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Ultimate Hiking Lost Valley: Trail Options + How To
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Updated: April 2024
Rarely do you find a hiking trail with such diversity as Lost Valley Trail at the Buffalo National River. Being able to choose your length of hike AND have a variety of choices is not common. What you need to know about hiking Lost Valley…
Lost Valley, in Ponca Arkansas, has 4 options for adventure. Let’s dive into the details of each trail and see which adventure fits your needs!
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Table of Contents
Hiking Lost Valley Option #1
The basic trail will lead you along a well-maintained path to Natural Bridge, Eden Falls, Cobb Cave (large cliff dwelling), and the Eden Falls Cave entrance. This is an estimated 2.3-mile out-and-back hike, suitable for small children.
It takes about an hour to complete (excluding play time for the kids). Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and bug spray (depending on the time of year).
You will encounter many people on this popular trail. (Pets are not permitted, per the sign at the trailhead, but often seen on the trail)
Hiking Lost Valley Option #2
The next hiking Lost Valley adventure option begins on the same trail but involves exploring Natural Bridge.
If you climb through Natural Bridge, you can climb and crawl on boulders along the Clark Creek bed to reach Cobb Cave (a 200ft bluff shelter).
And then a little further upstream, you reach the base of Lower Eden Falls (53ft waterfall). If it’s a hot and dry summer, the water will likely not be flowing.
This is unsuitable for young children, as navigating can be difficult. We find this to be the most challenging and adventurous route to the falls.
Once you reach the base of the falls, a path will lead you back to the main trail. Pack a few extra snacks to fuel the increased activity level of this adventure.
Hiking Boots
My hiking boots: Columbia Women’s Facet 75 Mid Outdry Hiking Shoe
Hiking Lost Valley Option #3
At the far end of the trail is the Eden Fall’s Cave entrance. The opening to the cave can be easily explored without extra equipment. The cave has no lighting or developed pathways.
If you follow the narrow path back through the cave, approximately 200ft, you will find a large room with a 30ft underground waterfall (it can be tricky to find the right turn during the path).
Because of the narrow paths, you will need to leave any backpacks at the cave’s entrance. You will need a light source to navigate this cave and view the waterfall at the back. (Follow all usual cave precautions and safety tips.)
Hiking Lost Valley Option #4
The 4th option is another path off of the Lost Valley Trail. This path is not really a “trail” and is not marked on the AllTrails app.
From the main trailhead, a rough estimate of 1 mile, there is a creek that feeds into Clark Creek (on the opposite side of the creek).
During dry spells, both water sources are dry at this intersection (but waterfalls upstream will still be flowing). If you follow this very rough canyon upstream you will find multiple small waterfalls and cascades.
recommended book
Arkansas Waterfalls
The Arkansas Waterfalls book states the Armadillo Falls are approximately 200ft upstream (but felt much longer to me!). At the far end of this trail (ending at the bluffs) there will be 3 waterfalls that you can see at the same time.
You can make it to the base of the first 2 waterfalls (18ft and 24ft tall). The 3rd is out of reach (without special climbing equipment).
This 4th out-and-back trail adventure took us about an hour with 2 adults, a kid, and a dog. This trail is not suitable for young children.
If you choose to experience ALL of the sights on this trail, be sure to pack a lunch to refuel after your adventure. And, if you get super lucky, on your way out of the parking lot you may see some ELK!
Hiking Backpack
My backpack: Lowe Alpine AirZone Active Backpack for Day Hiking
Whitaker Point Hiking Guide
All the details you need to plan a stress-free hike to see the most photographed spot in Arkansas: Whitaker Point (aka Hawksbill Crag).
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Oh my gosh this looks so cool! I had no idea there were caves like that in Arkansas. Thank you for sharing!
Sounds like fun with all the trails and caves to explore. I used to do that with my dog also.
Never done hiking before but the nature pictures are gorgeous. Thanks for sharing!
I’ve never been to Arkansas but this article has made me want to! Thanks for sharing
This proves that Arkansas is definitely worth a visit. I love hiking and these trails look so fun and scenic! Would love to try them.
This looks so stunning. What a beautiful place to live near to. Glad you had a great adventure.