Arkansas Highway 7: Jasper to Dardanelle

Arkansas Highway 7: Jasper to Dardanelle — A Scenic Descent Through the Ozarks

Arkansas Highway 7 is one of the state’s most iconic scenic byways, and the 71-mile stretch from Jasper to Dardanelle showcases everything that makes the Natural State a favorite for road trippers and motorcyclists alike. Starting in the small, mountain-locked town of Jasper, this route heads south through rugged Ozark landscapes, deep valleys, and dense forest canopies. Almost immediately after leaving town, the road begins its dramatic climb, offering expansive views of what locals call the Arkansas Grand Canyon. It’s not hard to see why—this panoramic overlook reveals rolling layers of the Ozark Plateau in breathtaking fashion, especially in the fall.

Continuing southbound, Highway 7 enters the Ozark National Forest, where the road becomes a ribbon of curves and elevation changes. This portion of the drive is particularly popular with motorcyclists, thanks to its engaging turns and dense scenery. Just before reaching Sand Gap, we encounter the junction with AR-16 and then AR-123 north—better known to riders as the Arkansas Dragon for its tight, technical curves. Sand Gap itself is a tiny crossroads, but a significant landmark where several scenic routes intersect, making it a common stopping point for travelers navigating the forest’s winding roads.

As we leave the highlands behind, the road begins to stretch out and mellow through small communities like Victor, Treat, and Pelsor, though none are more than wide spots in the road. After passing intersections with AR-164 and AR-333, we enter Dover, a quiet town that marks the transition from rugged forest to the Arkansas River Valley. Here, Highway 7 briefly joins AR-27 before continuing south on a noticeably wider and straighter alignment. This section is more urbanized, and the road becomes a four-lane highway with a center turn lane, reflecting the increasing proximity to Russellville.

Once in Russellville, AR-7 takes on a more urban feel as it becomes Arkansas Avenue. This stretch passes Arkansas Tech University, a central hub of local activity, before reaching the intersection with U.S. Highway 64—Main Street in Russellville. Despite the town’s growth, AR-7 retains its local charm with tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community. From here, the road continues south, crossing AR-247 and then the Arkansas River via the Dardanelle Bridge, providing a brief but scenic waterfront view.

Crossing the river brings us into Dardanelle, a historic town on the southern bank of the river and the end point of this segment. We conclude the journey at the intersection with AR-22, just blocks from downtown Dardanelle and the base of Mount Nebo State Park, another gem for those wanting to extend their trip.