This Natural Wonders Road Trip Will Show You Arkansas Like You’ve Never Seen It Before
Now that summer’s almost over, who’s ready for some vacation time? What if I told you that in just 11 hours of driving time, you could see 10 of Arkansas’s most incredible sights? The Natural State is chock-full of natural wonders, and we’ve mapped out 10 of them for your next epic road trip. Most of us working stiffs only get weekends for adventures, but you’ll want to linger at every one of these places, so let’s consider this adventure just perfect for a three day weekend. Most of these places are already on your Natural State Bucket List, so really you’ll be killing two birds with one stone in the course of one epic road trip. That third day you need off work? Well, I think you have a fever. And is that a cough I heard? Luckily the only cure is the open road and these 10 slices of heaven.
For a map plotting all the places you’ll see, click here.
This living cave system is truly incredible, and it stays a cool 58 degrees year round. It’s called a “living cave” because the formations there are always growing and changing, so no matter if you’ve seen it before, you’ll likely see something different this time. It’s absolutely one of the most wonderful places in the state, and no matter which of the tours you choose to take there, you won’t be disappointed.
Only minutes away from the glorious cave system you just left, Mirror Lake is three acres of watery paradise. From the mirror-perfect still water to the two tiered waterfall, this lake is the result of the damming of Blanchard Spring. That's right, as in the Blanchard Spring that flows from the cave you just toured. So you'll get to see the spring from its genesis to where it becomes that spectacular waterfall.
At this third stop you’ll see the nation’s very first national river. The Buffalo is one of the most popular scenic spots in Arkansas, and for good reason. Its upper region is known for incredible bluffs like the one above.
This place is incredibly rustic, and it’s also a waterfall paradise. Set in the gorgeous and expansive Ozark National Forest, it’s crisscrossed with amazing streams and even more amazing waterfalls. Do mind your supplies here, though, as this water is not potable.
Next up you’ll get to view some of the most ancient and inspiring rock formations in the Natural State. Pedestal Rock Scenic Area offers a trail called Pedestal Rocks Trail that will lead you through these astounding, ancient weather-made formations.
Are you ready for a scenic overlook? Well, good, because White Rock Mountain is waiting near the small town of Mulberry to meet your needs. The overlooks there run along the bluffline surrounded by white rocks and looking out over the Ozark National Forest.
Congratulations, you’ve gone from the Ozarks to the Ouachitas! Wasn’t that drive lovely? Get ready for more lovely, because now you’re going to sit a spell at beautiful Cove Lake. If you’re up for a little more inspection, you can rent a paddleboat, a kayak, or a canoe to explore this gorgeous lake.
You’ve just traveled a little ways up the road from Cove Lake and reached the highest point in Arkansas. The overlooks there make you feel like you’re looking out over the whole world, and they’ll absolutely leave you breathless. (And not just because of all that mountain wind in your face.)
We’re deeper in the Ouachitas now, to the lake formed from the river that is their namesake. Lake Ouachita is not only the clearest, most pristine lake in Arkansas, it’s one of the cleanest in the world. Whether you want to admire the clear water, take a refreshing dip, or explore the hundreds of islands in the middle of the lake, you’re sure to enjoy your time there.
Last up we’re headed back to civilization, right into the heart of Arkansas’s most famous resort town. You’ll find 47 hot springs in Hot Springs, and they’re a natural wonder you won’t want to miss. You can explore the origins of these springs in the national park area, and even have a soak in one of the bathhouses. You’ve been in the car a lot these last few days, and you’ve done a ton of exploring. You deserve the full spa treatment.
J.B. Weisenfels has lived in rural Arkansas for three decades. She is a writer, a mom, and a graduate student. She is also an avid collector of tacky fish whatnots, slightly chipped teapots, and other old things. In her spare time she enjoys driving to the nearest creek to sit a while. If you were to visit her, she'd try to feed you cornbread.
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