Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

National Forest Scenic Byways Beckon Travelers
Any Time of Year

Winter, spring, summer, fall. Arkansas' seven scenic byways can be enjoyed all year long. From the peacefulness of dogwood blossoms in the spring to the brilliance of fall colors, travelers along any of the byways are treated to an experience they can only get in the Ozark Mountains or along the Mississippi River Valley on the St. Francis National Forest.

Since May of 1988, over 90 highways or portions of highways [image]: Scenic 7 Byway across the Nation have been designated as a National Forest Scenic Byway. Scenic Byways highlight outstanding cultural, historic and simply beautiful areas located on a national forest. The Natural State has seven highways with this national designation.

CLIMATE

The Ozark Region has four distinct seasons with a temperature range from 10-15 degrees below zero to over 100 degrees F. Winters have occasional cold periods of brief duration with daily temperatures near zero in January and February. Annual precipitation measures around 50 inches, but the range may vary considerably from this average. Snowfall occurs in the forest covering the ground from a few hours to occasional extended periods of up to several days. The area can offer comparatively snow-free outdoor recreation opportunities during the winter months. However, be prepared for occasional cold weather during the winter, especially at the higher elevations of the Forests.

OVERVIEW

SCENIC 7 BYWAY includes 60.6 miles of Highway 7 that connects Louisiana to Missouri through Arkansas. It crosses the Piedmont area of Arkansas through the Ouachita Mountains, then drops into the Arkansas River Valley near Russellville before once more climbing into the Ozark Highlands. Scenic 7 takes the traveler through two national forests and a national park, over a national river, and by several state parks.

OZARK HIGHLANDS BYWAY includes 35 miles of Highway 21 north of Clarksville in Johnson County to the Upper Buffalo Wilderness and Buffalo National River in Newton County. This is truly a "highland route," crossing ridges between the headwaters of major streams. Traveling the byway from south to north you will find the historic Ozone Recreation Area and a trailhead for access to the Ozark Highlands Trail. The Mulberry, Big Piney and Buffalo Rivers are accessed from this road and provide many canoe launching sites. Common sightings include elk, eagles, and deer.

SYLAMORE SCENIC BYWAY is made up of a 26.5 mile portion of Highways 5 and 14, and Forest Service Road 1110. The route goes through a park-like portion of the Ozark National Forest which leads visitors to Blanchard Springs Caverns. The Byway is also a major link to Mountain View to the south and the mountain community of Calico Rock to the North.

PIG TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY includes 19 miles of Highway 23 between the towns of Ozark and Brashears. The Pig Trail is a major route to the northwest Arkansas cities of Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers and Bentonville. This route provides access to well-known locations such as Eureka Springs, Beaver and Table Rock Lakes and to the nationally-known craft fair at War Eagle. When driving this byway on an autumn weekend, visitors often encounter carloads of people wearing bright red hog hats and yelling "Wooo-pig-sooee" out the windows while on their way to Arkansas Razorback games.

MT. MAGAZINE SCENIC BYWAY leads travelers across the top of Mt. Magazine, the highest point in Arkansas. It includes a 20.4 mile segment of Highway 309 south of Paris to Havana in Logan County, Arkansas. The byway passes Cove Lake Recreation Area and the Cove Lake Trail. From the mountain, visitors can see hundreds of miles.

ST. FRANCIS SCENIC BYWAY is a winding 21-mile route, part of the designated Great River Road. The byway is located between the cities of Helena/West Helena and Marianna. It passes Bear Creek and Storm Creek Lakes and the Mississippi and St. Francis River Valleys.

TALIMENA SCENIC BYWAY is a 54-mile byway spans one of the highest mountain ranges between the Appalachians and the Rockies. One breathtaking panorama follows another as this national forest scenic byway winds along the crests of forested mountains between Mena, AR and Talihina, OK. No matter what your preferred recreational activity is, the Byway and the Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area are sure to please every visitor.

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