A Little Closer To Heaven

Once again I’ve failed to deliver my “Top Ten Tuesday” on the right day of the week. No excuses this time…just laziness. Let’s recap :

 10. Hideout Hollow

9. Indian Creek

8. Buffalo River Float- Ponca to Carver

7. Fitton Cave

6. Hawksbill Crag

And now, the final five:

 

Don’t Ask…

 5. Big Bluff

A short 3 mile hike (6 round trip), leads to the highest bluff on the Buffalo River. It’s a considerably steep hike down to the bluff from the trailhead and a bushwack to the bluff itself. For those who make it: one of the best views on the Buffalo River. For a longer hike, head back to the trail and hike another mile down to Granny Henderson’s cabin, an 1800’s settlement that’s in great condition.

4. Lost Valley

This probably the most touristed place in the park, but there’s a good reason. A short, easy .75 mile hike leads to a beautiful waterfall.  For those feeling brave, you can head on up the trail to Lost Valley Cave. Head into the cave with some good lighting and you’ll be delighted to find a 35 foot waterfall in the back of it.

3. Hemmed-In Hollow

This is also one of the most famous places in the park. It’s the highest waterfall in the US between the Rockies and the Appalachians, and it’s one heck of a tough hike. Read about it here .

2. Shop Creek Slot Canyon

Quite possibly the only slot canyon in Arkansas, and in my opinion…the most beautiful place in Arkansas, too. Read about it here .

1. Buffalo River Trail

One of my favorite things to do in the Buffalo River is backpacking. This is a great place for beginners and experts alike. This 36.5 mile trail covers all of the most beautiful views along the Buffalo. It leads through, or at least spur trails to, all of the great sites in the park. It’s both challenging and beautiful. It’s also a great place for solitude. It sees a lot of backpackers, yet you only cross a few per day. With it’s unique wildlife (deer, elk, and black bears), caves, and great swimming holes, this trail just can’t be beat.

Next week: Top 10 winter hiking/camping tips. Do you have a tip that’s top ten worthy? Or maybe one that isn’t? Drop a comment and it may make the list. I’m sure people don’t just want my opinion on everything. Do you have an idea for a top ten list? Let me know, and I may use it in the future.

Stay tuned for a trip report tomorrow.

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