David Link
Step back into history and explore rustic mountains and hollows with Ozark and Harrison AR motorcycle rides as selected by REVER. Deep forests and winding roads through towering rock bluffs make Ozark motorcycle rides an unforgettable escape. No matter where you ride in the area, you'll experience down home hospitality and southern-inspired cooking in small Ozark mountain towns. The highlight of this region is the Ozark National Forest, which features 66,000 acres of rushing rivers, deep caves and unique rock formations. Adventure awaits in the Harrison and Ozark area, and there is no better way to explore it than on your bike.
The climate of Harrison and Ozark is actually cooler than the rest of Arkansas due to its deep forests and high bluffs. This means motorcycle rides around Harrison are the perfect escape, even in the humid summer months. However, it is important to note that the local climate makes rain and snow more likely than other places in Arkansas. Be sure to pack breathable rain gear for the summer. Stay the night and listen to the insects and frogs sing with a solid motorcycle camping kit. Don't forget key essentials like camping pillows and sleeping pads. In the winter months, cold temperatures paired with occasional snow could make for an unpleasant ride, and you're best postponing any plans until the warmer months.
Harrison Arkansas motorcycle routes aren't as challenging as other mountainous areas in the US, but there are enough twists and turns to make them difficult for beginners. Make sure to thoroughly research a route and respect your current skill level before heading out on a ride. REVER has explored the hills and winding Ozark motorcycle roads extensively to pick out the best routes in the area. The REVER App is the perfect companion on any Ozark ride, and REVER Pro features like turn by turn navigation and weather alerts ensure you'll execute a great ride every time. So pick a route, fill up your tank and prepare to be surprised by the beauty of Northwest Arkansas.
The fall is an excellent time to plan Ozark motorcycle routes to see the fall colors. Nothing beats riding the curves and switchbacks of the Ozark mountains under the reds, orange and yellows of fall. Spring is also a great time to visit to see the roaring rivers and unique waterfalls of the region. Glory Hole Falls, Kings Bluff Falls, Cougar Falls and Mt. Magazine Falls are all must-see destinations in the area. If you have an ADV bike, be sure to check out the remote Twin Falls near Harrison. Or recreate the burnouts of past moonshiners on the Ozark Moonshine Run. There are several caves to explore in the area including Mystic Caverns, Blanchard Springs Caverns and Hurricane River Cave. Finally, no trip would be complete without some country-style cooking, and we've picked out several of our favorites to pair with Harrison Arkansas motorcycle rides.
Circle the northern stretch of the White River and ride a remote section of Arkansas hills and forests in this two and a half hour loop around Calico Rock, AR. This route traverses the northeast section of the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest where the Buffalo River meets the White River. If you're curious about riding more of the Buffalo River, check out the Northern Ozarks Loop below. The White River offers some of the best trout fishing in the region, and rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout can all be found in the area. We'll begin in Melbourne, AR, and head west on Highway 9 towards Allison, AR to begin. Before you ride out of Melbourne, stop at Bailey's Country Cookin' for an old fashioned country breakfast. Enjoy the route on Highway 9 as it challenges you with plenty of twists and a few switchbacks. When you arrive in Allison, cross the White River, and then take a short detour on Swinging Bridge Road to ride over the Swinging Bridge on South Sylamore Creek. There is camping available nearby at Sylamore Creek Camp. Be sure to check out the unique Jo Jo's Catfish Wharf dining spot along the river if you're hungry. Finally, take Highway 14 west out of town as you head towards two premier natural wonders in the White River area.
First up is Mirror Lake Waterfall. This man-made dam was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, and the falls are the result of damming the nearby Blanchard Springs. Above the dam you'll see a Mirror Lake, which acts as an emerald-color reflecting pool for the hills and woods that surround it. This site is also home to another must-see natural wonder in the area – Blanchard Springs Caverns. The deepest part of this cave descends 366 ft. underground, and there are plenty of different rooms to explore including the Ghost Room with its giant white flowstone. Don't miss the “wild cave” tour where you can hike deeper into remote areas of the cave. The park also offers camping at North Sylamore Campground.
When you're finished at Blanchard Springs, continue west on Highway 14 until you take a right onto 341 or Push Mountain Road. This remote Ozark road is a must-ride for anyone who loves winding, forested routes. Note there are no services on this section, so fill up in Allison beforehand, or plan on a stop when you get to Norfork, AR. Invigorated by this section of memorable mountain road, you'll once again cross the White River and hang a right onto Highway 201. Take a short detour south into the town of Norfork to check out Heidi's Ugly Cakes for lunch and dessert. Right along the White River here is the Jacob Wolf House. This former territorial courthouse was built in 1829 and is the oldest public building in Arkansas. As you take Highway 5 up to Salesville, stop at Norfork Lookout Point to get the best views in the area. Once in town, take a right onto County Road 177 to see the Norfork Dam. You'll ride across the dam to continue the route, but there is camping and closer views of the dam available in the quarry pit below.
Once in Pineville, AR, take County Road 56 south to Calico Rock. Be sure to visit the Calico Rock Museum and the Trimble House to learn about 1800s Ozarks history. Then grab some homestyle food at Our House Cafe in the center of town. When finished, take 56 north back out of town, and then turn right to continue on 56 east towards Brockwell, AR. At Violet Hill, hang a right onto La Crosse Road, and take it south past the airport until you meet up with Highway 69. Take a right to arrive back in Melbourne and complete the loop.
