If you’re looking for a short but scenic drive that takes you from the outskirts of a bustling resort city into the heart of natural Arkansas beauty, Arkansas Highway 227 is a route worth exploring. Stretching just over 12 miles, this northbound road begins in Piney—just west of Hot Springs—and winds through forested hills and small communities before ending inside one of the most beautiful state parks in the region: Lake Ouachita State Park. Whether you’re heading to the lake for a weekend getaway or just enjoying a leisurely drive through west-central Arkansas, this route offers a peaceful transition from town to tranquility.
We begin our journey at the intersection of U.S. Highway 270 and AR-227 in Piney. As we head north, we’re quickly greeted by a mix of local attractions and natural scenery. Not far up the road, travelers pass the Mid-America Science Museum, a family-friendly stop that’s known for its hands-on exhibits and striking outdoor installations nestled in the woods. Just a bit further north is National Park College, a reminder that this area blends education and exploration side by side. As we ascend gently out of the Hot Springs metro area and pass the intersection with Blacksnake Road, development gives way to denser woods and a more rural feel.
Soon after leaving the city limits, we enter Mountain Pine—a small, quiet community that once thrived around the lumber industry. Here, Arkansas Highway 227 takes a jog to the right at the junction with AR-192 west. Staying on 227, we continue our climb through the Ouachita foothills, surrounded by pine forests and occasional peeks of the rugged terrain this region is known for. About three miles later, we pass another connection with AR-192—this time heading east—and press northward into the entrance of Lake Ouachita State Park.
The last few miles of the route are arguably the most serene. Highway 227 narrows slightly as it threads deeper into the park, where the trees close in and the lake’s vastness begins to peek through the branches. Upon arriving at the state park’s main area, the road leads us directly to the visitor center and marina—our final destination. From here, visitors can launch boats, rent kayaks, hike trails, or simply enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ouachita, one of the largest and cleanest lakes in the state. It’s a perfect bookend to a drive that begins in civilization and ends in pure natural beauty.
Whether you’re planning a weekend at the lake, touring the Hot Springs area, or just enjoying the drive, this short stretch of Arkansas Highway 227 offers a rewarding transition from city life to lake life. It’s a great example of how even short highways in Arkansas can pack in a lot of character—and offer easy access to some of the state’s most treasured outdoor spaces.
🗺️ Route Map
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