Fall in Arkansas is absolutely gorgeous and it’s the perfect time for a road trip! When the air turns crisp, I start itching to hit the road because I can roll down the windows and enjoy the ride.
Here are 3 of my FAVORITE Arkansas Road Trip Ideas.
Two of them begin in Little Rock and one begins in Memphis! Let’s go!
Arkansas Road Trip Ideas for Fall
Option 1 – Ozark Mountains Scenic Roadtrip
Kick off your adventure in Little Rock, and from there, you head northwest into the breathtaking Ozark Mountains. The fall foliage in this area is absolutely stunning!
First stop? Petit Jean State Park. My favorite state park of all time!
This park has it all: hiking trails, waterfalls, and gorgeous views. Then, keep on trucking to the Ozark National Forest for even more hiking and winding roads!
And finally, wrap it all up in Fayetteville or Bentonville, where you can soak in some art at the Crystal Bridges Museum and grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant!
Also, don’t miss this: The Legend of Petit Jean – Adrienne DuMont and Petit Jean Mountain Arkansas
Option 2 – Hot Springs and Ouachita National Forest
So, this one starts in Little Rock too. But this time, you’re headed straight to Hot Springs. Those thermal baths and historic bathhouses are calling your name! Plus, the fall colors in Hot Springs National Park are amazing!
Next up, it’s all about the Ouachita National Forest. This place is a fall foliage wonderland!
I suggest making a pit stop in Mt. Ida. I LOVE this small town! Quartz crystal, legendary food, views you won’t even believe!
I’ll prove it! Just read this: 10 Favorite Things to Do in Mt. Ida, Arkansas – Vacation Guide!
Hike those trails and soak up the scenery. And don’t forget to hit the Talimena National Scenic Byway for jaw-dropping views of the Ouachita Mountains.
Option 3 – Travel the Great River Road
This trip is on my to-do list and I can’t wait!!
So, my final suggestion for the ultimate Fall road trip in Arkansas is to take a leisurely drive along the Great River Road, following the Mississippi River.
The fall colors along those riverbanks are terrific so BRING YOUR CAMERA! And if you’re into birdwatching and wildlife, the White River National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see.
Another reason to bring your camera…
Marked by green-and-white highway signs depicting a steamboat’s pilot wheel, the Great River Road runs through 10 states along the Mississippi River from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Designated a national scenic byway in 2002, Arkansas’ portion of the route crosses the east side of the state from north to south. –source
What an amazing trip!
Tips for your Arkansas Fall Road Trip
Remember to keep an eye on the weather. You know how temperatures and storms can change suddenly.
And plan your accommodations ahead of time if it’s not just a day trip!
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