Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
There’s no shortage of outdoor fun to be had in Arkansas. (It is the Natural State, after all!) However, there’s no denying that one of the best ways to experience the state’s unsurpassed scenic beauty and natural gems is the Pig Trail Scenic Byway. Winding through the Boston and Ozark Mountains, the byway showcases some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Arkansas. Great destinations are just as plentiful. So, gas up the car (preferably one with off-roading capabilities), and prepare for an off-the-paved-path adventure like no other!
Hop in the car and prepare for a roller coaster of a route, as the scenic byway, which follows Arkansas Highway 23, twists and turns through the rugged and forested terrain of the Boston Mountains region of the Arkansas Ozark Mountains, passing by a top-notch state park, great off-roading opportunities, and tons of natural gems, including waterfalls, the Mulberry River, and the Ozarks Highland Trail.
Our first stop is Devil’s Den State Park, where you’ll find the country’s largest sandstone crevice area.
That’s not its only claim to fame, though. The park is also one of the most intact Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) sites in the nation, something you can see for yourself when exploring the park’s trails and buildings, including the original cabins.
If you only hike one trail, make it the Devil’s Den Lake Loop. A quick and easy trek with a big payoff, it’s just 0.8 miles and leads to one of the park’s most famous sites – a rock dam.
For a more challenging trek, check out Devil’s Den Trail. It’s just 1.5 miles, but it’s jam-packed with rugged beauty. Some of its best features include Devil’s Den Cave, Devil’s Ice Box, Twin Falls, Cold Springs, and more.
When you’re finished exploring Devil’s Den State Park, gear up for an off-the-paved-path adventure on the Buckhorn Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trail!
Buckhorn Off-Highway Vehicle Trail, 18896-19454 N Lee Creek Rd, Chester, AR 72934, USA
Along the way, you’ll encounter varying terrain, including clay, dirt, and rocky areas, which is why this adventure is best enjoyed in a 4x4 vehicle, like the Nissan Frontier.
Buckhorn Off-Highway Vehicle Trail, 18896-19454 N Lee Creek Rd, Chester, AR 72934, USA
It’s also an outfitter that rents everything you need for a leisurely ride down the scenic Mulberry River.
Once you’ve finished filling up your car and your belly, hop back in your car and continue your journey along the Pig Trail Scenic Byway to Mulberry Mountain Lodging and Events.
A 650-acre resort, it’s centered around Mulberry Mountain, which boasts an array of recreational opportunities throughout the seasons. ATV and UTV trails are among the region’s best perks, which means you’ll want to hitch a trailer to your Frontier and load up your 4-wheeler.
Advertisement
Wrap up your ride on the Pig Trail Scenic Byway at Ozark Highlands Trail.
A great place to get out and stretch your legs, the trail extends from one end of the Ozark National Forest to the other. It’s touted as one of the most scenic treks in the U.S. – and rightfully so.
Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area, Hagarville, AR 72839, USA
Endless beauty abounds along the entire trail. In the Boston Mountains segment, some can’t-miss sights include Haw Creek Falls, Slot Rock, and Cedar Creek Pool.
Boasting valley floor views, mountaintop vistas, and everything in between, Pig Trail Scenic Byway is a twisting, turning, and thrilling adventure like no other.
Well, what do you think? Are you ready to embark on this off-the-paved-path adventure? We thought so! Remember, these are just a portion of the great stops along the Pig Trail Scenic Byway. Other notable points of interest include Headquarters House, which served as a Union headquarters during the Civil War, and Hugo’s House, a basement-based hole-in-the-wall known for its burgers, homemade fries, and beer cheese soup.
