2024 Tour Planning

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12-14-2023, 08:13 AM
Jesster72

2024 Tour Planning

Last year, we toured Pennsylvania, and you guys and gals on this site really came through with awesome suggestions. We listened to you, and saw some amazing things, and rode some amazing 2 lanes. I appreciate every one who gave us input.

I am starting my 2024 trip plans. I am planning a tour of Western Arkansas and Eastern Oklahoma. (I do plan on stopping at Lamonsters :doorag: on the way down, and Spyderpops :clap: later when we are in Hot Springs.) I will also say, that we did spend some time around Hot Springs in 2019 on our Victory, but we decided it was worth visiting the area again on the Spyder (and stopping at the shops mentioned above:thumbup:).

So, good people of this forum, I am once again asking for your input of what to see and do as we spend several days in Hot Springs, and several more in Eureka Springs in June or July of 2024. Any and all suggestions are appreciated, and I have time to investigate them all since I am starting early (and the bike is put away for the winter).

Thank you!
12-14-2023, 08:30 AM
Wmoater

Not sure what type of person you are as in planning but this set of maps is well worth helping in the planning area. They are free and will mail it directly to you. Once you see the different routes then plug into garmin.

https://exploreharrison.com/guide/?f...7FvLHnQVHgUzuI
12-14-2023, 08:51 AM
Jesster72

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wmoater

Not sure what type of person you are as in planning but this set of maps is well worth helping in the planning area. They are free and will mail it directly to you. Once you see the different routes then plug into garmin.

https://exploreharrison.com/guide/?f...7FvLHnQVHgUzuI

Wmoater, planning is actually my job, I just wish it was planning motorcycle trips and then being able to take them all the time. I plan raw materials for a manufacturing company, so I like to have trips mostly planned out, with room for adjustment or adlib as needed.

Your suggestion fits right into how I plan our motorcycle trips. Thank you, and the guide has been requested!
12-14-2023, 12:11 PM
ARtraveler

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jesster72

Last year, we toured Pennsylvania, and you guys and gals on this site really came through with awesome suggestions. We listened to you, and saw some amazing things, and rode some amazing 2 lanes. I appreciate every one who gave us input.

I am starting my 2024 trip plans. I am planning a tour of Western Arkansas and Eastern Oklahoma. (I do plan on stopping at Lamonsters :doorag: on the way down, and Spyderpops :clap: later when we are in Hot Springs.) I will also say, that we did spend some time around Hot Springs in 2019 on our Victory, but we decided it was worth visiting the area again on the Spyder (and stopping at the shops mentioned above:thumbup:).

So, good people of this forum, I am once again asking for your input of what to see and do as we spend several days in Hot Springs, and several more in Eureka Springs in June or July of 2024. Any and all suggestions are appreciated, and I have time to investigate them all since I am starting early (and the bike is put away for the winter).

Thank you!

NW Arkansas is a must see place. Twisty roads, fabulous scenery, and nice people. You will like Eureka Springs, and Hot Springs. I also recommend a stop at Mt. Magazine State Park. The highest point in AR. They have a great resort there for an overnight or two. It is located in Paris AR--about mid point between Eureka and Hot Springs. Send for the AR Motorcycle routes book from AR Department of Tourism. It covers the whole state and has pages and pages of suggested rides. Your stop at Lamonsters is also worth it.
12-14-2023, 05:19 PM
Poppie65

My wife and I visited Queen Wilhelmina State park last year and stayed a couple of night in the lodge. It's very well kept and has great hiking adjacent.

https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/p...ina-state-park

Almost forgot to mention that we stopped for a couple of days in Hot Springs as well. There's hiking there also, but the highlight was getting a hot springs spa experience. We'd do that again without hesitation.
12-14-2023, 08:26 PM
IdahoMtnSpyder

I don't remember which N-S road it is, but one of the highways from AR to MO is a really pretty roller coaster of a road, up and down, up and down, for miles. And you'll be close enough to Branson, MO to make it worthwhile considering spending some time there.
12-14-2023, 09:28 PM
JayBros

Visit this site, http://https://www.exploreharrison.com/, and order Motorcycle Riding Guide of the Ozarks. My touring partner and I spent 10 days there back in June. Lots of fun roads to ride. If you do go, take a tour of the Ranger Boat Factory in Flippin. You'll see how other blokes shovel big bucks at fun things.
12-14-2023, 09:58 PM
Bfromla

Quote:

Originally Posted by IdahoMtnSpyder

I don't remember which N-S road it is, but one of the highways from AR to MO is a really pretty roller coaster of a road, up and down, up and down, for miles. And you'll be close enough to Branson, MO to make it worthwhile considering spending some time there.

That would be HWY 7 :doorag: :riding: :riding: :riding: awesome views that need to be seen going either/both directions. :firstplace:
12-15-2023, 01:24 AM
IdahoMtnSpyder

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bfromla

That would be HWY 7 :doorag: :riding: :riding: :riding: awesome views that need to be seen going either/both directions. :firstplace:

Thanks. I was sure someone would pop in with the answer.
12-15-2023, 12:20 PM
ARtraveler

Quote:

Originally Posted by IdahoMtnSpyder

I don't remember which N-S road it is, but one of the highways from AR to MO is a really pretty roller coaster of a road, up and down, up and down, for miles. And you'll be close enough to Branson, MO to make it worthwhile considering spending some time there.

