you travel north, youll enter the Ouachita Mountains, then pass through to the Arkansas River Valley, and end in the Ozark Mountains. While the northern portion is moist, the southern half of the mountain includes cacti. At just 22 miles, this loop is the perfect round-trip drive for a quick excursion into Arkansass wilderness. Located on this overlook is the historic Hot Springs Mountain Pagoda, designed by architect J.G. Arkansas 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. 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. This is a popular trail for scenic driving, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Traveling north, the road becomes twisty and steep, revealing magnificent views with every turn. Hot Springs Using your free account, simply sign in and select My Drives. It See our full. Was meant to be a bike trip but am now worried about the weather. Jasper take Arkansas State Highway 74 to Ponca, then 43 to the top of the Scenic drives to consider in the Fort Smith area are listed below. Great views, trails, and other amenities. 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. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. 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. Heading west, the Talimena Scenic Drive might just be the most iconic trip in the state. The drive begins at Fountain Street, just off of Central Avenue. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 49 min to complete. Searchable lists of Hot Springs tourism offices and other helpful government agencies. There are horse trails that go through the park as well. Both of these byways start near my neck of the woods, in Alma, and run up to Fayetteville. The trail shares the road with vehicles, so using reflective materials, lights, or flagging is recommended for safety. Before leaving Hot Springs, explore the awarding-winning Garvan Woodland Gardens (A1). EXPERIENCE the magnificence of this world and this beautiful state. the entire state from north to south. 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. Beautiful drive and leaves beginning to turn. At a Glance Activities Scenic Driving Amenities West Mountain Scenic Drive. An amateur historian and travel enthusiast, I travel around the world full-time visiting historic sites: hidden chapels, Communist monuments, ancient cities, religious relics, national parks, or any place that is beautiful, interesting, or weird. In addition, the town has the Boone County Heritage Museum and Mystic Caverns. This Since this stone breaks with a predictable cone-shaped fracture, they could easily carve tools into whatever shape and thickness they desired, commonly carving the rock into arrowheads, blades, drills, and other various tool. It remains that way until climbing out of the Little Crossing the Fourche La Fave River, you exit the Ouachita National Forest. Arkansas: With an ascent of 22,299 ft, Arkansas Highway 7 Scenic Byway has the most elevation gain of all of the scenic driving trails in the area. What are your favorite scenic drives to take in the fall in Arkansas? Bream, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and largemouth bass can be caught in open waters or quiet coves. The Pig Trail - One of the most scenic drives in the state of Arkansas. Fifteen miles of Interstate 530 has been designated as a scenic byway, and its no surprise as to why! 7 begins in the Ozarks near the shores of Bull Shoals Lake. Searchable listings of Hot Springs hotels, motels, resorts, bed & breakfast, and more. 216 feet above Hot Springs Mountain and 1,256 feet above Sea level is the breathtaking panoramic view of the park and its surrounding countryside. The road winds through the mountains, and there are cute gift shops and a couple of restaurants along the way. It has a two-way road that leads to the Summit Loop where you will find three overlooks. Scenic 7 then gradually changes into smooth, green pastures and the scenic drive comes to an end in Harrison. The lush greenery of late spring and the explosion of fall colors in the valley will give you an excuse to take this drive numerous times throughout the year! Have a favorite flower? Or should we take 40 at Russellville to Little Rock? Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. The park has a small fee which is covered by the America the Beautiful Pass. They are nicely spaced apart, with nature making a command performance between. Gods beauty but keep your eyes on the road. Primitive camping with no facilities at Richland Creek campsite. We would have loved to visit some tourist attractions, but by and large, they were not open during this time of year. 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! Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. 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. Arkansas: With an ascent of 6,797 m, Arkansas Highway 7 Scenic Byway has the most elevation gain of all of the scenic driving trails in the area. Buckle up and explore north-central Arkansas through Sylamore Scenic Byway. 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. Starting down near the Louisiana border, youll pass through the West Gulf Coastal Plain region, where youll likely get a view of some Loblolly shortleaf pine trees the Arkansas state tree! 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. 7 can be connected to two other Arkansas scenic byways: the West-Northwest Choose either an alternate ending or same as start. Structures blend in with the environment such as Mather Lodge, Water Tower and Davies Bridge. Spend One Perfect Day in the Grand Canyon: Itinerary & Travel Tips. Not recommended for young children. Scenic Highway 7 is one of the most scenic and longest drives in Arkansas due to its 290-mile stretch (466 kilometers). Condos for sale near me; Hot Springs Property Records; AR New Listings; . Under this protection, no dams or other obstacles can be built along it, meaning nature takes its course. 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. 290 miles. The park also features fishing, boating (with rentals), public pool, playground, cabins, camping and visitor center. 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. