Discover the Serenity of Ouachita National Forest

Getting There

• Car

  If you're driving to Ouachita National Forest from anywhere in Arkansas River Valley, start by locating the nearest major highway. Depending on your starting point, you may want to head towards U.S. Highway 70 or U.S. Highway 270. If you are near Hot Springs, take U.S. Highway 70 East. Continue on this route for about 15 miles, and then take the exit toward AR-7 South. Follow AR-7 South for another 5 miles until you reach the entrance to Ouachita National Forest. Look for signs directing you to various trailheads and visitor centers once you are within the park.

• Public Transportation

  To reach Ouachita National Forest using public transportation, first, make your way to the nearest bus station in the Arkansas River Valley. The Greyhound bus service is available in the area, and you can purchase a ticket to Hot Springs, Arkansas. Once you arrive in Hot Springs, you can take a local taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to reach the entrance of Ouachita National Forest. The taxi fare from Hot Springs to the forest entrance typically ranges from $15 to $25, depending on your exact location and the specific area of the forest you wish to visit.

• Bicycle

  For the more adventurous travelers, biking to Ouachita National Forest is an option. Ensure you have a reliable bicycle and gear for the journey. From Hot Springs, you can take the Hot Springs Greenway Trail, which connects to several routes leading into the forest. The bike ride will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace, and it’s about a 10-mile ride. Be sure to wear a helmet and bring sufficient water, as there may not be many stops along the way.