HWY 65 meets that description, and goes right through Branson. The great scenery is Between Branson and Harrison AR.
12-15-2023, 12:24 PM
ARtraveler

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bfromla

That would be HWY 7 :doorag: :riding: :riding: :riding: awesome views that need to be seen going either/both directions. :firstplace:

7 is definitely more scenic than 65....it goes forever between Harrison and South Arkansas. North of Harrison, it goes to Lead Hill AR then connects with 14 which will continue up through parts of Missouri.
12-15-2023, 06:13 PM
computek

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bfromla

That would be HWY 7 :doorag: :riding: :riding: :riding: awesome views that need to be seen going either/both directions. :firstplace:

65 is a rather good road as well. I take that from Conway up to Nixa when I go. My late brother lived in Nixa.
12-18-2023, 04:51 PM
Jesster72

So for the first day is just getting from home to Lamonster's shop, hoping like heck it's open when we get there, and staying in Branson after that visit. About 500 miles.
Day 2 is Branson to Peel's Ferry, then on to Hot springs Via Harrison and the Pig Trail. That will take us across AR Rt 7 and down Rt 23. About 275 miles.
12-18-2023, 09:01 PM
Poasttown

About 15 years ago a group of us visited a tiger and lion rescue center in the Eureka Springs area called Turpentine Creek Wildlife Rescue. At that time they would take in tigers from individuals and organizations for various reasons. It was an interesting visit. From what I understand they have expanded their offerings and activities. . Search Turpentine Creek and you will find their website.

Poasttown
2019 F3L
12-19-2023, 12:05 AM
Bfromla

On my list: restaurant on the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks :doorag::popcorn: https://cliffhouseinnar.com/ go ahead & stretch legs with natural wonders
Just across state line into Oklahoma & have done :firstplace::doorag: https://www.travelok.com/state-parks...lls-state-park Stayed in Siloam spring for Bikes Blues BBQ in Fayetteville also Quite good Various time of year whole area can be just fun to roam:popcorn::riding::riding: ENJOY
12-19-2023, 12:30 PM
ARtraveler

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bfromla

On my list: restaurant on the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks :doorag::popcorn: https://cliffhouseinnar.com/ go ahead & stretch legs with natural wonders
Just across state line into Oklahoma & have done :firstplace::doorag: https://www.travelok.com/state-parks...lls-state-park Stayed in Siloam spring for Bikes Blues BBQ in Fayetteville also Quite good Various time of year whole area can be just fun to roam:popcorn::riding::riding: ENJOY

The restaurant at the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks is indeed a great place. Views to die for, food, a notch above average fare along highway 7. We go there a couple times a year. :yes:
12-19-2023, 02:11 PM
Adventurer

Quote:

Originally Posted by ARtraveler

The restaurant at the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks is indeed a great place. Views to die for, food, a notch above average fare along highway 7. We go there a couple times a year. :yes:

Agree 100% Views are great and food is just ok.
12-20-2023, 10:04 AM
easysuper

You don't say how many days you are taking on your trip, but I would check out BunkaBiker as a resorce to stay and ask about local rides. Its a great way to stretch your travel budget and meet some wonderful people.
12-27-2023, 08:12 PM
TroubledJuan

There lots of great suggestions, and I have ridden almost all of them. But... let me remind you of the heat and humidity...

Last time I was down there it was mid-June, and I was ill-prepared for the heat or humidity. I stayed at a motel near the old Dog Patch USA. But the heat and humidity took its toll. I understand it bothers some, and doesn't affect others, but I just want to remind you to be prepared!
12-27-2023, 11:00 PM
BCNewell

When you get the maps, make sure you give yourself some time to explore the roads to the SW of Harrison. Very good twisty roads through Boxley, Lurton, Jasper areas.

And the Talimena Scenic Byway between Talihina, OK (OK 1) and Mena, AR (AR 88) is a great ride. I think. Was foggy as all get-out the time I rode it, but sure had lots of scenic overlooks.
12-28-2023, 12:50 PM
Jesster72

Quote:

Originally Posted by easysuper

You don't say how many days you are taking on your trip, but I would check out BunkaBiker as a resorce to stay and ask about local rides. Its a great way to stretch your travel budget and meet some wonderful people.

Most likely 10 days. I'll check that out, thank you!
12-28-2023, 12:51 PM
Jesster72

Quote:

Originally Posted by TroubledJuan

There lots of great suggestions, and I have ridden almost all of them. But... let me remind you of the heat and humidity...

Last time I was down there it was mid-June, and I was ill-prepared for the heat or humidity. I stayed at a motel near the old Dog Patch USA. But the heat and humidity took its toll. I understand it bothers some, and doesn't affect others, but I just want to remind you to be prepared!

We tolerate heat/humidity pretty well. Both of us are "cold blooded" so we prefer heat over cool conditions. I appreciate that reminder.
12-28-2023, 12:57 PM
Jesster72

so after more research, some cool brochures arriving in the mail, we have our timeframe (not dates) in mind.
Day 1 - Lamonsters
Day 2- down to Hot Springs on Rt 7, we will catch the Pig Trail when we stay in Eureka Springs later in the trip.
days in Hot Springs and a stop at Spyderpops for more goodies.
days in Eureka Springs
days to get back home.......

I'm still writing down your suggestions and I'll put an itinerary together once we get closer to lift off.
Thank you all for reading along and for your suggestions.