The quest for great roads, good burgers and don’t forget the pie!
By Jerry James
(STAReview May-June 2023)
The alarm goes off and we are excited to get out of bed. We enjoy sitting out on the back deck, taking in the morning,
watching the hummingbirds and savoring that first cup of coffee of the day. Not a bad way to start the day if I do say so myself. What makes it even better, is knowing that we will be gearing up and jumping on the motorcycle to enjoy the day. We are spoiled as we get to ride some of the best roads in America. Riding in Arkansas features beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, and tree-lined roads just to name a few. Throw in the lack of traffic and good road surfaces and you have the making of a fantastic day.
Today our destination is special. The Oark General Store was founded in 1890, it is the oldest continuously operating general store in the state and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. But, what makes this store special is that it has become a can’t miss destination for motorcyclists, off-roaders, and car clubs who come from far and wide to visit this unique piece of Arkansas history. Besides that, the burgers and pie reward all that make this off-the-beaten-path ride.
One of the best things about today’s ride is the roads that we get to experience on the way to Oark. As we leave our home in Northwest Arkansas we make our way down through Pea Ridge, Arkansas, on AR 94. Home of the Pea Ridge National Military Park. The famous civil war battle that took place here is known as the battle that saved Missouri for the Union. If you have time, visiting the park is well worth your time. We drop down into Rogers, Arkansas and this is the most traffic we will see for the day. As we turn on AR 12 the fun is ready to begin. We feel the air cool as we cross over Beaver Lake. This is a big recreation area and is one of the reasons for some traffic. We like getting up and going early in the day, so the traffic is not a concern on this beautiful morning. The road gets twisty after you pass over the lake. The tarmac is pristine, and the curves are laid out perfectly for a spirited ride. We take a short detour as we turn right onto a small little tree-lined lane, we ride 1.5 miles and arrive at a working gristmill that has been in this location since 1832. The 4th mill was built on this location in 1973. The three previous mills were all destroyed during fires. In 1862 the union army burned the mill to ensure it stayed out of the hands of the confederates. The current mill houses a working store and restaurant. The War Eagle Bridge is also on site. This historic bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This one-lane steel truss bridge is a great photo opportunity and a must-stop. You can thank me later. We backtrack the 1.5 miles to get back on AR 12. This takes us to another fun and twisty road. AR 127. This is a quiet road, that defines what a great motorcycle road looks like. Beware as some of the landscape can take your mind off the task at hand. This is a challenging road that demands your full attention. You can roll into Chana’s corner for a little break and some fuel if needed. The store is located at the intersection of AR 127 and AR 23 (part of the famous Pig Trail). After a quick stop, we are back on the road. AR 23. This stretch of road is the tame part of the Pig Trail. It features sweeping corners along with some breathtaking views. After we pass Forum, AR we take a little jaunt down through Withrow Springs State Park. This small park is a put-in for the folks that like to take a float on the river. It is also home to a unique flower, the rare Ozark trillium, which grows here. Back up on AR 23 we make our way to Huntsville, AR. This is another place to get fuel if needed and has many places available to take a break. If you are in the mood for a great country breakfast visit Granny’s Kitchen. Home-made food just like your granny used to make. Plan on waiting in line if you are visiting on a weekend. We continue along AR 23 taking on the curvy roads while enjoying more of the natural beauty of Arkansas. They do not call it the “Natural State” for no reason. We continue down the Pig Trail; the road gets twister and more technical the longer you stay on it. You will always see a lot of folks enjoying the Scenic Overlook. It is worth pulling over and chatting with some of the riders that are there enjoying the overlook. We have seen 20-30 bikes parked here at one time. The view is well worth the stop.
A few miles down the road start looking for AR 215. This road takes you along the Mulberry River. Be on the lookout for hikers
and side by sides as there are a number of trailheads and trails for folks to enjoy. This road is also very scenic and has a number of curves to keep your attention. You take AR 215 for 12 miles before you roll into the Oark General Store.
The store is located in the small community of Oark, Arkansas, which is surrounded by beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. The area has become a popular destination for off-roading and motorcycle enthusiasts who come to ride the numerous trails and scenic roads in the Ozark National Forest. The Oark General Store has become a popular stop, so please plan accordingly. The wait is usually not that bad, but on busy weekends or when clubs go to the store, the wait could be longer. There is a gas pump at this location, but the fuel is limited to one pump of 87 octane, and you will pay for the privilege of filling up. With that being said, do not let that keep you from visiting this wonderful place. The Oark General Store is like stepping back in time. The store’s interior has changed very little over the years, with the original wood floors, counters, and shelves still in place. The store offers a wide selection of merchandise, including groceries, hardware, and outdoor gear. Visitors can also enjoy a meal from the deli, which offers a variety of sandwiches and sides. Jamie and I are big fans of the Bacon Cheeseburger and homemade fries. Do NOT leave here without trying a piece of the pie. The peanut butter pie is to die for and our favorite. They make the pies on-site and with love. There could be no other explanation for such great tasting pie. We enjoy hanging out on the front porch, taking in the sights as riders, sports car drivers, off-roaders and cyclists come and go. It is a great way to let your food settle before getting back on the bike. We like to make a day of it, and on some days we have spent 2-3 hours at the general store. It is always a sad moment when we load back up on the bike to head home.
We are so thankful that we get to ride in this wonderful state and visit these great places. So, if you are ever in Arkansas and
need a place to eat, don’t forget about the Oark general store. Oh yeah, the riding is not bad either. Ride safe everyone.