Arkansas Highway 356: Quitman

If you’re looking for a quick but memorable journey through north-central Arkansas, Arkansas Highway 356 in Quitman offers just the right mix of small-town sights and classic rural scenery. Our drive covers a short but eventful 2-mile stretch of this state highway, giving us a taste of Quitman’s character while connecting two important local routes.

We begin at the very eastern end of AR-356, right at the intersection with Arkansas Highway 25. This spot marks the edge of Quitman, a friendly community known for its welcoming atmosphere and a glimpse of authentic Arkansas living. Heading north out of Quitman, the road immediately treats us to a blend of residential homes and open countryside. If you’re a fan of small-town Americana, this section is full of charming front porches, local churches, and well-tended yards. During the right season, you might catch a whiff of fresh-cut grass or spot a few kids on bikes riding down quiet side streets.

As we continue, the landscape shifts seamlessly into rolling farmland and a handful of wooded patches. The short length of AR-356 here doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see—keep an eye out for scenic barns, grazing cattle, and wildflowers that line the roadside during spring and summer. The pace is easy, with gentle curves and just enough elevation change to offer glimpses of the surrounding hills. For those who enjoy roadside photography, these open vistas can be surprisingly picturesque, especially during golden hour.

Not far up the road, we reach the intersection with Arkansas Highway 225. This junction marks the northern edge of Quitman’s local grid and acts as a gateway to more rural adventures. If you stay on AR-225, you’ll head north toward Cross Roads, passing through even more open country and rural communities. Meanwhile, AR-356 bends west here, venturing further into the countryside toward more remote corners of Cleburne County.

What’s worth noting about this quick drive is how it captures the spirit of rural Arkansas: friendly faces, quiet landscapes, and a sense that time moves just a little slower. If you’re passing through, consider making a stop in Quitman itself—maybe grab a bite at a local eatery, take a stroll downtown, or visit one of the small parks that dot the area. For road enthusiasts and travelers alike, this segment of AR-356 offers an easygoing and scenic detour off the beaten path, right in the heart of The Natural State.