Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
BEHIND THE WHEEL
Byways provide scenic tours of The Natural State
From the rolling hills of the Ozark Mountains to the sweeping fields of the Mississippi Delta, Arkansas has a diverse and beautiful landscape. With many destinations to visit, sometimes the easiest way to explore the state is by car or motorcycle. Luckily, the state has several scenic byways that are dedicated to folks who like to see the sights from the road. The following are just a few of these routes to check out.
THE PIG TRAIL
While only 19 miles long, there’s plenty to do on the Pig Trail. One of the state’s most famous routes, the Pig Trail winds through the Ozark Mountains. In the fall, the hills come alive with fall foliage, while the spring offers the sights of wildflowers, which provide stunning scenes viewed from a car or motorcycle. The Pig Trail also crosses the Mulberry River, a popular canoeing and kayaking destination, and the 165-mile Ozark Highlands Trail, one of the longest and most beautiful hiking trails in the country.
THE TALIMENA SCENIC DRIVE
Stretching from U.S. 71 in Mena to Talihina, Oklahoma, this 54-mile route offers dozens of attractions to sightseers. For the outdoor explorer, the Ouachita, Caddo and Cossatot rivers offer canoeing and kayaking opportunities, from lazy rivers to full-on Class IV rapids. History buffs are also in for a treat, as the byway provides access to Queen Wilhelmina State Park, home of the famed “Castle in the Sky” that graced the same location more than 100 years ago. The modern Queen Wilhelmina Lodge now offers 40 guest rooms, campsites and scenic overlooks. Nature buffs can also find a variety of plants, birds, trees and other wildlife along the route.
THE GREAT RIVER ROAD NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY
Covering 10 states along the Mississippi River, the Great River Road National Scenic Byway offers a unique view of the Arkansas Delta. To explore some of Arkansas’ history, visit the Arkansas Post National Memorial, the first semipermanent French settlement in the lower Mississippi River Valley. The Delta Cultural Center in Helena offers a glimpse into the history of the Delta with interactive exhibits, historic buildings and outdoor sights. Music fans can visit the Historic Dyess Colony and the boyhood home of Johnny Cash.
CROWLEY’S RIDGE PARKWAY
At 198 miles long, Crowley’s Ridge Parkway extends from Helena-West Helena all the way north into Missouri. Along the way, drivers can find camping in the St. Francis National Forest, fishing at Lake Frierson and, of course, Crowley’s Ridge State Park. The Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and Educational Center in Piggot features the location where Ernest Hemingway wrote portions of his famous novel “A Farewell to Arms.”