Posted in Arkansas
August 16, 2019
10 Unforgettable Waterfalls In Arkansas You Have To See For Yourself
It would take a lifetime to visit a waterfall a day in Arkansas. You can find more than 100 falls in one county alone! Although every waterfall is worth taking a trip to and enjoying, sometimes you just need a list or two for inspiration. Whether they have difficult treks or a family-friendly drive up, beloved treasures or hidden gems — these waterfalls are simply unforgettable.
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/
No matter if you're walking behind the falls or traversing to view it topside, Bridal Veil Falls is one our favorites. The super easy .4-mile jaunt is great for families. You can walk behind this "veil" of water, too! It's neighbor, Cornelius Falls, is worth a picture or two as well.
Mirror Lake Trail is a perfect little side trip to add to your Blanchard Springs Caverns exploration. The waterfall was a gorgeous result of the CCC-built dam on Mirror Lake. The entire area is beautiful, but you'll never forget the first time you see this magnificent cascade.
The hike leading up to this fall also includes two caves as well! The 29-foot falls is fantastic in photos but absolutely jaw-dropping in person. The cave it flows out of is off-limits, though. We certainly wouldn't want to disturb the bats (or get fined for that matter) so just be sure to take plenty of photos of the waterfall before heading back.
You knew it'd be on this list. The 6-mile Hemmed-in Hollow Trail has a rather steep 2.5-mile climb out but the exertion is absolutely worth it to see the 209-foot falls. This classic waterfall is the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and the Appalachians.
This waterfall isn't quite as well known as its neighbors, Keefe Falls and Falling Water Falls, but it sure is gorgeous. Splashdown Falls is about 35-feet tall and stays at a decently heavy flow because of its drainage size. The toppling cascades and pristine blue water make this cascade a must-visit.
Of course, you would find Eden in Arkansas. Lost Valley Recreation Area leads to many gorgeous sights including Eden Falls — an underground waterfall — and miles of stunning trail.
This is another beloved Arkansas waterfall but it's not quite like any other fall in the state. Glory Hole flows through the rock instead of over it creating an odd circular waterfall. The hike to reach it isn't too difficult — it's just 1.8 miles down the hill.
Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area is filled with fantastic falls, but Pam's Grotto may be our favorite of the big three. Tucked away in a grotto on a path surrounded by gorgeous bluffs, the trail you’ll take to see this truly amazing waterfall is only about a half-mile long.
Thunder Canyon Falls is arguably the most beautiful spot in all of Arkansas. If you haven't made the effort to bushwhack beyond Cecil Creek Trail, you certainly need to plan a trip. Thunder Canyon is nearly impossible to reach while its still wet, so be sure to wait a few days after the rain to see this gorgeous place.
Not every worthwhile waterfall is in the Ozarks. Mitchell Branch is one of the most gorgeous falls you can find in the Ouachita National Forest. There's many other waterfalls in the area if you're up for a bushwhack, but Mitchell Branch certainly stands out from the rest.
We wouldn't recommend taking this trip in a single drive but it is beneficial to have a map to see where all of these beautiful waterfalls reside! If you'd like to view the interactive map, use this link.
Which waterfalls would you add to this list? Share your favorites with us in the comments below! We would absolutely love to see your waterfall photos in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
