Travel west with us for 19 scenic miles along U.S. Highway 270 as we journey from the quiet forest community of Crystal Springs to the small town charm of Mt. Ida, Arkansas. This stretch of road offers a peaceful escape through the Ouachita National Forest, hugging the southern shoreline of Lake Ouachita—one of Arkansas’s largest and clearest lakes.
Our trip begins just past Crystal Springs Road, near the well-known Burl’s Smokehouse, a popular pit stop for locals and travelers alike. This section of U.S. 270 is a two-lane highway that feels tucked into the woods. It’s the kind of route where the views unfold gradually—oak and pine forests giving way to glimpses of sunlit coves and wooded hillsides. As we head west, the road curves gently, rarely letting you forget you’re in the heart of the Ouachitas. Wildlife sightings are common here, from deer to the occasional bald eagle soaring overhead near the lake.
Lake Ouachita itself, visible in several places along this stretch, is a destination in its own right. If time allows, consider detouring to one of the nearby recreation areas or scenic pull-offs. The lake is a haven for boaters, kayakers, and fishermen looking for crystal-clear waters and solitude. The Ouachita National Forest also offers numerous trailheads off this route, including lesser-known hikes for those wanting to get off the pavement and into the woods.
As we continue west, the highway gently climbs and descends through rolling terrain before approaching the outskirts of Mt. Ida, the county seat of Montgomery County. Upon arrival, the route intersects with Arkansas Highway 27 South, marking the first of two connections to this important north-south route. Mt. Ida may be small, but it has a reputation as the Quartz Crystal Capital of the World, with several crystal mines and rock shops worth exploring if you’re into geology or just looking for a unique souvenir.
Passing through Mt. Ida’s main business district, U.S. 270 offers easy access to restaurants, local shops, and a few gas stations—your last services for a while if you’re continuing west deeper into the Ouachitas. On the west side of town, U.S. 270 meets Arkansas Highway 27 North, where this segment concludes. This junction also serves as a jumping-off point for those heading toward Norman, Caddo Gap, or Glenwood via AR-27.
Whether you’re traveling for the scenic views, outdoor adventure, or a quiet drive through the forest, the route from Crystal Springs to Mt. Ida delivers a classic slice of west-central Arkansas. It’s a journey rich with natural beauty, small-town friendliness, and a few surprises along the way.
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