Things to Do Around the Ozark Trails in Northwest Arkansas

Turn Your Ride Into a Full Weekend Experience

From scenic drives and historic stops to hidden waterfalls and local landmarks, there’s more to explore beyond the ride.

There’s more to this area than just riding. Between the trails, you’ll find scenic roads, historic landmarks, and local stops that turn a good trip into a full weekend experience. If you’ve got extra time, these are places worth working into your ride.

Mountain Crest Academy (Historic Stop on the Way to Frog Bayou Falls)

Over 100 years old, this old school building has become a favorite photo stop for riders heading to or from Frog Bayou Falls. It’s a quick stop, but one people remember.

It adds a piece of local history to the ride and gives you something different to experience between trail sections.

Historic Chimneys and Old Homestead Sites

Scattered throughout the area, you’ll come across old chimneys and remnants of homes that once stood deep in the Ozarks.


These quiet stops give you a sense of the history out here and add something unexpected to the ride beyond just terrain and scenery.

Pig Trail Scenic Byway (Highway 23)

One of the most well-known scenic drives in Arkansas, the Pig Trail is packed with tight curves, elevation changes, and mountain views.


It’s a favorite for motorcyclists, but it’s just as enjoyable if you’re looking to slow things down and take in the scenery from the road.

Oark General Store (Lunch Stop on the Loop Tour)

Established in 1890, Oark General Store is the oldest continuously operating store in Arkansas and a destination people plan their day around.



It’s known for its food and especially its homemade pies. Sitting down here after a morning on the trails is part of the experience itself.

This is also the lunch stop on the full-day loop tour, and for many riders, it ends up being one of the most memorable parts of the day.

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area

About 40 minutes away, White Rock Mountain is one of the best overlooks in the region.

You can’t take ATVs inside, but it’s worth the drive. There’s a rim trail along the edge with wide-open views that stretch across the Ozarks. It’s a great way to mix in a hike and see the area from a completely different perspective.

Turner Bend & the Mulberry River

About 20–25 minutes south on the Pig Trail, Turner Bend is a go-to spot for floating the Mulberry River.



If you’re here for a few days, this is an easy add-on. Spend one day riding, then switch it up with a float trip through the Ozarks.

Dickson Street – Fayetteville

About 40 minutes away, Dickson Street in Fayetteville is where people go for food, drinks, and nightlife.

After a full day outdoors, it’s a completely different pace. Restaurants, bars, and live music make it a good option if you want to get off the trails for a night.

Ozark Highlands Trail

The Ozark Highlands Trail (OHT) is a premier, 270 mile long hiking and backpacking route in Arkansas. Spanning from Lake Fort Smith State Park to the Buffalo National River (and beyond), it is celebrated for rugged remote terrain, pristine waterfalls, and ideal fall-winter hiking conditions.  There are several access point near our location!

Hawksbill Crag (Whitaker Point)

One of the most photographed spots in Arkansas, Hawksbill Crag is about 45 minutes away.



The short hike leads to a rock ledge that extends out over the valley. It’s a simple hike with a big payoff, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Kings River Falls

About 30 minutes away, Kings River Falls is an easy hike to a wide waterfall with a beautiful swimming hole below.

It’s one of the more relaxing stops in the area and a good way to cool off after a day on the trails.

Upper Buffalo Mountain Bike Trails

Roughly 40 minutes away, the Upper Buffalo trail system offers mountain biking routes through the forest.



It’s a different kind of ride, but still fits the same idea. Getting out, moving, and exploring the terrain from another angle.

Fishing the White River

If you’re into fishing, the White River near St. Paul is known for smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and sunfish.

It’s an easy way to spend a slower morning or evening between rides.