The Buffalo River… America’s first national river, flows through 135 miles of pristine wilderness in the Ozarks until it meets the White River. The Buffalo River is divided in 3 sections and with 22 access points, river canoeing can be fast and exhilarating or slow and relaxing. Learn more about kayaking and canoeing. Get a river map and start your adventure!
Hike House Eureka Springs offers suggestions on hikes in the area
There is more to the Buffalo River National Park than just float the river. From starting points like the places to stay in Eureka Springs or Fayetteville to as far as Little Rock, daytrips into the park allow you to create your own adventure all year long in the Buffalo River National Park Region. Explore River Hiking for detailed trail information and regulations. Find Places to Stay in the Buffalo National River Region.
Wooded trail through Lost Valley. Photo by Edward Robison III.
Hiking in the Buffalo National River
Upper District Hikes
The most rugged and most beautiful, the Upper River District is the largest section of the park…
Middle District Hikes
A favorite for spring hikes…
Lower District Hikes
The Lower River District is the most remote area of the park…
Floats on the Buffalo National River
Upper District Floats
Middle District Floats
Lower District Floats
Hiking Near Ponca, Arkansas
Ponca is a hiker’s paradise nestled in the heart of the Buffalo National River’s Upper District. Whether you’re after towering waterfalls, bluff-top views, or lush creek canyons, this area offers something for everyone—from family-friendly strolls to challenging backcountry treks. Here are five top trails near Ponca, each easy to find and truly worth the journey:
- Lost Valley Trail
A popular 2.2-mile round-trip hike into a lush box canyon ending at Eden Falls and Cob Cave. Ideal for families, this easy-to-moderate trail features benches, cave exploration, and one of the most photographed waterfalls in the state. - Center Point to Hemmed-In Hollow Trail
A challenging but rewarding 10.8-mile round-trip hike with nearly 1,300 feet of elevation gain, leading to the breathtaking Hemmed-In Hollow Falls—the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and the Appalachians. - Buffalo River Trail: Ponca to Steel Creek
A scenic 2.3-mile section of the Buffalo River Trail that offers panoramic bluff views and river overlooks. Perfect for a short outing that delivers big on beauty. - Goat Trail to Big Bluff
This rugged spur off the Center Point Trail leads to Big Bluff—one of the most iconic views in Arkansas. The narrow trail hugs a 500-foot bluffline, so it’s best suited for experienced hikers. - Indian Rockhouse Trail
Located near the Buffalo Point area, this 3.3-mile loop takes you to a large bluff shelter once used by Native Americans. The hike features a waterfall, sinkhole, and historic quarry.
Support your Park… Plan a visit but Leave No Trace, volunteer or become a member of the Buffalo National River Partners.
The Buffalo National River … one of America’s National Parks. Year-round experiences in America’s wilderness with breathtaking scenery, Mid-America’s tallest waterfalls and a majestic elk herd.
