The recent rains have revitalized natural state. Waterfalls throughout Arkansas are flowing at full force which means its time to hit the trails. One of our favorites is the Eden Falls in Lost Valley State Park near Ponca. Anytime is a great time to explore the outdoors but if you’re wanting to avoid the crowds we recommend planning a weekday adventure. Let’s put on our boots and start hiking the Lost Valley Trail.
The Lost Valley Trail is a perfect hike to being the spring season.
AllTrails/Tom Zygor
The trail is a kid-friendly. Hike there and back in just under two miles.
AllTrails/Tom Zygor
Do keep in mind there is some elevation gain about halfway.
AllTrails/Sally Ulianich
Everything is well marked, so there’s no chance of missing Eden.
AllTrails/Juanette Martinez
There’s plenty of interesting side-stops along the trail.
Flickr/Dave Thomas
Sightseeing includes wildlife, the picturesque Clark Creek, small waterfalls, and the natural bridge. There’s also a cave system to explore.
AllTrails/Jeremy Strandlien Here’s a tidbit: when you enter the cave be sure to go all the way to the back and stay to the left. There’s a small passageway to see a waterfall hiding inside the cave. Take caution though and have a flashlight handy!
The trek will be worth it once you reach Eden Falls.
Flickr/AR Nature Gal
Take time to just relax and take in the sounds of the falls echoing throughout the canyon.
Flickr/AR Nature Gal
The 53-ft. waterfall is simply gorgeous!
AllTrails/Mallory Martinson Anyone that appreciates Arkansas’ natural beauty needs to take this hike. To reach the trailhead, simply take Hwy. 43 from Ponce to Boxley (keep an eye out for the Boxley Valley Elk). After two miles, you’ll see the sign for the Lost Valley Campground turn off.
If you’d like more details about directions and traversing the trail, you can visit this site.
AllTrails/Tom Zygor
AllTrails/Sally Ulianich
AllTrails/Juanette Martinez
Flickr/Dave Thomas
AllTrails/Jeremy Strandlien
Here’s a tidbit: when you enter the cave be sure to go all the way to the back and stay to the left. There’s a small passageway to see a waterfall hiding inside the cave. Take caution though and have a flashlight handy!
Flickr/AR Nature Gal
AllTrails/Mallory Martinson
Anyone that appreciates Arkansas’ natural beauty needs to take this hike. To reach the trailhead, simply take Hwy. 43 from Ponce to Boxley (keep an eye out for the Boxley Valley Elk). After two miles, you’ll see the sign for the Lost Valley Campground turn off.
What’s your favorite trail to take after a good rain? Share your favorite falls with us in the comments below!
Ponca is positively popping with outdoor activities, here are some more ideas for your next visit.
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