Arkansas Highway 9: Williams Junction to Perryville

Join us for a 10-mile drive north along Arkansas Highway 9 as we journey from the quiet crossroads of Williams Junction up through the scenic foothills of the Ouachita Mountains and into the welcoming town of Perryville.

Starting out in Williams Junction, we head north on a brief concurrency with Arkansas Highway 10, threading our way through this rural community nestled about 20 miles west of Little Rock. This stretch of road quickly introduces us to the gentle climbs and dips that hint at the grandeur of the Ouachitas just to the west. It’s a pleasant two-lane drive, framed by wooded hillsides and open patches of farmland—a classic central Arkansas blend that makes the miles pass quickly.

Before long, we roll into the small community of Thornburg. Here, the scenery really starts to showcase the foothill character: tree-covered slopes close in on both sides, and the road gently twists and turns to follow the lay of the land. It’s an easygoing route for anyone who enjoys a relaxed drive that still has a touch of mountain road character—enough to keep you engaged without demanding too much behind the wheel. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; deer are common, and early morning or dusk drives are especially good for spotting them along the edges.

Continuing north, we approach one of the route’s highlights: the crossing of the Fouche La Fave River. While not a large river by national standards, it’s a charming spot where the highway dips gently to meet the riverbanks before climbing once more into the gentle hills around Perryville. This section is particularly pretty in the spring and fall when the trees along the banks put on a seasonal show. If you have time, the nearby Lake Sylvia Recreation Area—just a short detour west on Highway 324—offers picnic spots, hiking trails, and a quiet lake for a quick break from the road.

As we crest the last gentle rise, the terrain levels out and we arrive in Perryville, the seat of Perry County. The route ends at the intersection with Arkansas Highway 60, right in the heart of this small but welcoming town. Perryville itself is worth a short stop: you’ll find a few local diners, a historic courthouse square, and convenient fuel and rest spots if you’re planning to continue exploring this corner of the Natural State. From here, you can branch out west deeper into the Ouachitas or continue east toward larger towns and the interstate.