Join us as we drive 9 miles south along Congo-Ferndale Road, a scenic rural route that connects the quiet community of Ferndale to the small town of Salem in central Arkansas. This stretch of road runs through the rolling foothills just west of Little Rock and provides a peaceful alternative to the busier interstates in the area. While it might not be a major highway, Congo-Ferndale Road is an important local connector—and a great example of the kinds of hidden, lightly-trafficked roads that make exploring Arkansas by car so rewarding.
Our journey begins in Ferndale, a rural enclave west of the Chenal Valley area. Ferndale itself is mostly residential, with a scattering of farmland and a few churches and community buildings tucked into the tree-lined landscape. As we head south on Congo-Ferndale Road, the first thing you’ll notice is how wooded and serene the surroundings become. This area forms part of the Ouachita Mountain foothills, so expect some gentle elevation changes and curves as the road winds its way through thick forest and open clearings.
Roughly halfway through the drive, we begin to see more signs of suburban development, especially as we approach the northern edges of Saline County’s residential spread, though the overall character of the route remains pleasantly rural. Keep an eye out for horses, deer, and the occasional cyclist—this is a favorite area for weekend riders and motorcyclists due to the low traffic and natural scenery.
As we continue further south, the road gradually straightens and flattens out, giving way to the broader residential zones of Salem. Located just northwest of Benton, Salem is a small but growing community that’s benefitting from the outward expansion of the Little Rock metro area. The road ends near the intersection with Arkansas Highway 5, making this an easy connection point for travelers heading into Benton or Hot Springs, or looping back north toward Little Rock through alternative scenic routes.
Though only 9 miles long, this drive highlights the blend of natural beauty and quiet growth that defines much of central Arkansas. Congo-Ferndale Road offers a smooth, scenic route with easy access to both outdoor recreation and suburban amenities, making it well worth a detour for travelers wanting a break from the interstate grind.
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