[Revisited] U.S. Route 167: East End to Sheridan – Arkansas

Starting in the suburban community of East End, just southeast of Little Rock, this 18-mile stretch of U.S. Route 167 offers a smooth and direct drive southward into the heart of Grant County. We begin our journey at the interchange with Interstate 530, where U.S. 167 branches off as a divided highway and heads southwest. After just a few minutes on the road, we pass through East End proper and encounter a key junction with Arkansas Highway 367, an older alignment of the route that still serves as a local thoroughfare.

As we leave East End behind, U.S. 167 curves gently to the south and quickly settles into a more rural rhythm. The wide shoulders and divided highway design make for an easy cruise as the route cuts through wooded terrain and stretches of farmland typical of central Arkansas. Along this section, traffic tends to thin out, making it a relaxing segment for long-distance travelers or commuters heading to or from the Little Rock metro.

Midway through the drive, we pass near the community of Cane Creek. While not a formal town, the area is named for the nearby creek that winds through the pine-covered landscape. There’s a scattering of homes and small businesses here, but it’s mostly a quiet corridor. The surrounding countryside provides a pleasant backdrop, especially during spring and fall when the colors really pop. While there aren’t many formal attractions directly on this portion of the route, it’s a solid example of Arkansas’s transition zone — not quite Delta, not quite Ouachita, but a little taste of both.

As we approach Sheridan, the highway begins to show signs of busier traffic. The outer edges of town feature a mix of commercial development, gas stations, and chain stores. Soon enough, we arrive at the intersection with U.S. Route 167 Business, which marks the historic alignment of the highway through downtown Sheridan. This is where our video ends, but travelers continuing on U.S. 167 southbound will soon bypass the heart of Sheridan and continue toward Fordyce and points beyond.

For those with time to spare, a short detour into downtown Sheridan via the business loop is worth it. You’ll find a classic small-town square, local diners, and a chance to explore more of Grant County’s character. Sheridan is also home to the annual Timberfest, a nod to the area’s deep ties to the lumber industry — a heritage you can still feel as you pass truck after truck hauling timber on the highway.