Don’t Try This One Hike in Arkansas If You’re Afraid of Heights

Nature is quite inspiring, but if I am honest, it can be downright scary too. From claustrophobic natural spaces to deep underground caverns, there are outdoor destinations that can trigger our phobias. For some of us, our fears have stopped us from seeing some of the most amazing views in Arkansas. 

Due to my acrophobia (fear of heights), I’ve missed out on so many fun places to explore. My fear sets off my anxiety, and, in extreme circumstances, I will get lightheaded, and I have been known to cry as well. And trust me, nobody wants to deal with that.

Take the Big Bluff Goat Trail near Ponca, for example. The name says it all - the bluff is the largest in the state - it’s big. Reaching an elevation gain of almost 1000 feet, this bucket-list-worthy trail is not on my list (no surprise there!). It’s one of the most extreme hikes in Arkansas - well, at least in my opinion. Are you brave enough to conquer this quest? If so, grab your hiking boots, download AllTrails+, and let's find out!  

Know Before You Go

Fun Fact: Big Bluff claims the title of the “tallest sheer cliff face between the Rockies and Appalachians.” So, I am not exaggerating when I say, if you’re afraid of heights (like I am), you might want to sit this one out. In fact, a recent hiker had this to say, “Not for anyone scared of heights and definitely know your limits and plan extra time.” For the bravest among us, get ready to see one of the most majestic views of the iconic Buffalo National River. 

The bluff sits along the Centerpoint to Goat Trail, a six-mile out-and-back trek in the Ponca Wilderness area. Carve out about four to six hours to complete this hike. Start early, bring lots of water, snacks, and be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots for the rocky sections of the trail. Unfortunately, the kiddos and the pups will need to skip this hike. 

A Rugged Trek With Rewarding Views

From Ponca, you’ll drive north on Highway 43 for about three miles to get to the trailhead. You should have no issues finding a parking spot, and if you get lucky, you could be the only person here. The trailhead is just off the parking lot, and it’s well-marked. Take some time to read the signage and warnings here.       

The hike begins with a steady, easy trek before you approach the spur trail to get to Big Bluff. You’ll hike downhill along a forested, tree-lined path with glimpses of the rolling hills of the Ozarks, especially in the colder months when the trees are bare. This portion of the hike is quite peaceful. Hearing the soothing sounds of songbirds will settle your mind before you get to the fun and more challenging sections. 

Eventually, you’ll pass towering bluff lines and some rocky areas as you approach the sheer drop-off region. Because of the narrow pathways along the edge of the bluff, make sure you pay attention to your footing. I can’t stress how present and aware you should be as you take on this adventure - safety first. The trail will open up to the most expansive (and mind-blowing) views of the Buffalo River as it winds through the Ozark Mountains. 

At 550 feet high, when you're perched at the Big Bluff overlook, you might feel like you’re standing on top of the world - literally. Don’t forget to bring your camera (you’ll need it) to snap some pics for your social media. What I like about Big Bluff is that there are cave-like overhangs and little nooks where you can sit and soak up the jaw-dropping views. This trek is wild, rugged, with the best payoff, and could arguably be the best hike in Arkansas. Could this trail be one of the reasons Arkansas got its nickname as the Natural State? I think so!

Seeing the iconic Buffalo River winding through the Ozarks just further proves how incredible nature is. Perhaps one day, I too will get to witness this view for myself. For now, I will live vicariously through you brave adventurers who can take on the world.

The trek on the way back is all uphill and will be a bit more challenging for some folks. Just take your time, stop, and take in the views of the mighty Ozarks. If you want to take this adventure to the next level, I suggest that you plan ahead and camp in the area. Primitive camping is available along the Centerpoint Trail, or you can choose one of the more developed sites. 

Camping here wouldn’t be a bad idea since you can also hike to see Hemmed-in Hollow, Arkansas's tallest waterfall. Not to mention, you can stargaze when the night skies light up with dazzling stars and paddle or fish along the river during the day. If you ask me, this sounds like a win-win adventure in the Natural State.

Have you ever hiked the Centerpoint to Goat Trail? If so, do you agree that it’s one of the most extreme hikes in Arkansas? Sound off on our nomination page. And then tell me about your most challenging hike in Arkansas. 

Feeling inspired to see more majestic views? Use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to discover more of the best hiking trails in Arkansas.