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Summary

This road trip through Northwest Arkansas offers a blend of natural beauty, unique cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. From the historic and vibrant streets of Little Rock to the breathtaking heights of Mount Magazine, the serene beauty of Subiaco Abbey, and the adventurous trails of the Pig Trail Scenic Byway. The journey continues through the charming town of Paris, the lively college town of Fayetteville, and culminates in a canoe trip on the scenic Buffalo National River. This itinerary is perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.

🚗 Day 1: Exploring Little Rock & Mount Magazine

Begin your adventure in Little Rock, gathering essentials and enjoying the River Market District, before heading to Mount Magazine for breathtaking views and outdoor activities.

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🏛️ Arkansas Capitol Building

A perfect starting point to gather maps, guides, and expert tips for your road trip. The Arkansas Capitol building's visitor center provides valuable resources to plan your journey effectively.

Tips

Visit early to plan your trip over a picnic lunch in the nearby River Market District.

Travel Information
🌐   Website: https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/state-capitol
📍   Address: 500 Woodlane St, Little Rock, AR 72201

⛰️ Mount Magazine State Park

Home to the state's highest peak and diverse ecosystems, Mount Magazine State Park offers stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. The park's visitor center provides insights into the unique geological formations and the rich biodiversity of the area.

Tips

Don't miss the Overlook Drive for incredible vistas; consider staying in a cabin for an extended adventure. The park's technical rock climbing and hang-gliding launch areas offer thrilling experiences for adventure enthusiasts.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (479) 963-8502
🌐   Website: http://www.mountmagazinestatepark.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1.5 hours
📍   Address: 577 Lodge Dr, Paris, AR 72855

🚗 Day 2: Subiaco, Paris, and Pig Trail Adventure

A day filled with unique stops from a Benedictine Abbey in Subiaco to the charming town of Paris, ending with a scenic drive through the Pig Trail.

🏰 Subiaco Abbey

Immerse yourself in Benedictine hospitality at the Subiaco Abbey, where the serene beauty of the 1,800-acre property and the Romanesque-style Abbey offer a tranquil escape. Indulge in the craft beer and potent hot sauce made by the monks, and explore the grand church and courtyard for a spiritual experience.

Tips

Visit on Saturday for the taproom experience, and don't miss the monks' mid-day prayer for a truly immersive and contemplative encounter.

🗼 Paris, Arkansas

Paris, Arkansas, is a quaint town that offers a slice of Parisian charm with its own Eiffel Tower Park. The park features a tower-turned fountain and a love-lock fence, providing a light-hearted and romantic atmosphere reminiscent of its European namesake.

Tips

Perfect for a light-hearted photo op at the Eiffel Tower fountain and love-lock fence, capturing the essence of this unique and picturesque setting.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (479) 963-2450
🌐   Website: http://www.parisarkansas.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 45 min
📍   Address: 12 N Express St, Paris, AR 72855

🛣️ Pig Trail Scenic Byway

The Pig Trail Scenic Byway winds through the Ozark National Forest, offering stunning natural beauty with its winding road, beautiful bluffs, and the wild Mulberry River. Consider a float trip on the river or camping at Redding Campground for a full experience of this picturesque route.

Tips

Cool down with a stop at Pig Trail Falls, and consider camping at Redding Campground for a serene and immersive experience amidst the natural beauty of the area.

🚗 Day 3: Fayetteville to Buffalo River

• Explore the vibrant college town of Fayetteville before embarking on an adventurous canoe trip on the Buffalo River.

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🏞️ Fayetteville, Arkansas

Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a lively college town with a rich history, vibrant nightlife, and boutique accommodations. It is the home of the University of Arkansas Razorbacks and boasts a legacy of academics, politicians, and artists. The Fayetteville Historic Square, UArk Campus, and Dickson Street offer a mix of cultural experiences, from historic landmarks to lively entertainment venues.

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Tips

Stay at the Graduate for a unique experience, as it is a cool boutique hotel chain only located in top university towns. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy live music at George’s Majestic Lounge, Arkansas’ oldest and longest running live-music venue.

🌊 Buffalo National River

The Buffalo National River is the country's first National River, offering scenic beauty, canoeing adventures, and tranquil mountaintop cabins. Managed by the National Park System, this 95,000-acre wilderness is adorned with verdant mountains, limestone cliffs, and historic villages, providing a perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Tips

Book a canoe service from the Buffalo Outdoor Center for the full experience of paddling the 10-mile stretch from Ponca to Kyle’s Landing, hugging the cliffs, riding rapids, and exploring multiple waterfalls. Additionally, don't miss the chance to stay in a mountaintop cabin with breathtaking valley views and a hot tub to relax under the countless stars.