Trail Overview
Round to Henson School Road is an easy, scenic 6.9-mile point-to-point route in the Ouachita National Forest perfect for beginners, families, and those seeking a relaxing drive with spectacular mountain views. This well-maintained gravel road winds through dense forest, climbing from a minimum elevation of 956 feet up to a peak of 1,244 feet. The trail is highly accessible, suitable for high-clearance two-wheel-drive vehicles in dry conditions, though four-wheel-drive is recommended when wet, muddy conditions arise. Along the route, drivers will cross near Little Brushy Creek and can expect to encounter loose rock and gravel, requiring basic caution but no specialized technical driving skills.
As you traverse this scenic corridor, keep an eye out for local wildlife and take advantage of several primitive camping spots tucked into the Ouachita National Forest. The route sees shared use, so drivers should remain alert for ATVs, SxSs, and dirt bikes sharing the road. While the drive is straightforward with a gentle average gradient, weather can quickly transform the hard-packed dirt and gravel into slick mud, particularly during rainy seasons. After soaking in the panoramic mountain vistas and quiet creek crossings, the trail connects to Henson School Road, offering a perfect jumping-off point for deeper exploration into the surrounding forest service roads.
