Arkansas Highway 123: Sand Gap to Western Grove

Heading north through the rugged terrain of the Ozarks, Arkansas Highway 123 delivers one of the most scenic and quietly spectacular drives in the Natural State. This 32-mile stretch from Sand Gap to Western Grove isn’t just a connector between rural communities—it’s an immersive journey through the heart of the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest, offering views, curves, and character that keep drivers and riders alike coming back for more.

Our trip begins just north of Sand Gap (also known as Pelsor), where AR-123 branches off from the legendary Arkansas Highway 7. This area marks the edge of the forested highlands, and immediately the road begins to twist and climb through lush mountain scenery. Over the next 15 miles, the highway weaves its way through thick forests, with occasional pull-offs offering peaceful glimpses of the valleys below. Keep your eyes peeled—this section of the road is a favorite for wildlife sightings, especially deer and wild turkeys. We’re deep in the Ozark National Forest here, and it shows.

Eventually, we descend into Mt. Judea, a tiny town nestled in a narrow valley surrounded by limestone bluffs. Here, Arkansas Highway 74 joins us for a brief concurrency. The combined route curves northward, climbing again as we leave Mt. Judea and pass through the rustic community of Vendor. Vendor itself is just a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spot, but the rolling hills and tightly winding road demand your full attention. This area is popular with motorcyclists and road trippers thanks to its constant curves and remote beauty—no gas stations, no fast food, just the road and the woods.

At Piercetown, AR-74 peels off to the west while we continue straight on AR-123. The scenery stays compelling, transitioning from dense forest to more open farmland as we approach Hasty. The road gradually turns to the northeast, signaling the last leg of the journey. This final section toward Western Grove is still delightfully curvy, but the landscape begins to open up. By the time we reach U.S. Highway 65, we’ve left behind the most rugged terrain—but the sense of adventure lingers. Western Grove is a small town, but it’s a useful stopping point for fuel or a snack before continuing on to larger towns like Harrison or Marshall.

This route is more than just a scenic drive—it’s a window into the backcountry of northern Arkansas. Whether you’re exploring on four wheels or two, Arkansas Highway 123 from Sand Gap to Western Grove is a rewarding and unforgettable journey. For nature lovers, solitude seekers, and fans of twisty mountain roads, this one’s a gem.