Hiking to Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls in Buffalo National River, Arkansas
Adventure Destination

Hiking to Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls in Buffalo National River, Arkansas

Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls is a 5-mile round-trip, challenging hike located near Compton, AR. It's the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and Appalachians. Ideal for adventure seekers, it offers breathtaking views, especially after rain. Best visited in late winter through early spring.

Hiking7.8/10Hard
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Hard

About This Adventure Destination

Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls, located within the breathtaking Buffalo National River area of Arkansas, is a must-visit for hikers seeking natural beauty and adventure. At an astonishing 209 feet, this waterfall holds the title of the tallest waterfall between the Rocky and Appalachian Mountains. Its striking height and distinctive seasonal flow make it a standout feature in the Ozark Mountains, offering visitors unforgettable scenery and a rewarding experience.

Editorial Assessment

Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls, located in the Buffalo National River area, is the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and the Appalachians, making it an appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The hike to the falls offers scenic views and a rewarding experience for those seeking adventure in a beautiful, natural setting.

Hiking to Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls in Buffalo National River, Arkansas

Adventure Guide to Hiking to Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls in Buffalo National River, Arkansas

1

- Trail Options and Difficulty: The most common trail to Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls starts from the Compton Trailhead. This 5-mile round-trip hike is challenging, with steep descents and climbs that demand physical fitness, especially on the way back. Alternatively, you can reach the falls via a shorter route from the Buffalo River, though this typically requires a canoe or kayak trip to access the trailhead. Consult a river guide service if opting for this approach.

  • Waterfall as a Highlight:

    The falls are most impressive after heavy rain, when water cascades dramatically into the hollow. During drier months, the waterfall is reduced to a trickle but still provides a serene backdrop for relaxation, lunch breaks, and photography. The journey's highlight is not just the falls but also the surrounding sandstone bluffs and dense hardwood forests.

  • Flora and Fauna:

    Along the trail, you’ll encounter native Arkansas plant species like dogwoods, ferns, and redbuds. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including white-tailed deer and a variety of bird species that thrive in the area.

2

Local Insights

  • Details:

    Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls has been a beloved destination for generations of outdoor enthusiasts, and the site is protected to preserve its beauty. Early visitors were local settlers, who marveled at this natural wonder long before it became a part of Buffalo National River.

  • Details:

    Historical ties to the Civilian Conservation Corps, responsible for early Arkansas trail improvements, lend additional significance to the site.

3

Visitor Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:

    Late winter through early spring, after rainfall, offers the best chance to view the falls at their fullest.

  • What to Bring:

    Comfortable hiking boots, water, snacks, a camera, and trekking poles for stability on steep sections.

  • Getting There:

    From Ozark, drive roughly 1.5 hours north to the Compton Trailhead parking area.

Reviews

S
sherilee koehna week ago

wow. what a hike. but so worth it 🤩

8
8x10 Glossya month ago

I had not been down there in at least 20 years. But when I heard how much rain was expected overnight, I had to go! Well worth the effort. Plan on a full day, though. It is a bugger of a climb out. 1400 feet in 2.6 miles. This the same as the Empire State Building, including the tower!

S
Shel Paw4 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

B
Brad Jonesa month ago

5 mile round trip. Someone in descent shape not in a hurry will spend about 5 hours. Well- marked trail. If it has rained recently the fall is even more amazing but your shoes will get muddy. It is all downhill to the fall and all uphill coming out. A walking stick or trekking pole can be very useful, especially when the trail is wet and rocks are slick. My favorite place in Arkansas.

M
Megan Wilcox4 months ago

Update 9/2024 - We hiked on a much cooler day and loved this hike, it honestly felt so much easier than when we came without enough water on a very hot day. I'd recommend fall or cooler weather. Hiking trail is very well maintained, and a really fun hike! We hiked from the Compton trailhead, this is obviously a strenuous hike up. Bring lots of water, bring extra water if hiking in the heat. Extremely easy going down, it took us about an hour and a half to get to the main water fall. The hike back was around an hour and a half, plus we hiked to the Buffalo River (the area for canoes) which added an hour. Going down we could almost run most of it except for the large rocks and stairs. We went several days after a rainy week so some areas on the trail were very muddy and slippery, so hiking sticks super helped there. The waterfall itself was running okay, but no more than normal after decent rains. It was windy so the water fall was blowing around which was very cool to watch. It's an easy hike over to the Buffalo River as well, which is beautiful, and the canoe/kayak people have a very easy hike over to the waterfall. The hike out was very difficult, mostly because we were having to ration our water supplies. The trail out is very steep, and levels off towards the parking area. There were a few groups that had to stop and let us pass, and no one passed us. We are moderate hikers, with good hiking experience and hike often, but we are not super fit.

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