A Misguided Attempt at Eden

AR-43 South up Gaither Mountain

Gaither Mountain to South Mountain Scenic Overlook

Detouring from the usual route south out of Harrison in Arkansas, a winding path unfolded under steel gray skies that persisted throughout the afternoon.

Left to Right — Pilot Mountain, Boat Mountain, Sulphur Mountain, Fodderstack Mountain

The meandering road over the ridge of Gaither Mountain offered very few opportunities to avert eyes from the road. However, one spot along the way demanded a pause, offering up a panoramic view of distant prominent peaks to the southeast.

Stoverville Road in Ponca in Arkansas

Ponca appeared mostly deserted on arrival, with business and usual activities shuttered against the current mass hysteria. A quick review of available maps noted nearby Eden Falls, and an effort to locate the same ensued. However, a lack of specific location data and a gravel roadway that required increasingly greater clearance, conspired against and ultimately defeated the effort.

With their glory days as wagon trails long since paved over, the roadways of Arkansas are a perfect fit for the appreciative motorist. Winding along from Steel Creek Campground on the Buffalo National Rive to Jasper is just one of thousands in the state.

Elk Statuary on the Newton County Courthouse Lawn in Arkansas

In Jasper, the clouds thinned somewhat, but refused to yield any blue sky. A few interesting distraction appeared here and there, while pausing to stretch out the road and a get a little fresh air.

1909 Newton County Jailhouse in Arkansas

The two-story Newton County Jailhouse stands mostly abandoned these days. Constructed of local stone, it served the purpose well for almost 100 years, until implementation of new villain storage space in 2009.

Chaney Log House in Jasper, Arkansas

A well-maintained representation of Arkansas pioneer homestead life moved in down the street and around the corner several years ago. After living near Osage since the mid-1800s, a few enterprising folks diligently numbered and disassembled the structure, restoring it in Jasper.

New Signage at South Mountain Scenic Overlook near Marshall, Arkansas

Upon returning to the usual route, a scenic overlook frequented along the way sported new flair. A plaque now recites the heritage of the nearby rock face, while another flaunts the fantastic view and names the site.