Buffalo National River
Upper River Area
Upper River Area
Ponca Elk Education Center
Schermerhorn TrailheadDirectionsGPS: 36.07326, -93.26404 (11.7 miles, 25 mins) This is a popular trail round trip is around 2 miles. The trail leads to a falls and old bluff shelter. The bluffline is quite scenic with large boulders and pines. Many side trails to explore as well. Watch out for slippery rocks. The road to the trailhead can be hazardous in wet weather. The road past the trailhead into the park is 4WD only, and not maintained. |
Compton TrailheadDirectionsGPS: 36.0817, -93.30536 (9.3 miles, 16 mins) Another trailhead down to Hemmed In Hollow, Granny Hendersons, and Sneeds Creek. Very tough hike, over 1,000 ft. descent on switchback trails. Plan to take all day for this one. Don't go alone, and don't go if you are not reasonably fit. Popular with hikers and horsemen. HIH easier hike from parked canoe. |
Centerpoint TrailheadDirectionsGPS: 36.06368, -93.36017 (3.6 miles, 5 mins) This trailhead is popular with hikers and horsemen. It is one of two ways to famous Hemmed In Hollow, the dangerous Goat Trail, Sneeds Creek Trail, and Granny Henderson's cabin. Big elevation changes, not for out of shape hikers. 1,000 ft descent. For most, this is an all day hike requiring frequent rest stops. |
Hawksbill CragDirectionsGPS: 35.88816, -93.4698 ( 13.1 miles, 37 mins) Popular 3 mile round trip with 200 ft elevation change. Most photographed Arkansas Landmark. Trail can be rough, a few seasonal creeks. Hazardous around bluff edges, children need to be watched closely. Bear sightings now and then. |
Glory HoleDirectionsGPS: 35.82595, -93.39737 (18.5 miles, 23 mins) This is a popular short hike of moderate difficulty. The Glory Hole is a waterfall through the top of a cave. It is a popular destination with hikers and most serious outdoor photographers. Fairly remote, probably best not hiked alone. NFS |
Smith Creek PreserveDirections WebGPS: 35.93548, -93.38612 ( 8.2 miles, 10 minutes) Nature Conservency, hiking trail 500 ft. descent in 1 mile. Two track road, hiking trail, very scenic spring fed creek with outstanding spring wildflower show. Popular with photographers. Remote, don't hike alone. |
Boxley Valley Elk Herd(Highway 43 & 21) Directions WebGPS: 35.97717, -93.40219 ( 4.7 miles, 6 mins) Home of Arkansas' famous elk herd, arguably the most viewable in the southern US. Mornings and evenings, fall rut exceptional. |
Boxley Valley Mill PondDirectionsGPS: 35.98829, -93.40081 ( 3.9 miles, 4 mins) The historic spring fed Boxley Valley Mill Pond is home to a population of trumpeter swans, many different waterbirds, bald eagles in season, as well as beaver, mink, otters and the occaional raccoon. Popular with photographers and wildlife watchers. Very near the best elk viewing areas. |
Itinerary Builder -- Attractions Close to Ponca Elk Education Center
Lost Valley Hiking Trail(2 miles south of Ponca) DirectionsGPS: 36.00787, -93.36625 (1.3 miles, 2 mins) NPS The most popular hiking trail in the upper Buffalo River area. Barrier free stretch, suitable for families. Eden Falls, native american shelter, waterfall in cave, outstanding spring wildflowers. |
Color Fest 2016 -- October 14-15, 10 AM to 4:30 PM 870-861-2432
Color Fest is held each year at the Ponca Elk Education Center. It features an art show and art demonstrations and live music. Color Fest Flyer