Arkansas: Buffalo National River
Buffalo National River is known for its bluffs, caves and the tallest waterfall in the surrounding area. Backpacking, rock climbing, canoeing, fishing and camping are all popular activities in this beautiful mid-western area. The area also preserves the pioneer homesteads of the past which are abundant along the over 100 miles of trail throughout the National River area. The Ponca Wilderness offers great seclusion and beautiful scenery with the turquoise river always in close view. In less than a 30-minute drive from the river, the Midwest’s premier rock climbing area, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, entices the beginner to expert climber, with over 300 routes to choose from.
Destination: Buffalo National River, Arkansas
Activities: Backpacking, rock climbing, canoeing
Cost: $$
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Climbing at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, with over 300 routes and a Via Ferrata to choose from.
Day 2: Start hiking from the Erbie Campground, passing through Parker-Hickman Farmstead, to camp right on the Buffalo National River.
Day 3: Continue hiking past Kyle’s Landing, through four river crossings, and camp at Horseshoe Bend.
Day 4: Day hike into Hemmed-in Hollow to visit Hemmed-in Falls, one of the tallest falls in the Midwest at over 200 feet tall, and have space for some solo time. When arriving back at camp, you can enjoy some cliff jumping and a fire to warm up.
Day 5: Hike up to the Slatey Place and on over to Beech Creek for one last night.
Day 6: Your final hike will drop down into the Steel Creek camping and boat launch area, with spectacular views of some of the tallest bluffs on the river.
Day 7: Rent canoes from a local vendor and paddle back to the vehicles at Erbie.
Disclaimer: All guided trips are offered by request. Necessary permits and fees are requested and obtained from the National Park Service prior to each trip.
