I said I was done hosting events… but apparently, I don’t listen to myself! On November 1st, we threw together a cruise/run, and what a day it turned out to be.

We kicked off at Toad Suck Ferry Park in Conway with about 20 cars ready to roll. The original plan was roughly 200 miles; the drive itself ended up around 150, but factoring everyone’s drive to the start and home from the finish, we easily topped 200 miles.

The route took us across the Arkansas River to Perryville, then through Oppelo, Morrilton, and up Hwy 9 to Choctaw. We headed north on Hwy 65 with a quick stop at Archey Fork Park in Clinton, giving everyone a chance to stretch, chat, and take in the scenery.

From Clinton, we continued north and made a short gas stop before turning onto Hwy 66 at Leslie. That’s when the drizzle started, tagging along all the way into Mountain View, our lunch stop. Everyone went their own way for lunch—I personally hit the Mexican restaurant on the square (worth it!). After lunch, a few of us swung by the city park to snap some photos of our rides and check out the amphitheater before rejoining the group.

From Mountain View, we cruised south on Hwy 5 toward Drasco. We had planned a stop at Drasco Trading Post, but with the rain and running a bit behind schedule, we pressed on to our final stop: the JFK Overlook in Heber Springs, overlooking the dam at Greers Ferry Lake. It’s a spectacular spot and one I’ve used many times for car and truck photos.

Everyone hung out, visited, and we raffled off StillKruzn Arkansas t-shirts. I think just about everyone snagged one—huge shout-out to Kevin from MIG Tees in Mayflower for printing them up and donating them for the event!

I can’t thank everyone enough for coming out. A few folks headed out early, but the turnout and energy made the day something special. After some good conversation and plenty of smiles, we talked about next year. Everyone seemed to enjoy this one and would like to see it again.

We’re already brainstorming tweaks for the route and format, but the bigger challenge is timing. Too early, and rain can be an issue. Mid-year is hot. And the end of the year? Anything can happen. Stay tuned to StillKruzn Arkansas on Facebook for updates and announcements.

Until then: Stay Safe. Have Fun. Stay Kruzn!