Avoid Highways: Ozark Highlands

“Avoid Highways” is a road trip series that veers away from the monotony of the interstate and onto winding back roads where adventure is always just around the corner.

For anyone looking to hit the open road, the Ozark Highlands offers an unforgettable journey. Where rolling hills meet crystal-clear streams and charming towns, this region offers an unrivaled combination of natural beauty and rich history. This guide will lead you on a scenic journey along U.S. highways and state roads, allowing you to take in the beauty of the Ozarks at a relaxed pace.

What sets this guide apart is its carefully crafted 10-day itinerary, designed to immerse you fully in the charm and splendor of the Ozarks. Unlike a quick drive or a simple detour from the freeway, this trip is a comprehensive adventure, showcasing historic landmarks, hidden gems, and scenic routes that make the journey as enriching as the destinations. With detailed daily stops and suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to turn a road trip into an unforgettable exploration.

Allow plenty of time to explore each destination while enjoying the drive. The trip spans approximately 1,000 miles with an estimated drive time of 20-25 hours, excluding stops and sightseeing. It’s designed for those who enjoy scenic routes, historic landmarks, and the freedom of the open road.

For the best weather, plan your trip in spring or fall, when temperatures are comfortable and the Ozarks are at their most picturesque. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall offers stunning foliage displays that are hard to beat. Summer is ideal for those who enjoy lake and river activities like boating, swimming, and fishing, though it does come with heat and humidity. If you’re traveling in winter, be ready for the possibility of snow and ice, which can add a rugged charm to the journey.

Plan on packing comfortable clothing and shoes for walking and hiking, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, a reusable water bottle, a camera, and—most importantly—a sense of adventure!

DAY 1
LITTLE ROCK TO BENTONVILLE

190 MILES, 4 HOURS

Route: Take US-70 W and AR-107 N to AR-16 W. Continue on AR-16 W to Bentonville.

LITTLE ROCK

Start your journey in Arkansas’s vibrant capital city.

William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum: Learn about the life and presidency of Bill Clinton, with exhibits showcasing artifacts, documents, and multimedia presentations.

River Market District: Explore this bustling hub with its lively atmosphere, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.

Arkansas River Trail: Hike or bike along this scenic trail, offering views of the Arkansas River and the city skyline.

Pinnacle Mountain State Park: Just outside the city, hike to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain for panoramic.

ALONG THE WAY

Petit Jean State Park: Hike to Cedar Falls, a majestic waterfall cascading 70 feet into Cedar Creek Canyon. Explore the park’s diverse landscape, including canyons, mesas, and forests, and discover the legend of Petit Jean, a young French woman who disguised herself as a boy to accompany her fiance to the New World.

Mount Magazine State Park: Ascend to the highest point in Arkansas, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding river valley. Hike or bike the park’s trails, go rock climbing, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

BENTONVILLE

Walmart Museum: You can’t visit Bentonville without paying tribute to the company’s roots and its visionary founder, Sam Walton. Located in the heart of Bentonville, where Walmart was born, the museum offers an engaging journey through the history of this retail giant. Discover its humble beginnings as a single store and explore exhibits showcasing its growth into a global phenomenon. This stop highlights the evolution of retail and also celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit that put Bentonville on the map.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: This world-class museum houses a remarkable collection of American art, from colonial times to the present day. Admire masterpieces by renowned artists and explore the museum’s grounds, featuring sculptures and walking trails.

Downtown Square: Experience the heart of Bentonville, with its charming shops, local restaurants, and historic buildings. Enjoy a cup of coffee at a sidewalk café or browse the unique boutiques.

Museum of Native American History: Learn about the rich history and culture of Native American tribes in the region through exhibits showcasing artifacts, art, and interactive displays.

DAY 2
BENTONVILLE TO EUREKA SPRINGS

35 MILES, 1 HOUR

Route: Take AR-23 N to Eureka Springs.

