Overall Route Rating
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4.41 out of 5 Rider Rating 4.41
22 Reviews

The Melbourne Run

Motorcycle Route Author

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By Guest (0 McR Points) on Feb 29, 2004

Rider Reviews

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Guest
June 10, 2008
https://www.flickr.com/photos/27396342@N06/…
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ozarkdiver
214 McR Points
October 25, 2018
If you like twisties, this is your dream ride.…
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Written Directions

Start the route in the town of Mountain View, AR which sits about 85 miles due north of Little Rock. From there you take State Road 14 north out of Mountain View, AR for about 6 miles and then look for State Road 9 (you will see signs pointing the way to Melbourne, AR). Take a right on State Road 9 and you'll be heading east and cross the White river and you are on your way to Melbourne, AR. For the next 20 or so miles, stay on State Road 9 and take it in to Melbourne (note: State Road 9 is part of the Ozark National forest).

Scenery

Start by crossing the scenic White river then gear down for the climb up the first mountain. At the top of the first peak prepare for tight 180 degree turns. Pass sheer mountain cut outs as you descend slightly then up again and hard turns. Look to your left and you can see a sheer drop-off to the river valley below. It is hard not to stare at the beautiful scenery. Only trouble is if you do (with all the killer turns) this will be a one-time trip.

Drive Enjoyment

It is a good road, well maintained. However be aware that this is a mountain road and with changing weather conditions there will be loose gravel from the mountainside on some turns. One thing to watch out for is large black birds feeding on the road kill. They won't move until the last moment and when they do they could just a well fly at you as away from you. Have had three close calls in the last two years.

Tourism Opportunities

Visit the well-equipped store at the base of the road for gas and drinks. There is nothing from Mountain View to Melbourne except motorcycle adventure. However, running out of gas is not a problem as you could probably coast down most of the 25-mile distance.

Motorcycle Road Additional info

- View the weather forecast for this area from Yahoo weather .
 

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Mike Kemp
August 2, 2021
38 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring
I got re-acquainted with this road this year. The first time I rode it on my new-to-me Suzuki Bandit several years ago, it really spooked me; there are many blind and technical curves that any new rider needs to be aware of before tackling this road. However, having gone back after a few more years under my belt, I have to say this is an incredible riding experience! Very technical, but also loads of fun with some beautiful views at two pull-outs. I would have rated it higher, but the road surface itself has some irregularities that knock it down a notch. Otherwise, one of the best in the state.
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mickris
January 6, 2012
13 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Cruiser
Great ride! This road is twisty, curvy and scenic.
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ArkTerry
September 12, 2011
4 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Other
Really nice run! Lived in Arkansas my whole life and been all over North Arkansas, but never took this road unitl now. Now my favorite road in the area!
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