Best Motorcycle Rides in Arkansas: Top 7 Twisty Routes & Scenic Roads (2026)

• START/END: I-40 (Ozark) to Brashears
• ROUTE: AR-23
• DISTANCE: 26 miles
• RIDE TIME: 40 mins
• BEST TIME: Summer (shady forest ride)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Searching for the best motorcycle ride in Arkansas? The legendary Pig Trail Scenic Byway on AR-23 tops every rider’s list. This iconic 26-mile stretch starts at I-40 (Ozark exit) and blasts north through the heart of Ozark National Forest to Brashears, carving relentless hairpins, sweepers, and elevation changes in the rugged Boston Mountains.

First, a thick tree canopy shades the road — perfect for beating Arkansas summer heat. Next, constant curves demand focus while delivering jaw-dropping forested vistas at every turn. Consequently, the Pig Trail consistently ranks as Arkansas’ #1 twisty motorcycle road and one of the top rides in the South.

Whether you’re hunting the twistiest roads in Arkansas, the best motorcycle routes near Fayetteville , or an epic Ozark adventure from Little Rock, this classic belongs on your bucket list. Summer shade and year-round thrills make it unforgettable!
(photo: flickr.com)

• START/END: Hagarville to Western Grove
• ROUTE: AR-123
• DISTANCE: 63 miles
• RIDE TIME: 1.5 hours
• BEST TIME: Year-round (less traffic than Pig Trail)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Looking for the best twisty motorcycle ride in Arkansas that rivals the Pig Trail but with fewer crowds? Arkansas Route 123 is the answer. Often called “The Dragon Tail,” this epic 63-mile stretch runs through the remote heart of Ozark National Forest, delivering non-stop hairpins, steep elevation drops, and sweeping curves locals swear by.

First, the road dives into dense hardwood forests with almost zero traffic. Next, constant technical turns and dramatic scenery — including waterfalls and creek crossings — keep you grinning the entire time. Consequently, AR-123 consistently ranks as one of the twistiest roads in Arkansas and a true hidden gem for sport-touring and sportbike riders.

Because it’s less famous than the Pig Trail, you’ll often have the pavement to yourself. Whether you’re searching for the best motorcycle rides in Arkansas , twisty Ozark routes near Russellville, or an all-day adventure from Little Rock, AR-123 belongs at the top of your list — especially when Haw Creek Falls is flowing!
(photo: flickr.com)

• START/END: Harrison to Hot Springs
• ROUTE: AR HWY 7
• DISTANCE: 156 miles
• RIDE TIME: 3.5 hours
• BEST TIME: Fall (vibrant colors)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Craving the best long-distance motorcycle ride in Arkansas? Highway 7 is the undisputed king. This epic 156-mile AR-7 masterpiece slices straight through the state, from the lush Ouachita National Forest in the south to the dramatic Ozark National Forest in the north — delivering everything riders dream of.

First, you’ll sweep through pine-covered canyons and sparkling lakes. Next, climb to breathtaking overlooks like Rotary Ann with its “Arkansas Grand Canyon” views. Consequently, Highway 7 consistently ranks as one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in Arkansas and a top-10 ride in the entire South.

Because it combines flowing curves, elevation changes, and almost no traffic outside Hot Springs, it’s perfect for all-day touring. Whether you’re searching for the best motorcycle rides in Arkansas , scenic routes near Little Rock/Hot Springs, or a bucket-list north-south traverse, Highway 7 is the ride locals live for — especially in fall when the foliage explodes!
(photo: E. Cooley)

• STRAT/END: Clarksville to Jasper
• ROUTES: AR-21, AR-16
• DISTANCE: 102 miles
• RIDE TIME: 2.5 hours
• BEST TIME: Spring
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

The Clarksville to Jasper route is pure Ozark magic for motorcycle riders looking for a great road in this part of Arkansas. This remote 102-mile adventure follows AR-21 and AR-16 through the untouched heart of Ozark National Forest , blending technical twisties, flowing sweepers, and jaw-dropping scenery locals love.

First, you’ll carve through deep valleys and abandoned homesteads. Next, highlights like Alum Cove Natural Bridge and sweeping Buffalo River views keep every mile fresh. Consequently, spring brings bear and eagle sightings, while fall explodes with color — making it one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in Arkansas.

