Arkansas Launched Explore AR Highways Initiative

The state transportation department is rewarding residents who visit five designated scenic locations.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Contests

Arkansas Launched Explore AR Highways Initiative

Live Poll

Do you plan to visit local scenic landmarks in your state this year?

The Arkansas Department of Transportation has launched the 2026 Explore AR Highways initiative to encourage travel across the state. Participants who visit five specific scenic sites can earn rewards by sharing photos on social media.

Why it matters

The program incentivizes residents to explore the state's diverse geography and tourism infrastructure. By visiting multiple sites, participants gain a broader appreciation for the diverse roadway system maintained by the state.

The initiative encompasses 16,000 miles of ARDOT-maintained roadways and highlights five specific scenic locations. The first 250 individuals to complete the tour and submit their photos will receive an ARDOT challenge coin.

The players

Arkansas Department of Transportation

This state agency is responsible for maintaining 16,000 miles of roadway across Arkansas.

The details

To participate, travelers must visit City Rock Bluff, Great River Road, Highway 7 Scenic Byway, Pig Trail Scenic Byway, and Cossatot River. After visiting all five spots, individuals must post photos using #ExploreARHighways on Facebook or Instagram and submit an online completion form to claim their bumper sticker.

The Arkansas Department of Transportation launched the initiative on October 12, 2026.

Culture Shift

This program reflects a broader trend of state agencies gamifying local tourism to increase engagement with infrastructure. It follows a pattern set by the National Scenic Byways Program by utilizing designated scenic routes to drive regional tourism engagement.

Residents can participate by incorporating these five scenic locations into their travel plans and social media routines. Completing the full list is required to receive a bumper sticker, while only the first 250 finishers are eligible for the challenge coin.

The takeaway

Travelers should prioritize visiting all five locations early to improve their chances of securing a challenge coin. Sharing photos on social media with the designated hashtag is the primary method for verifying participation.