The local scenery around the Twin Lakes area is stunning, but the key is knowing where to go and how to navigate without getting lost. Whether you're keen on exploring scenic highways or off-the-beaten-path backroads, and whether your interests are historical, cultural, or both, we offer a free map to guide your adventures.
Caroline Gap Tour
For an authentic Ozark experience, take the Caroline Gap Tour. This scenic drive through backcountry gravel roads offers a true glimpse of the Wild Ozarks. You’ll pass century-old schoolhouses, pristine springs, rolling pastures, pioneer cemeteries, and wildflower-lined roads. Expect to see wildlife like bears, foxes, and deer along the way. The varied terrain of towering pines, hickory-oak forests, and cedar glades make for a beautiful and peaceful drive. There are plenty of places to pull over and explore, though keep in mind there are no public restrooms along the route.
Karst Scenery Drives
The Karst topography of the Ozarks is one of the most fascinating natural features in the region. From City Rock Bluff, you’ll be standing on 400-million-year-old petrified organisms, rising 150 feet above the White River. The stunning geological formations are visible from both your car and nearby walking paths. Take a short, easy walk to enjoy the folds and creases in the rock made millions of years ago.
Cultural & Historic Drives
For a true taste of rural Ozark life, grab a county map, pack a picnic, and set out on the hundreds of miles of backroads through Ozark Hill Country. You’ll encounter small farms, creeks, wildflowers, and old weathered buildings that tell stories of times gone by. Along the way, you can stop and capture the stunning landscapes that paint a rarely-seen picture of America’s history.
Modern-Day Drives
For a contrast to the rural charm, venture into the outskirts of Mountain Home to see modern Ozark life. Expansive farms, large herds of cattle, and well-maintained roads showcase the blend of traditional farming with contemporary living. You’ll pass beautiful homes, modern subdivisions, and the friendly locals. Drive just before sunset for a picture-perfect view of the modern Ozarks.