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Camping and RV hookups are available. As you approach the town of Centerville, consider a side-trip to the Petit Jean State Park (H4) by following the AR-154 east for 16 miles. Fully submerge yourself in the thermal water and let your worries melt away. 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. Meander through the Ouachita National Forest, ascend Arkansass second-highest point, and check out Queen Wilhelmina State Park, all without even unbuckling your seatbelt. You must drive slower due to all the curves. Take advantage of the many pull outs. 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. There isnt much traffic and there are several overlooks with ample parking. There are several scenic lookouts along the drives as well as some picnic areas. Full information on Hot Springs Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives and other easy vacation activities. The route was originally intended for carriage rides up the mountain during the late 1800s. Falling water falls is on the right at 2.3 miles, Six Finger falls is at mile 6 on the left. Cotter Trout Dock Guided Trout Fishing Tours. So many beautiful sites. Back on AR-7, you soon exit the Ozark National Forest and are welcomed by the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks (V3). 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. Swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and fishing are enjoyed here. Head out on this 4.7-mile point-to-point trail near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Are there any height restrictions. Herons, bald eagles, egrets nest here and American alligators can be found in the small lakes. Scenic 7 can be connected to two other Arkansas scenic byways: the West-Northwest Scenic Byway (it intersects in Ola) and the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway (at Jasper take Arkansas State Highway 74 to Ponca, then 43 to the top of the route). Arkansas State Highway 7 from the Louisiana border to Harrison, Arkansas. Start out by spelunking the Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View, then snake through the eastern portion of the Ozark National Forest. In addition, the town has the Boone County Heritage 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. Scenic drives to consider in the Hot Springs NP area are listed below. In addition to picnic tables is a historic mountain shelter located on the left side of the overlook. 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! Where is the best town to start the scenic7. 1921 near El Dorado. You will enjoy the trip very much and there are lots side trips along the way. In no particular order, and with each route offering a unique landscape, youll want to check out all of these amazing Arkansas scenic byways! Thanks in advance for any suggestions you have! Pine Bluff is a town full of rich history, so hop out of the oljalopy and explore a bit! We'd like to explore the NW area and as far south as Hot Springs. 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. To visit, from AR-16, turn right onto the gravel Forest Road 28 for 3 miles. 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 can continue on to North Mountain Loop and then back down to Fountain Street. During the fall, this is one of my familys favorite routes for getting out and into the mountains. Spring brings thousands of neotropical songbirds that use the refuge as a rest stop during migration. 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. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. The Rotary Ann Overlook (V2) features an endless view of the jagged Ozark Mountains and is an excellent location for a picnic. (There seems to be SO many beautiful drives!) In five miles, you enter the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. From this overlook is a great aerial view of Bathhouse row and downtown Hot Springs. Especially if you can take perfect photos to commemorate the tour! this was an amazing scenic drive! 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. Where to stop between Memphis and Little Rock? Crowley's Ridge National Scenic Byway 2 Scenic Drives By maldenmusic The grave site of local legend (and my gr gr uncle!) The website features a bloom calendar. 53 mi. 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. Read the sites full Privacy & Disclosure policy here. It continues to Camden and on to Arkadelphia through Print/PDF map. 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. Make sure you stop and go to the scenic overlooks on Mount Nebo, you'll be happy you did. If you opt for Mount Magazine Scenic Byway, there are some very fascinating spots that you will see along the road like a miniature of Paris Eiffel Tower. Hot Springs National Park is home to 2 scenic driving trails with an average 4.3 star rating from 266 community reviews. If you love fishing or canoeing, a stop at White River is a must. About 10 miles At the summit of West Mountain is an overlook south to the Trap Mountains with Lake Hamilton visible far in the distance. 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! If Winter is not mentioned, the road may be closed during the winter. The flavor of the city is A quaint small town square boasting several antique shops A summary of what Hot Springs has to offer. Are you a rock hound? Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. It was a lovely, relaxing drive. Time to Allow 1 hour or less 1 - 3 hours Over 3 hours. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. The dam was built in 1942 to control flooding along the Fourche La Fave River and created Nimrod Lake. Eiffel Tower in Arkansas? All Rights Reserved and. While here, you can also check out Calico Rock Museum and Visitor Centre or Printing Press Caf. Which scenic driving trail has the most elevation gain in Arkansas? This spot will hopefully give you a moment of breath catching joy straight from God. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. Continuing north for 10 miles, the forest opens up to grand views. These 10 best scenic drives in Arkansas, USA, can be a great way to explore the diverse and treasured corners of the state. Petit Jean State Park is one of the most attractive and most convenient options since it's only an hour outside of Little Rock. 