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SPRING 2017 ISSUE 01 / VOL. 02
Riders gathered at Mount Magazine State Park.
I can easily make in even one long day. Because of that I often spend the night in Fort Smith, whose nickname used to be“ Hell on the border.” Fort Smith is where the“ Hanging Judge,” Issac C. Parker, held court from 1875- 1896. The city has provided inspiration for many movies, including both the original and recent remake of“ True Grit,” and Clint Eastwood’ s“ Hang’ em High.”
After a long day’ s ride, I enjoyed a visit with my brother, who lives in Fort Smith. But I’ m always anxious to get back home because there’ s still fine riding the next day. A large chunk of the 124-mile ride back to Berryville is on U. S. 71, the gorgeous Boston Mountains Scenic Loop. That’ s a fitting end to an excellent two days in the saddle.
Peak-to-Peak Resources: Lum and Abner Museum and Jot’ Em Down Store: Free admission. Open Tuesday-Saturday 9 a. m.-5 p. m. and Sunday noon-5 p. m. 4562 Hwy 88, Pine Ridge, Arkansas 71961;( 870) 326-4442; lum-n-abner. com.
Mount Magazine State Park: Arkansas state park with a lodge and restaurant in the Ozark National Forest, along with camping and other facilities.( 479) 963-8502; mountmagazinestatepark. com.
Queen Wilhelmina State Park: Situated at the crown of gorgeous Rich Mountain in the Ouachita National Forest. Camping, recreation, lodge and restaurant.( 479) 394- 2863; queenwilhelmina. com.
Bikes taking on the gentle curves of Talimena Scenic Drive.