Posted in Arkansas
May 28, 2020
Spend The Day Exploring Arkansas’ Tallest Falls On This Wonderful Waterfall Road Trip
If you’re up for a real adventure, then today’s trek is for one for you! This two-for-one hike will take you to the tallest waterfalls in Arkansas. Hemmed-In Hollow Falls and Diamond Falls will keep you looking up! Let’s lace up our hiking boots and check out this neck-craning, jaw-dropping trail.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Hiking to both waterfalls is a 5.5-mile roundtrip with some major elevation change (over 1,000 feet!). This is not an easy trail but it's also not completely inaccessible. No bushwhacking is required as the path is very well worn and the elevation gain is gradual with rock-made stairs. Research the path further by having Tim Ernst's waterfall guidebook handy, your AllTrails GPS-friendly map downloaded, and by reading Rick's Hiking Blog.
Use your best judgement before tackling today's trek.
So you're in moderately decent shape, you've researched further, and you have your GPS - you're ready! If you are backpacking you'll come across two clearings about two miles into the trail. Regardless if you're staying the night or not, this is a great break spot!
Photos just can't do this place justice! The 209-ft. waterfall is the tallest fall between the Appalachians and the Rockies. As with most Arkansas waterfalls, the best viewing is after some moderate rains.
Add half a mile more to your 5-mile trek to Hemmed-In Hollow to see the state's second tallest waterfall, Diamond Falls. This short bit is much more difficult than the hike to the Hollow so please, experienced hikers only.
The cascade plummets into a rock outcropping that sprays the water into what looks like glittering diamonds. To reach Diamond Falls from Hemmed-In Hollow, follow the leftside bluffline that's above the creek towards the old cedar trees (pictured). Head west around the corner to reach a rock tunnel. You'll need to climb above the tunnel to continue around the bluffline to Diamond Falls.
Have you challenged yourself to see both of these tall falls? We’d love to hear about your adventure in the comments below!
Don’t feel left out if today’s hike too far out of reach. Eden Falls or Falling Water Falls are in the same area but have much easier and family-friendly trails.
Address: Compton, AR 72624, USA