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. Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the sign on the front says, "A North Arkansas Landmark." Hike some or all of the park's 26 miles of trails. mountain ranges along with the Arkansas River Valley before running through the Once on top of the ridgeline, the curves Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 13 min to complete. Plan to take this trip in about two months for jaw-dropping foliage colors and cooler temps to enjoy. 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. Heading north on AR-7, you soon enter the Ouachita National Forest. Very curvy, very steep sides, lots of areas with no shoulders. 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. This will give you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take in the breathtaking views of Arkansas. 71901, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Click here to view all the guides avialable for Arkansas. Unsubscribe in one click. Hope you enjoy the drive. If you wish to explore more around this loop, go camping or rent a cottage at Lake Chicot State Park. 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. Sometimes the river floods and sometimes it dries to a mere trickle. What is the most popular and difficult scenic driving trail in Arkansas? To request a listing, please fill out the form below and press "Submit.". Drive slowly and have your binoculars on hand. A The spectacular 95-foot cascade of Cedar Falls can be experienced by hiking the popular Cedar Falls Trail. This is a nice drive. Arguably Continue to Mobile Site On the way back, stop at the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge (A2) which protects 7,000 acres of bottomland hardwoods and wetlands. Beautiful scenery. 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. 2. READ MORE. Scenic 7: Among the Most Scenic Drives in AmericaRoute: The park offers full amenities such as boat rentals, cabins and camping. This drive along the Parkway will take you past seven Arkansas state parks and through the St. Francis National Forest! 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! Easy 4.5 (935) Hot Springs National Park. Wild elk herds can be spotted along AR-74, particularly at dawn and dusk. $66.67. 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. rolling terrain with dense pine forests and stream valleys with bottomland Any season would be nice, but Winter certainly wasn't the best. You go over a tiny bridge, but LOOK left! 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. 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. Discover a rejuvenating world of untouched natural beauty on these scenic roads. Youll also pass through Marble Falls, Arkansas (the town formerly known as Dogpatch), and can see the glorious Marble Falls waterfall. Horn in 1911 and dedicated to superintendent Harry H. Myers. We spent the night about half way up 7, at Mount Magazine, which is about 18 miles west of the 7, but provided just another beautiful byway to take in the Quachita/Ozark Mountains, and the various national forests that . What better place to start this list than with Arkansass first scenic byway! 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. We drove from Hot Springs north to Harrison in Route 7. . ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Across from the Newton County Courthouse is a legendary diner -- the Ozark Cafe. 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. We stopped at several viewpoints and the mountains were truly beautiful and if you can, go in the Fall. 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. broaden a bit, and the scenery is top-tier. 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. Learn more about the towns history and traditional arts when you head over to Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View. Drive through historic Hot Springs and the glorious Hot Springs National Park and then continue through the Ouachita National Forest to Page, Oklahoma. Hike to the iconic Hawk's Bill Crag. (HSBOR) Vacant land located at 1322 Lakeshore Dr Unit 1.13 ac +/-, Hot Springs, AR 71913 sold for $24,900 on Feb 12, 2021. . 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! Two Mountain Way runs along White River, an extremely popular point for trout fishing. Is this road suitable for large fifth wheells?We will be coming off of I 40 to go to Branson. We're thinking of staying near the Jasper area but are flexible at this point. Click the Add to Road Trip above to start planning your next road trip. Copyright 2023 Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, A Public Treasure: The Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge. Originally opened in 1909, it is, as the Is this road safe to drive in a rented rv (24-26')? She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite. Arkansas. 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. route). with five lakes in the region, its also a popular destination for fishing, Interstate 49 and U.S. 71, which are often referred to as two scenic byways of Arkansas, form Boston Mountains Scenic Loop. The panoramic view of the valley below is one you'll never forget. Prepare to be welcomed by refreshing vistas of oak-hickory forests and limestone cliffs. If you have all day or more: Do all of the above. A quaint small town square boasting several antique shops awaits visitors at Jasper. getting a good plate of inexpensive food. Scenic 7 Byway South: Russellville to Hot Springs. Ida, a silver mining city and USAs quartz capital. Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price. (Husband is recovering from torn tendon surgery.) From here, you can hop onto U.S. 270 and travel up to U.S. 71. in the U.S. Near Scenic drive from Paris, Arkansas to the summit of Mount Magazine State Park. We started at Hot Springs, which has many, many places to stay. buildings, make up its national historic district. 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 . 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. There is an abundance of wildlife to see throughout the year, but during the winter months, you can see a lovely variety of migratory birds, river otters, and more.