If you’re ready for a quick but scenic urban drive in Northwest Arkansas, let’s take a cruise together along Arkansas Highway 265, better known to locals as Crossover Road. This stretch covers about 5 miles across the east side of Fayetteville, starting at AR-16 in the south and ending at Joyce Boulevard in the north. It’s an easygoing trip, but there’s more here than just another city arterial—Crossover Road offers a unique blend of natural beauty, local landmarks, and glimpses into the daily life of Fayetteville.
We kick things off at the intersection of AR-16 (Huntsville Road) and AR-265, where Crossover Road also carries the honorary name “Dick Trammel Highway.” Heading north, the drive immediately gives you a sense of Fayetteville’s rolling landscape. While this isn’t a mountain pass, the gentle hills and pockets of trees set the scene for a relaxing ride. The south end of Crossover is a great spot to spot local traffic heading to the University of Arkansas, but if you look east, you’ll see green spaces and even some rural remnants hanging on as the city grows.
A few minutes into our journey, we pass through one of Fayetteville’s busiest intersections at Mission Boulevard. This is where AR-45 intersects, and you’ll notice a real mix of local flair: small businesses, coffee shops, and easy access to the historic Washington-Willow district just a few blocks west. If you’re in the area, Mission Boulevard is worth exploring—stop in at a neighborhood café or take a detour through Wilson Park, a city gem known for its castle-themed playground and open green spaces.
Continuing north, the character of Crossover Road shifts to modern Fayetteville. The two-mile run between Mission and Joyce is lined with residential neighborhoods, churches, and the occasional office complex. Don’t let the suburban vibe fool you, though—there’s plenty to see if you’re paying attention. On your right, Lake Fayetteville and its scenic trails sit just a stone’s throw away. If you have time, hop off at Zion Road and explore the park, which features a paved loop trail, disc golf, fishing piers, and the beautiful Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. It’s one of the best spots in Fayetteville for a walk, a picnic, or a quick escape from city traffic.
As we approach the end of our drive, Joyce Boulevard signals the transition to Fayetteville’s bustling shopping and dining corridor. This area has just about every modern convenience you could want, with plenty of restaurants and big-box stores nearby. But even here, the Ozark hills are never far away—look north and you’ll spot ridges peeking out above the rooftops, reminding you that the city’s natural beauty is always part of the package.
In short, Arkansas Highway 265’s Crossover Road is more than just a thoroughfare; it’s a slice of Fayetteville life that moves from historic neighborhoods to suburban growth and onward to the city’s commercial heart—all in just five miles. Whether you’re a local commuter or a road trip enthusiast, this route offers a great window into what makes Fayetteville unique.
🗺️ Route Map
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