Arkansas Joy Rides
The state is filled with scenic and historic routes for motorcycle enthusiasts and day-trippers. Here's a look at a few to get your journey started.
Northwest
EUREKA SPRINGS ART & HERITAGE TOUR
(112 miles)
Situated on the northern section of AR 23, Eureka Springs is one of the top motorcycling destinations in mid-America, with highways consistently ranked among the top 10 best driving roads in the country by various publications. The scenic route features wooded terrain dotted with pastures, and is suitable for most levels.
Things to see: Eureka Springs Historic Downtown; War Eagle Mill, Rogers; Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville
PIG TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY/SIDETRIP TO OARK
(80-98 miles)
While the entire length of AR 23 is typically referred to as the “Pig Trail,” it’s actually just the 24 miles from I-40 to Brashears, located at the junction of AR 16, that comprises the famous ride, which was named number one on the USA Today 10 Best list of the country’s best motorcycling routes and number two in North America . It has become synonymous with winding pavement and gorgeous scenery, often through deep tunnels of overhanging trees.
Things to see: Oark General Store, Oark; Withrow Springs State Park, Huntsville; St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, Eureka Springs
Northwest / Southwest
(296 miles)
Most motorcyclists will agree that the Arkansas Scenic 7 Byway is pretty special. In fact, it has become a nationally recognized riding treasure. The Scenic 7 covers two mountain ranges—the Ozarks and the Ouachitas—running through the Arkansas River Valley and the dense pine woodlands of the south Arkansas Timberlands to Louisiana. The tour includes snaky curves, steep hills and flat sections, making it a varied and fun route for any motorcycle enthusiast.
Things to see: Buffalo National River, Jasper; Mt. Nebo State Park, Dardanelle; Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs; Oaklawn Racing and Gaming, Hot Springs
Central
PINNACLE MOUNTAIN/GREERS FERRY LOOP
(230 miles)
This beautiful ride gets started at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, extends to Greers Ferry Lake and circles back to central Arkansas. After crossing the Arkansas River near Morrilton, riders begin their ascent into the Ozarks on a smooth course to the Greers Ferry Lake area. Riders can stop at Greers Ferry Dam near Heber Springs before heading back to Little Rock on US 67.
Things to see: Little Red River, Heber Springs; William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park, Little Rock; Drasco Trading Post, Drasco
Upper Delta
GATEWAY GAP/ROCK ‘N’ ROLL HIGHWAY
(180 miles)
US 67 is nicknamed the Rock ‘N’ Roll Highway in recognition of the many famous musicians—like Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash—who played at the venues along this highway. The route also winds through the Ozarks’ eastern foothills.
Things to see: Mammoth Spring State Park, Mammoth Spring; Jacksonport State Park, Newport; Mark Martin Museum, Batesville; historic downtown Hardy; Beatles Sculpture & Guitar Walk, Walnut Ridge
Lower Delta
BAYOU BARTHOLOMEW/ROHWER MEMORIAL LOOP
(123 miles)
The longest bayou in the United States begins in Star City and loops through the Delta. The route is divided into two distinct geographical regions: the flat, Mississippi River-bottom agricultural land and dense Timberlands.
Things to see: Desha County Museum, Dumas; World War II Japanese-American Internment Museum, McGehee; Cane Creek State Park, Star City