ALONG THE WAY

Pea Ridge National Military Park: Immerse yourself in the history of the Civil War at this site of a pivotal battle in 1862. Explore the battlefield, visit the museum, and learn about the soldiers who fought here.

EUREKA SPRINGS

This enchanting town is nestled in the Ozark Mountains, offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

Spring Street: Stroll down this historic street, lined with Victorian-era buildings housing art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway: Take a scenic train ride through the Ozark Mountains, enjoying breathtaking views and learning about the history of the railway.

Thorncrown Chapel: This architectural masterpiece, designed by E. Fay Jones, is a wooden chapel nestled in the woods, offering a serene and inspiring space.

Crescent Hotel: Explore this historic hotel, known for its opulent architecture and ghost stories. Take a ghost tour or simply enjoy the hotel’s elegant ambiance.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge: This sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued big cats, bears, and other animals. Enjoy a tour and learn about the animals and their stories.

DAY 3
EUREKA SPRINGS TO BRANSON

60 MILES, 1.5 HOURS

Route: Take US-62 E to Branson.

ALONG THE WAY

Dogpatch USA: Explore the abandoned remains of this once-popular theme park, a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. Take photos of the decaying structures and imagine the park in its heyday.

BRANSON

This entertainment mecca offers a dazzling array of shows, attractions, and activities for all ages.

Live Music Shows: Catch a performance by renowned musicians, from country and bluegrass to gospel and rock.

Silver Dollar City: Experience this award-winning theme park, with its thrilling rides, live entertainment, and crafts demonstrations.

Table Rock Lake: Enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing on the shores of this serene lake.

Titanic Museum Attraction: Step back in time and experience the story of the Titanic through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Hollywood Wax Museum: Get up close and personal with life-like wax figures of your favorite celebrities

DAY 4
BRANSON TO LAKE OF THE OZARKS

100 MILES, 2 HOURS

Route: Take MO-160 E to US-65 S. Continue on US-65 S to Lake of the Ozarks.

ALONG THE WAY

Ha Ha Tonka State Park: Hike to the ruins of a 19th-century castle overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks, offering unparalleled views and a glimpse into the past. Explore the park’s caves, springs, and natural bridges.

LAKE OF THE OZARKS

This sprawling lake is a popular vacation destination, offering a wide range of activities and attractions.

Water Activities: Enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, waterskiing, and more on the lake’s vast expanse.

Bagnell Dam: Learn about the history and engineering of this impressive dam, which created the Lake of the Ozarks.

Osage Beach: This bustling town offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife options

Lake of the Ozarks State Park: Explore the park’s hiking trails, campgrounds, and scenic overlooks.

DAY 5
LAKE OF THE OZARKS TO ARCADIA, MISSOURI

70 MILES, 1.5 HOURS

Route: Take MO-5 S to MO-72 W. Continue on MO-72 W to Arcadia.

ALONG THE WAY

Meramec State Park: Discover the wonders of this park, with its numerous caves, springs, and hiking trails. Take a cave tour, go fishing or canoeing on the Meramec River, or simply enjoy the natural beauty.

ARCADIA

This charming town is nestled in the Arcadia Valley, surrounded by the St. Francois Mountains, offering a peaceful retreat and beautiful scenery.

Victorian Architecture: Admire the town’s well-preserved Victorian-era buildings, adding to its historic charm.

Elephant Rocks State Park: Explore this unique park, featuring massive granite boulders resembling a herd of elephants.

Arcadia Valley Scenic Byway: Take a leisurely drive along this scenic byway, enjoying breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.

Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park: Hike to this natural water park, where the Black River flows through a narrow canyon, creating a series of pools and waterfalls.

DAY 6
ARCADIA, MISSOURI TO SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI

100 MILES, 2 HOURS

Route: Take MO-21 N to US-60 E. Continue on US-60 E to Springfield.

ALONG THE WAY

Onondaga Cave State Park: Embark on a cave tour through this magnificent cave system, known for its unique formations and underground streams.

