Riding Scenic Highway 7

Riding Highway 7, which holds the title as Arkansas’ first state-designated scenic byway, is a delight to travel via motorcycle. The route is one of the most scenic in the nation and runs across the entire state.

One segment you can take on is from Camden to Hot Springs. Highway 7 runs through Camden and murals depicting the vibrant history of the town can be found here. As you continue on, gentle rolling terrain through pine forests leads to Arkadelphia. Near here, the route enters the Ouachita Mountains and passes by beautiful DeGray Lake, which stands out for being home to Arkansas' only resort state park.

From here, the route leads to the popular destination of Hot Springs. Highway 7 takes you straight to historic downtown and by the picturesque Bathhouse Row of Hot Springs National Park. This national park, which is the oldest unit within the National Park System, is famous due to the park's namesake attraction. The springs are the reason this land was first set aside for protection and this thermal water can be found in everything from spa treatments on Bathhouse Row to the craft beer at Superior Bathhouse Brewery, the first brewery located inside a national park. Walking and exploring the downtown shops and art galleries on Central Avenue is a nice way  to spend some time off your ride. You can refuel at spots like the Ohio Club, which is said to be home to the oldest bar in the state. While in town, be sure to take a detour and ride up West Mountain to get an aerial view of downtown from one of the overlooks.