Just about anywhere in Arkansas is scenic except for Southeast Arkansas. The Southeast part of the state is too much like Mississippi for me.

 

Was planning making my home base in in eureka springs. But after reading the Harrison brochure I just received, I am now thinking Harrison. Do you think the switch is a mistake.

 

Even if you don't home base in Eureka Springs, you should take time to visit there anyway. Very cool little town and there ain't a straight road in the area.

 

Not a bad change... you go east to Push Mountain (must do); south to Jasper, Boxley Valley, Arkansas Dragon hwy 123; go west to eureka then south to the Pig Trail hwy 23 south
- on your way to the Pig trail detour on 215 to Oark and stop at the country store.

From there you could go ......... wow I could go on for hours..

Any direction in a 100 mile range of Harrison is great riding.

Enjoy my back yard.

 

Yes, I think it's a mistake. Harrison is a small city/town and frankly, not that attractive. I don't even stop there for gas. Eureka Springs, on the other hand, is a village that caters to people exactly like you. As such, it has better accommodations as well as restaurants, bars, coffee shops, etc. It's nice to get in a great ride and then head into town for a nice stroll and a meal. It's a historic area with very interesting mountain architecture - i.e. a lot of Victorian houses built into the mountains. I grew up in NW Arkansas and I now stay in Eureka Springs when I visit. Nuff said.

If you do stay in ES, make sure you book at a place where you can park your truck and trailer. There are many places that can accommodate you, but some can't due to limited parking and/or steep driveways.

 

Thanks for all of your replies. Had know idea where to stay, where to go and what to see. I now have a starting point. Thanks again.

 

As a regular rider of the Arkansas Ozarks I think Harrison is a good choice for a base. I've organized several group rides in the area and I prefer staying at the 1929 Hotel Seville in Harrison over staying in Eureka Springs, although I agree that ES is a must do destination.

http://1929hotelseville.com/

 

eureka springs!

 

chiming on the Eureka/Harrison debate...
when is a big factor. Eureka is an excellent tourist town, but can be full around holidays, some weekends and prime time. Harrison may be a better choice in those windows.

Branson can be dirt cheap in the off season as well.. tons of rooms they want to rent. Great rooms with breakfast $60ish if you call around and get off the main drags

 

We stayed just north of Jasper at the Little Switzerland Chalets for about a week last May. It's a great central location. Great riding in any direction that you decide to go. It's right off scenic hwy. 7. And only a few minutes from hwy 123. And the Jasper Disaster ride, and the Moonshine Run. And several more. We loved it there and can't wait to go back.