U.S. Route 167: Sheridan to Fordyce – Arkansas

Starting just north of Sheridan, Arkansas, this 38-mile stretch of U.S. Route 167 offers a smooth and relatively fast-paced drive through the pine-covered landscapes of south-central Arkansas. The journey kicks off at the intersection with US-167 Business, where the mainline route bypasses the town of Sheridan to the west. For those interested in a quick detour, Sheridan’s small-town charm and local restaurants offer a classic southern Arkansas experience, and it’s easily accessible via Arkansas Highway 35 or 46 from the bypass.

The highway itself is a four-lane divided route for much of the way, making it a key north-south connector in this part of the state. As we bypass Sheridan, US-167 intersects AR-35 twice—first northbound as a return route to town and again a couple miles further south for travelers continuing from the city center. Shortly afterward, it intersects AR-46, which cuts west toward Leola, and then U.S. Route 270, which provides access to Malvern to the west or Pine Bluff if headed east. This string of intersections highlights how critical this corridor is—not just for through-travelers, but for local traffic moving between towns and regions.

Leaving the city behind, the route heads deeper into the Arkansas woodlands. The scenery along this segment is classic Ouachita foothills: rolling terrain, tall pines, and the occasional open field or homestead. The Saline River crossing marks a transition into more rural territory, as traffic thins out and the roadside views grow more scenic. This stretch is a good reminder of how closely transportation and nature often coexist in Arkansas, particularly along the older U.S. Highway system.  Continuing south, we reach the intersection with Arkansas Highway 48. Though this is a quiet junction, Highway 48 can take you west toward the community of Carthage, which has its own rustic appeal. Further along, the highway passes through Ivan, a small unincorporated community that offers a brief glimpse of life in rural Arkansas.

As we approach Fordyce, the terrain begins to level out and signs of civilization reappear. Fordyce itself is a historic timber town with a population of around 3,200. It has long been a commercial hub for the surrounding counties and is perhaps best known today as the hometown of Paul “Bear” Bryant, the legendary Alabama football coach. Our route ends at the junction with U.S. Route 79, which continues southwest toward Camden or northeast towards Pine Bluff. Whether you’re heading deeper into the Delta or turning back toward the Ouachitas, Fordyce makes a great place to stop for fuel, food, or a look around town.

Note: Track 7 is titled “City Lights” by Jon Conley. It is incorrectly labeled as “One of Your Memories” in the song credits.