City Escape: Springfield, Missouri

The Ozark Mountain region of Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas provides one of the best motorcycling venues in central U.S. The combination of vibrant scenery, rural mountain roads, historic Civil War sites, and the iconic Victorian village of Eureka Springs, AR, makes this route a pleasing riding escape from Springfield, MO.

The route follows rolling country roads into the heart of the Ozark’s Boston Mountains and Eureka Springs. Lush vegetation and scenic vistas are frequent companions along the way. Traffic is generally light, except on weekends along Eureka Springs’ narrow and winding Main St. The route also may become congested as it passes near Branson, MO.

The roads follow substantial elevation changes and numerous blind curves. Nevertheless, they are appropriate for most experienced street riders. The roads are paved and generally in good condition.

Lunch Stop

Aquarius Taqueria Restaurant serves local flavors inspired by Mexican street food on handmade tortillas, in addition to delicious margaritas. Find it at 91 S Main St, Eureka Springs, AR, (479) 253-6888.

Points of Interest

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
The Confederate victory here on August 10, 1861, was the first major battle in what became the western theater of the American Civil War. This National Park System site receives over 200,000 visitors a year. Find it at 6424 W Farm Rd 182, Republic, MO.

Beaver Bridge
It’s easy to see how the Beaver Bridge earned the moniker “Little Golden Gate Bridge of Arkansas.” Although this bridge spans 554 feet, it’s only 11 feet wide, making it a one-lane motorway. Find it where SR 187 crosses the White River in Beaver, AR.

Eureka Springs, AR
This Victorian village, with its winding mountainside streets, was named by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as one of its “Dozen Distinctive Destinations.” Historic buildings contain unique shops, boutiques, art galleries, and craft emporiums.