Let’s take a leisurely drive north along Arkansas Highway 59, covering roughly 10 scenic miles from the quiet community of Barling to the historic heart of Van Buren. This stretch might not be the longest, but it delivers a great mix of riverfront views, park access, and a taste of small-town Arkansas charm—all packed into a short but satisfying route.
We begin our journey at the junction with Arkansas Highway 22, right in Barling’s modest downtown. Heading north, it doesn’t take long before we find ourselves gliding past Springhill Park, a local favorite for riverside picnics and camping. If you’ve got the time, it’s well worth pulling off here—there’s boat access, shady spots under tall trees, and a calm atmosphere perfect for watching barges ease down the river.
Not far past Springhill Park, AR-59 takes us over the James W. Trimble Lock & Dam, which is more than just a crossing—it’s a key piece of infrastructure that manages the Arkansas River’s flow for navigation and flood control. As we roll across the dam, take a glance to your right: the wide river bends gently through rolling lowlands, a reminder of how deeply the water shapes life in this region.
Once we cross into Crawford County, Highway 59 hugs the river’s north bank for a bit. The road’s gentle curves here follow the water’s edge, and on a clear day, you can spot fishermen casting lines or families enjoying picnic tables at Dam Site North Recreation Area. This stretch feels especially peaceful—just enough open space and greenery to give us a taste of Arkansas’s riparian landscape without straying too far from civilization.
A mile or so past Dam Site North, we swing back north, still shadowing the river. Soon enough, the scattered woods and open patches give way to the outskirts of Van Buren, a town known for its historic downtown and well-preserved Main Street. Entering town from the southeast, Highway 59 weaves into a more urban rhythm, passing neighborhood streets like 28th Street before meeting up with the busy interchange at Interstate 540.
From here, AR-59 carries us straight toward Van Buren’s core. It’s a pleasant stretch through older residential areas and small businesses, leading us right into downtown. We wrap up this drive at the intersection with U.S. Highway 64, also known locally as Broadway Street—just steps from Van Buren’s historic train depot and the quaint shops and eateries lining Main Street. If you have time, park the car and stroll the sidewalks; it’s an easy way to soak up the local heritage that this short route hints at around every bend.
🗺️ Route Map
0 Comments