State Route 7, running north and south, snakes its way through the entire western section of Arkansas. This popular scenic highway is lined with attractions from Harrison to Hot Springs. Heading south from Jasper, the byway approaches a large section of the Ozarks National Forest. One of the previews of this immense forestland is a splendid panorama of the Arkansas Grand Canyon.
   As Route 7 climbs sharply from the Buffalo River Valley, the broad canyon appears to the east. Overlooks provide views of the wooded valley, set off by the Boston Mountains in the background. This mountain range quickly begins to smooth out as it heads northward, but here it's part of the grand view on Route 7.
   The view from the Cliff House Restaurant turns out to be a natural rest-stop after the tough climb into the Ozark Mountains. The huge, accommodating parking lot calls out to travelers to stop and take a look. Here in the Jasper area, the Buffalo River, Alum Cove and Pedestal Rocks are all great natural features of the area, begging for a few days of exploration.

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