Military Road: Rockport to Glen Rose

Travel back in time as we drive 7 scenic miles along one of Arkansas’s oldest corridors — Military Road — from Rockport to Glen Rose. This route follows part of the original Southwest Trail, a historic path used by early settlers, soldiers, and traders moving between St. Louis and Texas. Though now a quiet two-lane road nestled between pine and hardwood forests, it once carried military wagons and pioneers pushing westward. Today, it offers a short but intriguing drive just off the modern bustle of Interstate 30.

We begin our journey at the intersection of U.S. Route 270 and Military Road in Rockport, a small community rich with history. Once the county seat of Hot Spring County, Rockport lies along the Ouachita River and was a key point along the old Military Road. After departing the intersection, the road swings north briefly to pass beneath Interstate 30 — a symbolic crossing of eras, from wagon trails to superhighways — before curving back east to shadow the interstate’s path at a quieter pace.

As we travel through this wooded stretch, the road closely follows the alignment of the original Southwest Trail. While much of the dense forest that now lines the route has reclaimed what were once open fields or early homesteads, the occasional glimpse of old fencing, abandoned driveways, or aged barns hints at the road’s past significance. The lack of heavy development adds to the timeless feel of the drive — this is a route for those who enjoy the road less traveled.

Crossing from Hot Spring County into Saline County, Military Road continues on its gentle course toward Glen Rose. Just past the county line, we encounter a handful of rural homes and the occasional small farm, but for the most part, the scenery remains natural and serene. The route terminates at the intersection with Fairplay Road in Glen Rose, not far from Glen Rose High School and a short drive from U.S. Route 67 and the city of Malvern. While this segment of Military Road doesn’t feature major attractions, its historical significance and quiet beauty make it a rewarding detour for those curious about Arkansas’s early transportation history.

If you’re looking for something to do nearby, consider a side trip to a picnic stop at the nearby Ouachita River. The historic town of Malvern, just minutes south via I-30, offers local eats, a charming downtown, and a connection to the Hot Springs Railroad — yet another layer of travel history in the region.