Discover 7 Of Arkansas' Most Iconic Views On This Epic 5-Hour Road Trip
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Melanie Johnson
Author
When it comes to scenic vistas, Arkansas tops the list in America. Obviously, it’s all in the name – The Natural State. From flowing rivers to majestic mountains, and more, there is no shortage of views to marvel at. But there are some vistas that are just so iconic that they define Arkansas and here are 7 of them. Pack your car, download a free trial of AllTrails+, and let’s take this 5-hour road trip to see the most iconic views in Arkansas.
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1. Pinnacle Mountain, Roland
Pinnacle Mountain State Park, 11901 Pinnacle Valley Rd, Roland, AR 72135, USA
We’re going to begin our road trip at one of the most recognizable landmarks in Arkansas, Pinnacle Mountain in Roland. The 1,011-foot pyramid-shaped mountain offers some of the best views of Lake Maumelle, the Arkansas River Valley, and the Ouachita Mountains. Tucked inside Pinnacle Mountain State Park, you can take the rugged hike to its peak, or enjoy views of the mountain from the valley below. Either way, you’re in for a treat.
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2. Emerald Park, North Little Rock
Emerald Park, 3098 W Scenic Dr, North Little Rock, AR 72118, USA
Our next stop is just a short 20-mile drive to Emerald Park in North Little Rock. Inside this 135-acre gem, you can witness the most amazing views of towering bluffs, the Arkansas River, and of course, Little Rock’s skyline. Central Arkansas isn’t known for its views, but these majestic vistas are worth the drive from anywhere in the state.
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3. Sugarloaf Mountain Island, Heber Springs
Sugarloaf Mountain, Trailhead Rd, Heber Springs, AR 72543, USA
Let’s leave central Arkansas and head north to the foothills of the Ozarks to the town of Heber Springs. That’s where you’ll find Sugarloaf Mountain Island, the only island mountain in Arkansas. Hike the 3-mile trail to the peak and bask in panoramic views of Greers Ferry Lake. As the first national scenic trail in America, it’s guaranteed that the views will leave you breathless.
4. South Mountain Overlook, Marshall
South Mountain Scenic Overlook, Marshall, AR 72650, USA
From there, let’s hop in the car and head north on Highway 65 to the town of Marshall. Located along the highway is a small roadside attraction, South Mountain Overlook. This lookout spot offers unbelievable panoramic views as far as the eye can see. There you can witness several towns, the rolling hills of the Ozark Mountains, the Buffalo National River, and more. It’s a great place to stop, have a picnic and marvel at all the Ozark glory.
5. Arkansas Grand Canyon, Jasper
Arkansas Grand Canyon, AR-7, Jasper, AR 72641, USA
The next stop on this road trip takes us to the mountain town of Jasper. The town is tiny, but when it comes to stunning vistas, it certainly is mighty. Here you’ll find one of Arkansas’ best kept secrets, the Arkansas Grand Canyon. As the deepest canyon in the Ozarks, the Buffalo National River flows 1414 feet below the viewing spot. What’s more, you can witness the Boston Mountain Range as well as Missouri in the distance. There’s no doubt that the views of the canyon will leave you speechless.
6. Big Bluff: Buffalo National River, Compton
Big Bluff, Arkansas 72624, USA
Viewing the Buffalo National River from Big Bluff is truly a sight to behold. Hence the reason why it’s on this iconic road trip. At 550-feet above sea level, not only can you see the mighty river in all its glory, but you get to witness the most majestic views of the Ozarks. Even better, you’ll be standing on the tallest bluff between the Rocky and Appalachian Mountains. The hike is strenuous, but the reward is worth every difficult step.
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7. Hawksbill Crag aka Whitaker Point, Kingston
Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point, Co Rd 406, Kingston, AR 72742, USA
Last but certainly not least is one of the most iconic views in Arkansas. It’s also the most photographed bluff in the state. Hawksbill Crag aka Whitaker Point is a natural rock outcropping inside the Ozark National Forest. As you perch on top of the hawk-shaped crag, while basking in the astounding views, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world. There’s no doubt that the iconic vistas will literally blow you away. And I mean literally!
So, which of these 7 iconic views in Arkansas do you like the best? Did we include your favorite on our list? If not, sound off in the comment section. You never know, we might include them on our next road trip series.
As mentioned, you can’t possibly cover all 7 destinations in one day, so you’ll need a place to rest. Here are some incredible Airbnbs in Arkansas that would be a great base camp for this iconic road trip.
The Perfect Spring Getaway Starts With One Of These 7 Picture-Perfect Airbnbs
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