Because it’s far from interstates, traffic is almost nonexistent. Whether you’re hunting the best twisty roads near Russellville, remote Ozark rides from Little Rock, or an epic day trip to Jasper, this underrated gem delivers total immersion in Arkansas’ wild beauty.
(photo: arkansas.com)

• START/END: Huntsville to Jasper
• ROUTE: AR-74
• DISTANCE: 56 miles
• RIDE TIME: 1 hour
• BEST TIME: Year-round
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Searching for one of the best motorcycle rides in Arkansas with classic Ozark scenery? Highway 74 is a rider favorite. This flowing 56-mile stretch runs from Huntsville through the beautiful upper Buffalo National River region to Piercetown (Ponca area), delivering smooth sweepers and more technical curves near Ponca that keep every mile engaging.

First, the road winds along crystal-clear rivers and dense forests. Next, wide-open valley views and dramatic bluffs reward you at every turn. Consequently, AR-74 consistently ranks as one of the most scenic and enjoyable motorcycle routes in Arkansas — perfect for relaxed cruising or spirited corner-carving.

Because traffic stays light and the pavement is excellent year-round, it’s ideal for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for the best motorcycle rides near Fayetteville , twisty Ozark roads from Little Rock, or a peaceful half-day escape, Highway 74 through the Buffalo River country is pure Arkansas gold — especially when the foliage peaks in fall!
(photo: D. Davis)

• START/END: Mena to Oklahoma line (Rich Mountain)
• ROUTE: AR-88
• DISTANCE: 18 miles
• RIDE TIME: 30 min
• BEST TIME: Fall (peak foliage)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Craving the best scenic motorcycle ride in Arkansas with endless views? The Talimena Scenic Drive on AR-88 is unbeatable. This breathtaking 18-mile Arkansas section climbs Rich Mountain from Mena to the Oklahoma line, hugging the ridge of the Ouachita National Forest with sweeping curves, steep switchbacks, and jaw-dropping 100-mile panoramas.

First, the road delivers smooth elevation changes and gentle sweepers perfect for cruisers or sport-tourers. Next, countless pull-offs let you soak in the vast Ouachita valleys below. Consequently, Talimena consistently ranks as one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in Arkansas and a top fall foliage ride in the entire South.

Because fog can roll in quickly on the ridge, early mornings are ideal. Whether you’re searching for the best motorcycle rides in Arkansas, panoramic routes near Hot Springs, or an unforgettable Ouachita adventure, the Talimena Scenic Drive is pure riding heaven — especially when the leaves explode in autumn color!
(photo: A. Butterfield)

• START/END: Norfolk to Mountain View
• ROUTES: AR-341, AR-14, AR-87
• DISTANCE: 46 miles
• RIDE TIME: 1 hour
• BEST TIME: Fall (vibrant foliage)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Searching for the best twisty motorcycle ride in Arkansas that rivals the Pig Trail? Push Mountain Road (AR-341) to Mountain View is pure Ozark adrenaline. This underrated 46-mile blast combines AR-341’s relentless switchbacks and sheer drop-offs with the flowing curves of AR-14 and AR-87, delivering non-stop technical thrills through remote Ozark National Forest .

First, conquer Push Mountain’s blind crests and hairpin madness. Next, descend into deep valleys before cruising into charming Mountain View — the folk music capital of Arkansas. Consequently, locals rank it as one of the twistiest and most challenging motorcycle roads in Arkansas, often with even better pavement than the famous Pig Trail.

Because traffic is almost nonexistent, you’ll own the road. Whether you’re looking for the best motorcycle rides in Arkansas, twisty Ozark routes near Little Rock, or a perfect day loop with Blanchard Springs Caverns nearby, Push Mountain to Mountain View is a must-ride — especially when fall foliage turns the valleys into a color explosion!
(photo: arkansas.com)

GreatMotorcycleRoads.com is the place to find the best motorcycle roads and rides near Arkansas and the Southeast United States. Discover more great motorcycle roads in the Southeast with our detailed route descriptions and Google Maps links!