A road trip is the best way to explore the world and get into nature. The road trip also helps to find yourself. If you are planning to go on a road trip, Plan your next trip around the best U.S national parks for scenic drive. Hot Spring And Buffalo National River Road Trip is a beautiful drive with breathtaking views and hot springs along the way. The road trip includes Hot Springs National Park, Ozark National Forest, Buffalo National River, Ouachita National Forest.
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Spring National Park is the oldest area, over 40 years older than Yellowstone National park. Hot spring is the major attraction in the park, but the park has a lot more than the hot string. The park has several scenic driving routes which is one of the best ways to explore the park. There are plenty of other activities like you can go for a hike or champing. We recommend at least one day to spend in Hot Spring National Park.
Directions:
- If you start from Little Rock, Arkansas takes approximately 54 miles. Interstate 30 W to US 70 W you would reach Hot Springs via exit 111.
- From Texarkana, Texas which is 112 miles
- From Fort Smith via Interstate 40 E via US 270 is about 129 miles
- From Fort Smith via Alternate Route AR 10 is about 133 miles
Buffalo National River
Buffalo River is one of the best destinations to spend your holidays, It is one of the free-flowing and unpolluted rivers in the lower 48 states. If you are an adventure person Buffalo River has lots to offer from canoeing to zip line. You can even get into your car and dive into the beautiful scenery.
It is recommended to refer to an Arkansas Highway map or park map. Since the GPS is very unreliable that even shows the wrong direction and onto dirt roads. The park is crossed by three main highways. If you want to reach the Upper District you can start from Harrison on Highway 7, or Highway 43. To reach the Tyler Bend area 31 miles south of Harrison on Highway 65. To reach the Buffalo point you can take Highway 65 south from Harrison, then take Highway 62/412 to the east to Yellville and Highway 14 south.
Ozark National Forest
Ozark National Forest covers 1.2 million acres You’ll find the tallest mountain in the State, Mount Magazine, and an incredible, living underground cave. Ozark has V-shaped valleys with steep-sided slopes and limestone soaring. Ozark gives opportunities for camping, hiking, swimming, fishing, hunting, boating, and scenic drives. You need at least 2 days to explore the park.
Arkansas State Highway 21 from Highway 64 in Clarksville to the Buffalo National River. The route has twisty highway sections and incredible scenery. The scenic drive through the forested Boston Mountain range in the Ozarks is loved but nature lovers. If you are planning to during the fall season you get to experience the magnificent drive through the colorful trees.