Is the Arkansas Dragon Most Dangerous Road in the United States?

Now that fall is upon us it may be time for a road trip through Arkansas if so, beware of the most dangerous highway in the state and the U.S. In fact, it's so dangerous that it's been dubbed the Arkansas Dragon.

Highway 123

The road winds and twists through the heavily wooded forest of the Ozark Mountains a sprawling 59 treacherous miles along Highway 123.

Google Maps

Whether you are driving or riding a motorcycle you best be paying attention because the road is a very challenging drive, the Arkansas Dragon has over 300 curves and is very steep and narrow on the two-lane highway with numerous hairpin curves that will get your heart pumping at every turn one wrong move and you could plummet right off the mountain, according to Fun in Arkansas.

Memphis Mike, YouTube

Navigating along this highway with numerous drop-offs on the side can be very tricky but views of the mountain countryside are well worth it, especially during the colorful fall season. The dragon is almost like a rollercoaster ride, the highway is popular with motorcycle enthusiasts as it tests their riding skills, especially on the banked curves.

Memphis Mike, YouTube

Crooked and Steep

As soon as you enter the dragon's domain on Highway 123 off of Highway 7 you are immediately greeted by a road sign that says, "Crooked and Steep."

Memphis Mike, YouTube

You better get ready because the adventure begins pretty quickly after seeing the sign and there are no straight runs on this journey. The speed limit tops out at 30 MPH exceeding that limit is almost impossible and very dangerous to you and other drivers coming your way on the other side of the road.

Memphis Mike, YouTube

There is a stretch on the road that's called, "Big Tooth to Eye of the Needle," with steep embankments and switchbacks that will test your nerves. The drive can be even more hazardous when it rains, or it's foggy or icy.

Let me just say, that I have driven this highway many times, and once you get to the end of the journey you actually feel relieved that you made it out alive. At that point, you can consider that you slayed the Arkansas Dragon!

More about Highway 123 and scenic locations you must see on Only In Your State.

Take an amazing ride with Memphis Mike below.

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Filed Under: Arkansas, Arkansas Highways, Arkansas roads, Dangerous roads

Categories: Arkansas News, Lifestyles, News, Travel