Berryville-Eureka Springs Loop, via Hwy 62 and 221

Map:  http://www.mapmyride.com/route/us/ar/berryville%20to%20eureka%20springs/647128898018636612
Mileage: 26 miles
Climbing: 2324'
Terrain: A few pretty good hills. Seems to be a little less steep, if your ride this loop counter-clockwise.
Road Safety: Hwy 62 is a busy route, but most places there is a good shoulder to ride on. Rockhouse Road is a narrow county road, but minimal traffic. Hwy 221 is great (except for the hills). Nice wide shoulder, minimal traffic.

 On November 4, 2010, I did a loop ride, beginning in Berryville, AR. I rode on hwy 62 towards Eureka Springs. Just before Eureka, I turned onto Rockhouse Road. It's a county-maintained road, but is all pavement and is in good condition for cycling. That road eventually runs into 221, which will take you back to Berryville. There were several beautiful fall-colored trees along the way.

 For the first time this fall, I had to dig out my winter shoes (I usually ride in sandals) and my stocking cap.

 Leaving Berryville. There is an fairly wide shoulder on hwy 62 from Berryville to Eureka Springs.

 Maybe it's because I was raised on a farm, but I've always enjoyed seeing nice farm land.

 Heading towards the hills.

 The Kings River at hwy 62 bridge.

 Lots of different things to visit in the area. I'm not a fan of snakes, so I've never visited this one.

Large round hay bales at edge of a pasture.

 Heading down Rockhouse Road.

 Riding stables.

 Another of the many resorts in the Eureka Springs area.

I love riding tree-shaded roads.

 I think this little short, but steep hill was where I got my heart rate up to 176.

Can't pass a body of water without taking a photo!

 Not sure what this place is about.

The Winona Church.

At the end of Rockhouse Road, you come out on hwy 221 south of Berryville. If you turn to the right, you'll go about a mile, and the pavement ends.

It's a long hill down to the Kings River bridge on 221. This side of the hill is steeper than the side across the bridge.

The Kings River at the 221 bridge. It's a nice float from here to the bridge on hwy 62 west of Berryville.

I did find some fall colors on my trip.

Always thought this is an interesting area. It just doesn't look like the rest of Carroll County.

Winding roads.

Berryville in the distance.

Osage Creek.