The Byway lies entirely within the boundaries of the 1.6 million-acre Ouachita National Forest and offers breathtaking vistas and opportunities to explore and inquire into a world of rocks, forests, flowers, birds and animals in endless array. It takes you into times past when early white settlers and the Choctaw Tribe in Indian Territory found the beauties and hardships of their new land a balanced and rewarding way of life. Old Military Road, Horse Thief Springs, Pioneer Cemetery, the remains of stone fences and foundations of early day homes are monuments of these bygone days. One breathtaking panorama follows another as this national forest scenic byway winds along the crests of the Ouachita Mountains. One of America's oldest land masses, they are unique because they stretch east and west, rather than north and south.
Rock glaciers are indicative of their fascinating geological history.
More than 2,500 native plant species and a diversity of wildlife species may be found here. Queen Wilhelmina State Park, operated by the Arkansas Parks Department. The Park offers a picnic area, miniature scenic railroad, animal park and miniature golf course. There is also an interpretive naturalist program available. The most popular attraction within the State Park is Queen Wilhelmina Lodge.