Buckle up as we drive 14 scenic miles across one of Arkansas’s most rugged and picturesque backroads: Arkansas Highway 74 from Ponca to Jasper. This stretch may be short on distance, but it’s long on charm—and full of curves, climbs, and jaw-dropping views of the Ozark National Forest and Buffalo National River region. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a curious traveler passing through the Boston Mountains, this route offers a peaceful escape into one of the Natural State’s most beloved corners.
We begin our journey in the tiny town of Ponca, where AR-74 branches off from Highway 43. Ponca itself is a destination for nature lovers and elk watchers, with the Boxley Valley nearby and regular sightings of elk grazing in open fields. Before we gain any elevation, we cross the Buffalo National River—a defining landmark in Arkansas and the nation’s first designated National River. The bridge here offers great views of the river and surrounding bluffs, especially in the early morning when the mist hovers above the water. Just past the bridge, the climb begins—and it’s a steep one.
Arkansas 74 wastes no time taking us up into the Boston Mountains. Not far from Ponca, we reach a dramatic 180-degree switchback that hairpins its way around a mountaintop. This part of the road is narrow and tightly curved, so it’s not for the faint of heart—but the payoff is worth it. As we wind our way upward, the views open up to reveal wooded hillsides, rock outcroppings, and expansive ridgelines. In autumn, this section lights up with brilliant fall colors, and in spring, dogwoods and redbuds decorate the slopes.
Once we crest the mountain, the road settles into a more relaxed, meandering pace as it angles southeast through the forest toward Low Gap. This tiny community may be little more than a dot on the map, but it’s a favorite stop for travelers thanks to the Low Gap Café, a rustic and charming restaurant tucked right off the highway. Whether you’re after a hearty Arkansas breakfast or a leisurely dinner, it’s a great place to pause and take in the quiet beauty of the area.
From Low Gap, we continue northeast briefly before swinging back southeast toward Mount Sherman. This part of Highway 74 is more wooded and remote, with dense forest hemming in both sides of the roadway. Expect to see the occasional deer or wild turkey here, especially in the early morning or evening hours. At Mount Sherman, we begin our descent into Jasper, losing the elevation we gained earlier in the drive as the road twists gently down through hardwood forest.
Entering Jasper, the vibe changes from remote to rustic small town. We pass the northern terminus of Arkansas Highway 327, which heads south toward Parthenon and eventually Deer. In town, Highway 74 continues for another couple of blocks before reaching its eastern end at Arkansas Highway 7, Jasper’s main north-south artery. From here, you can head south into the heart of town or continue north toward the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway.
Jasper itself is a gem—pun intended. This quiet mountain town serves as the county seat of Newton County and is surrounded on all sides by national forest and protected lands. It’s a popular basecamp for hiking, floating, and exploring the Upper Buffalo River area. If you’re sticking around, be sure to check out nearby hiking trails like the Lost Valley Trail or explore the scenic pullouts along AR-7 north of town.
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