Join us for a scenic 66-mile journey along Arkansas Highway 7, one of the most beloved scenic byways in the state, as we make our way north from Russellville to Jasper. This stretch of road showcases the rich variety of landscapes that Arkansas has to offer—from rolling farmland and college-town charm to the rugged beauty of the Ozark National Forest. Whether you’re in it for the drive, the overlooks, or the chance to slow down and soak in small-town life, this route doesn’t disappoint.
We begin our drive at the intersection of AR-7 and Parkway Avenue, in the heart of downtown Russellville. As we head north, we pass the campus of Arkansas Tech University and then cross under Interstate 40, marking the transition from cityscape to a more open, transitional terrain. The highway starts off as a modern four-lane road, providing a smooth ride through the outskirts of town. But just before Dover—about eight miles in—it narrows to two lanes, a sign that we’re leaving the commuter corridor behind and heading into more rural territory.
As we wind through Dover, AR-7 makes a slight jog west, then quickly resumes its northern course. Just northwest of town, we pass the junction with AR-333 and soon afterward, AR-164. This is where the scenery begins to shift significantly. The route enters the southern edge of the Ozark National Forest, and with it comes a noticeable change in road character—gentle curves at first, then tighter turns as we climb higher into the forested hills. The road here has earned its place as part of the Scenic 7 Byway for good reason. Look for pull-offs and scenic areas—you’ll want to stop and take it all in.
At Sand Gap, an important crossroads deep in the Ozarks, AR-7 intersects with AR-16 to the east and AR-123 to the south. We stay the course on Highway 7 as it turns slightly northwest, hugging the terrain and climbing ever higher into the rugged hill country. Just north of Sand Gap, we pass the intersection with AR-123 again—this time its northern section—before continuing northwest toward Deer. This small community serves as a gateway to the most visually dramatic part of the drive.
Leaving Deer behind, Highway 7 ramps up in terms of elevation shifts and curve complexity. The last 15 or so miles of this route are pure Ozark drama. The dense forest occasionally thins out just enough to offer jaw-dropping views over the valleys below. One of the most iconic spots along this segment is the Arkansas Grand Canyon—a sweeping overlook just south of Jasper that offers a panoramic view of the Big Creek Valley. It’s a favorite photo stop and for good reason.
As we descend into Jasper, the road makes a steep and winding drop into the heart of Newton County’s seat. Entering town from the southeast, we follow AR-7 down into a narrow valley, eventually arriving on Stone Street. At Court Street, we turn right and end our drive, though AR-7 continues north toward Harrison if you’re up for more. Jasper itself is worth a stop, with its historic courthouse square, old-school diners, and proximity to outdoor adventures like hiking the nearby Buffalo National River area.
🗺️ Route Map
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