If you’ve ever come up empty while researching “waterfalls near me” in Arkansas, perhaps you skipped over one of our state’s most hidden gems. Boxley Valley leads to multiple adventures but this one is rather overlooked. Just off of the Upper Buffalo National River is a tucked-away creek filled with gorgeous places to explore. Wander along Leatherwood Creek for all sorts of natural beauty including waterfalls, grottos, and towering geological formations! Let’s take a brief tour of this eye-catching creek that offers one of the best waterfall hikes in Arkansas:

Boxley Valley and the Buffalo River have tons of designated attractions, but sometimes the best trips are found off the beaten path.
Google/David D
Of course you're bound to love trails like Lost Valley, the elk-spying vistas, or any of the history-inspired driving tours but that's not the end of your Boxley Valley adventure! Just off of the Buffalo National River (which has its own itinerary) resides a little stream with big sights - Leatherwood Creek!
From the Ponca Low-Water Bridge, the first part of this path is decently worn; however, keep in mind it'll be a bushwhack from there.
AllTrails/GregMarcella Gordon
Although, it is a fairly easy bushwhack. If you don't mind creek crossing and forging your way along the banks then you'll undoubtedly love exploring this area. Do watch out for the slippery rocks though!
One of the most well-known features of the creek is Balanced Rock Falls, but that's only the beginning to our afternoon trip!
AllTrails/Michael Blitch
Balanced Rock Falls will quickly reward hikers since it's only a ¾-mile trek from the bridge. No need to end your trip there, however! Return to the creek and continue upstream for more sights.

The details of reaching the unique formation can be found in this article.

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As you continue up the creek you'll find sheer rock walls as well as grottos.
Google/J.T.
The natural beauty of this area is so underrated but so stunning! Cool off under one of the rock overhangs for a rest and snacks.
Numerous waterfalls can be found, including the ever-gorgeous Leatherwood Creek Falls.
Rick's Hiking Blog
Some of the falls you'll cross are named such as Wading Falls and Kizmet Falls but most are unnamed cascades. Depending on the flow of the creek you can find upwards of 20 full-fledged waterfalls!
Choose your hiking time and set off on this understated adventure.
AllTrails/Roy Stovall
Hiking to reach Leatherwood Creek Falls and back is about four miles long. That said, feel free to explore for longer! We highly recommend sticking to the creek for an easier route as well as keeping your GPS handy. This blog has more details on this creek trek, too!

Have you trekked around Leatherwood Creek before? What area was your favorite? Share your hiking experience with us in the comments below and add your photos to 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.

What are some of your favorite hiking trails with waterfalls in Arkansas? Tell us about them on our nomination page, and you just might see your suggestion featured in an upcoming article.

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Waterfalls Near Me

Katie Lawrence | April 12, 2022

What are some of the best waterfall hikes in Arkansas?

Arkansas has so many gorgeous waterfall hikes, it’s almost impossible to pick a favorite. If we had to narrow it down, however, two of the best waterfall hikes in Arkansas would be Thunder Canyon Falls and Indian Creek Trail to Eye of the Needle. The former, located in the Ouachitas, is near two other waterfalls, so you can make your adventure last all day. Indian Creek Trail to Eye of the Needle is a strenuous hike tucked away in the Ozarks, featuring several waterfalls within a gorgeous limestone canyon.

Are there a lot of hiking trails with waterfalls in Arkansas?

No matter what corner of Arkansas you reside in, you can rest assured there’s a hiking trail near you that leads to a stunning waterfall. One of our favorite waterfall hikes in Arkansas is Triple Falls, located in the Buffalo National River wilderness area. Flowing year-round, this 50-foot cascade is among the most photographed natural wonders in the state, accessible via an easy, 1/4-mile hike. Just be sure to visit after heavy rain to see the falls in their most powerful state.

Does Arkansas have any natural wonders?

With such a nickname as “The Natural State,” it’s no surprise that Arkansas’ great outdoors is brimming with jaw-dropping sights. One of them is Lake Chicot, the largest natural lake in Arkansas (and the largest lake of its kind in the U.S.) This pristine body of water is nearly 600 years old!

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