Arkansas’ Buffalo River is famous for its scenic floating and paddling experiences, but the land surrounding it also boasts some of the state’s best hiking trails.
The Upper Buffalo area near Ponca, Boxley Valley, and Compton is particularly popular for outdoor adventures, yet one hidden gem remains relatively unknown—Balanced Rock Falls.
Tucked away on an unmarked trail, this moderate hike offers a unique mix of rock formations and a stunning waterfall, making it a must-see for anyone craving a less-traveled path.
Here’s everything you need to know about hiking to Balanced Rock Falls.
Finding the Trailhead
Unlike many trails in the Upper Buffalo area, Balanced Rock Falls isn’t listed on popular maps like the Buffalo River NPS hiking page or the Hiking Project App.
Instead, you can locate this hike through the AllTrails app. To start, navigate to the Ponca low-water bridge and park nearby. Walk across the bridge and look for the brown sign marking the Buffalo River Trail.
To the left of this marked trail, you’ll find an unmarked path—this is the start of your journey to Balanced Rock Falls.
The Best Time to Hike
Balanced Rock Falls is most enjoyable in late fall or winter. During this season, the variety of tree colors creates a vibrant landscape, and the fallen leaves, while sometimes obscuring parts of the trail, still add charm to the hike.
Spring and summer can bring thicker underbrush, making the trail harder to follow and increasing the likelihood of ticks and mosquitoes.
So, if you’re planning a trip, aim for the cooler months for a more comfortable experience.
Navigating the Trail
This moderate trail largely follows Leatherwood Creek, making it easy to keep your bearings. The path can be a bit challenging to spot where it crosses the creek, but staying close to the water ensures you’re on the right track.
A notable landmark is a shale waterfall and creek bed that flows into Leatherwood Creek. About 20 yards upstream from here, the trail veers up a steep embankment towards the falls.
Though most of the hike is flat and manageable, the final climb up this muddy embankment adds a level of difficulty.
Once you make this ascent, you’ll reach the stunning V-shaped gorge with Balanced Rock perched atop the falls. The trail wraps around the right side of the gorge, giving you a top-down view of the cascading water.
Balanced Rock Falls: What to Expect
At the end of your climb, you’ll be rewarded with a unique view—a giant boulder seemingly balanced above the falls in a natural rock formation.
The water flows through the V-shaped crevice and beneath this imposing rock, creating a picturesque scene that’s well worth the trek.
For those who enjoy exploring, the trail continues around the right side and offers a path up to the top of the falls, where you can witness the creek cascading down toward Balanced Rock.
The entire round-trip hike to Balanced Rock Falls is just over a mile, so you can complete it in under two hours.
While the hike is relatively short, its secluded charm and stunning scenery make it an ideal spot for hikers seeking a memorable and peaceful outing.
Nearby Trails for a Full-Day Adventure
If you’re looking to extend your hiking adventure, the Upper Buffalo area offers plenty of other notable trails. Popular options nearby include Lost Valley, the Big Bluff/Centerpoint Trail (also known as Goat Trail), and Whitaker Point.
Each of these trails offers its own unique landscape and views of the Buffalo River valley, making them great additions for a full day of exploring.
Keep in mind that cell service is unavailable in the Ponca valley area, so be sure to download maps and make any necessary calls before you arrive.
What to Bring
Packing smart for this hike will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. If you’re hiking after a recent rain, water shoes are a great choice for crossing the creek.
Spring and summer hikers should also bring bug spray, as the area can attract mosquitoes and ticks during warmer months. You’ll find supplies, snacks, and restrooms in Ponca, with two local stores available for any last-minute necessities.
Once you finish your hike, nearby dining options like the Low Gap Café in Jasper offer the perfect spot to grab a meal and relax.
For those wanting to make a weekend of it, cabins and campgrounds are scattered around the Buffalo National River area, giving you a chance to explore other trails at a leisurely pace.
Leave No Trace
As with any adventure in nature, it’s crucial to respect the land. The Buffalo National River is a treasure, and by following Leave No Trace principles, hikers can help preserve its beauty.
Be sure to pack out all trash, stay on the trail, and avoid disturbing the natural surroundings. Taking only photographs and leaving only footprints ensures that future visitors can enjoy the area just as you did.
Final Note
Balanced Rock Falls may be one of Arkansas’ best-kept secrets, offering a beautiful blend of rocky cliffs, flowing water, and serene woodland.
While this trail may be hidden, it’s a rewarding hike for anyone looking to experience the less-traveled paths of the Buffalo River area.
From finding the unmarked trailhead to navigating the rocky terrain, this hike offers just the right mix of adventure and beauty. So, if you’re planning a visit to the Upper Buffalo, make time for this short yet stunning hike—it’s a journey you won’t soon forget.