U.S. Highway 70: Benton to Hot Springs – Arkansas

Come ride with us for a scenic and convenient 19-mile stretch westbound on U.S. Highway 70 as we cruise from the suburban town of Benton to the charming, historic city of Hot Springs, Arkansas. We kick things off merging onto US-70 directly from Interstate 30 just southwest of Benton — a quick and smooth on-ramp that sets the tone for this well-traveled connector between Central Arkansas’s growing suburban region and one of the state’s most popular getaway spots. (Note: this interchange has been upgraded since this video was produced)

Shortly after getting underway, we make a brief pit stop for fuel — a common sight along this corridor, as US-70 serves daily commuters, weekenders headed to Hot Springs’ famous spas and bathhouses, and long-haul traffic alike. Back on the road, we quickly pass the junction with Arkansas Highway 88, a handy local spur that offers routes toward Lonsdale and nearby communities. Not long after, we roll through the signalized intersection with AR-128, marking the gradual shift from the outskirts of Benton’s suburban sprawl into the more wooded and gently rolling terrain typical of this part of the state.

Staying on U.S. Highway 70, the drive remains mostly a straightforward two-lane highway with occasional passing zones and a few well-maintained roadside businesses. About eight miles out from Benton, the road gently curves southwest, threading its way through pockets of pine forest and the occasional open pastureland. It’s not an especially winding route, but you’ll notice a few gentle hills and dips that break up the flat stretches and add some visual variety to the drive.

As we draw closer to Hot Springs, the transition becomes more noticeable: traffic increases, signage for local attractions pops up, and the tree-lined shoulders start giving way to clusters of commercial buildings and neighborhoods. Just before we reach the city limits, US-70 splits at an interchange with U.S. Highway 70B — the older business route that dives directly into downtown Hot Springs, offering a more urban vibe compared to the mainline highway’s bypass around the city center. We wrap up this drive by taking the exit ramp onto US-70B, perfectly positioned for a day of sightseeing, spa hopping, or maybe even a visit to Hot Springs National Park.

This video is dedicated to the memory of Cindy Adams. Friend and fellow rider.