SPRINGFIELD

This vibrant city offers a diverse mix of history, culture, and outdoor recreation.

Route 66 Car Museum: Relive the glory days of Route 66 at this museum, showcasing a collection of classic cars and memorabilia.

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium: Immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world at this impressive museum and aquarium, featuring a vast array of animals and exhibits.

Springfield Botanical Gardens: Stroll through a variety of themed gardens including a Japanese garden and a butterfly house.

Missouri Sports Hall of Fame: Celebrate the achievements of Missouri’s sports legends at this hall of fame, showcasing exhibits and memorabilia.

DAY 7
SPRINGFIELD TO BAXTER SPRINGS

80 MILES, 1.5 HOURS

Route: Take MO-13 S to US-60 E. Continue on US-60 E to Baxter Springs.

ALONG THE WAY

Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center: Hike through this unique natural area, featuring a variety of habitats and wildlife. Observe birds, explore the prairie, and learn about the importance of conservation.

BAXTER SPRINGS

This historic town played a significant role in the Civil War and was once a booming mining center.

Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum: Delve into the town’s rich history, from its Native American roots to its mining boom and Civil War significance.

Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees: Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming at this nearby lake, offering a variety of recreational opportunities.

Military History: Visit the Baxter Springs National Cemetery and learn about the town’s role in the Civil War.

DAY 8
BAXTER SPRINGS TO TENKILLER LAKE

150 MILES, 3 HOURS

Route: Take OK-100 S to US-270 E. Continue on US-270 E to Hot Springs.

ALONG THE WAY

Route 66: Experience a nostalgic drive along a portion of the historic “Mother Road,” stopping at roadside attractions and enjoying the Americana charm.

TENKILLER LAKE

This picturesque lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of water activities and scenic beauty.

Water Activities: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake’s coves and inlets, go fishing for bass and crappie, or simply relax on the shore and soak up the sun.

Tenkiller State Park: Camp, hike, or enjoy a picnic in this state park, offering incredible views of the lake and surrounding hills.

Illinois River: Explore the Illinois River, which flows into Tenkiller Lake, offering opportunities for floating and fishing.

DAY 9
TENKILLER LAKE TO HOT SPRINGS

150 MILES, 3 HOURS

Route: Take OK-100 S to US-270 E. Continue on US-270 E to Hot Springs.

ALONG THE WAY

Talimena National Scenic Byway: Embark on a breathtaking drive along this winding mountain road, offering panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains. Stop at scenic overlooks and enjoy the beauty of the changing leaves in the fall.

HOT SPRINGS

This historic spa town is renowned for its naturally heated springs and its charming Bathhouse Row.

Bathhouse Row: Step back in time and experience the history of Hot Springs at this collection of preserved bathhouses, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Hot Springs National Park: Explore the park’s hiking trails, thermal springs, and historical exhibits. Take a dip in the thermal waters at the Fordyce Bathhouse, now a visitor center and museum.

Downtown Hot Springs: Stroll through the vibrant downtown area, with its shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Garvan Woodland Gardens: Wander through these botanical gardens, featuring a variety of themed gardens, waterfalls, and a Japanese garden.

Magic Springs Theme and Water Park: Enjoy a day of thrills and spills at this family-friendly amusement park.

DAY 10
HOT SPRINGS TO LITTLE ROCK

60 MILES, 1.5 HOURS

Route: Take US-70 E to Little Rock.

ALONG THE WAY

Lake Ouachita State Park: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Arkansas’s largest lake, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Hike the park’s trails or relax on the shores of this pristine lake.

Little Rock: Return to Arkansas’s capital city, where you can reflect on your journey through the Ozark Highlands and enjoy the city’s many attractions and amenities.

This road trip through the Ozark Highlands offers a unique opportunity to experience the region’s diverse offerings, from natural wonders and charming towns to historical sites and vibrant cities. By choosing the scenic routes and taking your time, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the hidden gems of the Ozarks!