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Ride through the heart of Ozark National Forest and explore the hill country of northwest Arkansas on this two and a half hour loop out of White Oak. Before you head out (or to finish the loop), take a detour south into Ozark, AR to see the Arkansas River. The Ozark Burger Company and Rivertowne BBQ offer solid lunch options in the area. There is a small historical site along the river at the Ozark Area Depot Museum as well.
Back in White Oak, take Highway 23, also known as the Pig Trail Scenic Byway, north towards Cass, AR to enter the national forest. There are several twists and a few hairpin turns to keep you engaged on this route. This stretch is one of the most popular motorcycle roads in America as it takes you through a tunnel of trees. At a bend in the road, stop by Pig Trail Falls to snap a roadside photo or stretch your legs on the trail. You'll cross the Mulberry River right before you pass through the small town of Cass. Stay north on the trail as you climb some switchbacks into the hills. There is a nearby scenic overlook offering views of the valley, and the Cherry Bend Recreation Area features several hiking trails. To the right you'll see the prominent feature of Mckay Ridge as you wind through more hilly country.
When you arrive in Brashears, AR, take a right to continue on the trail towards St. Paul, AR. Saints Snack Shack offers a quick stop for food in town. Ride northeast along the White River, and then hang a right onto Highway 16 at Hawkins Hollow. You'll follow the river valley through Pettigrew, AR. Your next destination will be Fallsville, AR. Turn right at the intersection to take County Road 21 south. More winding forest roads await as you ride down to Clarksville, AR. You can also take a short detour and ride around Lake Ludwig to see the Old King Cemetery. Once in Clarksville, take a right onto Route 64 to head into town. Stop at Fat Dawgz BBQ for a meal in the area. You'll want to stay on County Road 103 north past the University of the Ozarks towards Woodland, AR. At Harmony, AR, hang a left on 164. Once you pass through Hunt, AR, take a right onto 352 to ride back into White Oak and complete the loop.
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Tour the northern reaches of the Ozark National Forest in Arkansas and cross the pristine Buffalo River in this two and a half hour ride through rugged country. The Ozarks region of Arkansas offers no shortage of riding thrills, and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep you occupied through the mountains on this route. Begin the ride in Western Grove, AR, and take Highway 123 southwest out of town. Stay on 123 through Hasty, AR to ride towards the Buffalo National River. This 135 mile river is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. It is a fishing, canoeing and kayaking paradise that allows visitors to float through rushing rapids and calm pools while surrounded by towering river bluffs. For more visitor information, visit the <a href=”https://www.nps.gov/buff/index.htm”>NPS Buffalo National River</a> website.
You'll cross over the river at Carver Landing, and there is camping available here. Continue out of the park area for now towards Princetown and Mount Judea, AR along Big Creek. There is a little cafe in Mount Judea if you need to stop for a bite. Otherwise, stay on 123 south out of town and gear up for some switchbacks up to Campbell Gap. More windy roads await after the gap, and notice the bluff feature known as Sam's Throne off to the west. You've entered the northern portion of Ozark National Forest, and your next destination is Lurton, AR. Outside of town, hang a right onto Highway 7 west towards Pleasant Hill, AR. Ride more hilly country as you pass by the turn off for Big Creek Cave Falls. You will have to do some hiking and bushwhacking to see the falls, so keep that in mind if you make the detour. When Highway 7 separates from 16 at Norton Gap, take the hard left back south on 16.
There is another small restaurant called the Deer Stand Cafe in Deer, AR to visit, or keep winding through the hills towards Edwards Junction. Once there, turn right onto Highway 21 north. The Magnolia Falls Trailhead is off to your left if you want to explore another waterfall in the area. Pass by the Smith Creek Trailhead and QuiVaLa Elise Waterfall on your way back into the Buffalo National River. Stay straight on Highway 43 along the Buffalo River Valley when 21 splits off west. This valley is known for its elk herds, and there are wildlife watching pull offs that are definitely worth the stop. A little further up, stop at the Ponca Low-Water Bridge to relax by the river. When ready, take a right onto Highway 74, and follow the hairpin turn back around south. There are two more campgrounds north of here on Steele Creek Road. Pass through Low Gap, and consider a stop at the Low Gap Cafe for country-style cooking. Up next is Jasper, AR. Be sure to cross the Buffalo River south to head into town. The Ozark Cafe is a must-see here with its Americana roadhouse feel and live music acts. Take Highway 7 north back out of town when you're finished.
For the final stretch of the ride, take a hairpin turn north to ride along the little Buffalo River Valley. Then climb back up into the hills to reconnect with the main fork of the river. Cross over again at Pruitt, AR to ride one more stretch of beautiful Ozark country. There are a couple trailheads and a landing to visit along the river. Your final stop in the national park area is Dogpatch, AR. Stop at Marble Falls for a roadside waterfall with easy access on Mill Creek. Mystic Caverns is located in Dogpatch as well. There are two caves to explore here, and the newly discovered Crystal Dome features an eight-story dome that has to be seen to be believed. Your final destination is Bellefonte just outside of Harrison, AR. Take a right on 206 to head towards town. Finish off your ride with a burger at Jamie's Local Flavors in Harrison.
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"You don't stop riding when you get old, you get old when you stop riding."
― Anonymous
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