From the Arkansas River Valley wine country to one of the oldest churches in the state, Arkansas Highway 186 offers a short but striking drive filled with both natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This brief 3-mile stretch takes us from the small town of Altus—long celebrated for its wineries and European charm—up and over St. Mary’s Mountain, ending in the scenic hillside village of Wiederkehr, a place steeped in Swiss-German winemaking traditions.
Our journey begins at the intersection of U.S. Highway 64 and AR-186 in Altus. Just minutes into the drive, we pass one of the region’s most iconic establishments: Post Winery. This historic vineyard dates back to the late 1800s and remains Arkansas’ oldest commercial winery. The road here begins to ascend sharply as we climb the south face of St. Mary’s Mountain. It’s a curvy section with tight turns—particularly a pronounced S-curve—that’s nestled in the Ozark foothills, giving the area its distinctive elevation and views. Travelers will quickly understand why this area has been so well suited to grape cultivation for generations.
As we crest the mountain, we encounter St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a towering stone structure built in 1902 by Swiss and German immigrants. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the church stands as a reminder of the town’s European roots and the perseverance of early settlers who brought their winemaking expertise to the fertile hills of northwest Arkansas. This spot is worth a stop, both for the architecture and the panoramic views over the Arkansas River Valley.
Continuing north on AR-186 for another half mile, the route then shifts east as it cuts across the ridge. The terrain flattens slightly, and the road begins to open up to beautiful vistas and vineyard-covered hillsides. As we approach Wiederkehr Village, the famed Wiederkehr Wine Cellar comes into view. This family-owned winery has operated since 1880 and still ferments wine in the original hand-dug cellars—now part of the Wiederkehr Wine & Spirits Historic District. Our route ends right at the entrance to this enduring piece of Arkansas winemaking history, making this drive as flavorful as it is scenic.
Whether you’re exploring Arkansas’s wine country, enjoying the mountain views, or chasing a bit of Ozark heritage, this quick trip along AR-186 is a hidden gem that’s well worth a detour. It’s not just a connector road—it’s a bridge between two historic wine families, cultural landmarks, and a scenic backdrop that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another time.
🗺️ Route Map
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