Take a winding ride into the heart of the Boston Mountains as we follow a storied stretch of U.S. Highway 71 from Alma to Brentwood in northwest Arkansas. This 30-mile journey climbs out of the Arkansas River Valley and ascends into forested ridges and hollows—part of the Ozarks that once defined north-south travel before Interstate 49 took over the main flow of traffic. Along the way, we pass through quiet towns, rustic roadside stops, and natural overlooks that reflect both the region’s beauty and its history as a vital travel corridor.
Our journey begins just south of Interstate 40 in Alma, where we turn onto U.S. 71B before quickly merging onto the mainline U.S. 71. As the highway heads north, it pulls away from the Arkansas River lowlands and begins a gradual ascent into the Boston Mountains—part of the larger Ozark Plateau. The scenery quickly shifts from open farmland to thick stands of pine and hardwood. This stretch of road carried the bulk of northbound traffic before the advent of I-49, and its curves, grades, and roadside businesses still echo that golden era of mid-century travel.
Climbing higher, we reach the small town of Mountainburg, nestled against the hills. Just north of town, we cross Frog Bayou and pass the junction with AR-282 before beginning one of the most scenic segments of the route. To the east lies Lake Fort Smith State Park, hidden just beyond the ridge and offering camping, kayaking, and scenic views. And just ahead sits a classic piece of Ozarks roadside Americana: Artist Point. Offering panoramic views over the Boston Mountains and a long-standing gift shop, Artist Point has been drawing travelers since the days of two-tone station wagons. The view from here—especially during autumn’s peak—is one of the most stunning roadside vistas in the region.
Continuing north, the road hugs the ridgeline into Winslow, a historic town once known as a mountain resort thanks to its cool summers and location along the Frisco Railway. While quieter now, Winslow retains much of its turn-of-the-century charm. South of downtown, we intersect Arkansas Highway 74 west, which leads into Devil’s Den State Park—a Civilian Conservation Corps-era park filled with hiking trails, bluffs, and caves. But we stay on U.S. 71 for a final five-mile stretch of shaded curves and roadside pull-offs.
The drive ends just south of Brentwood at the junction with AR-74 east, where the terrain begins to soften into broad pastures and quiet woods. Though bypassed by modern travelers racing up I-49, this historic route still rewards those who take the scenic road. From mountain towns and historic parks to dramatic vistas, the Alma-to-Brentwood corridor along U.S. 71 remains one of Arkansas’s best-kept travel secrets—an essential ride for anyone exploring the natural soul of the Ozarks.
🗺️ Route Map
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