All writing and photos belong to For the Love of Wanderlust unless otherwise stated, Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on StumbleUpon (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window), Click to share on Flipboard (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window), Things to Do in Eureka Springs - Arkansas's Hippie Town, Travel Backpack Review: Classic 28L Bag by CabinZero, The Elephant House - Edinburgh, Scotland - A Harry Potter Pilgrimage, 7 Types of Exploration You Should Try At Least Once. Great day on the trail. The hardest part of the trail looks like an old gravel bed with a lot of loose rocks. YouTube, Travel Guides, Gear, & FAQs. Super safe trail until after you get past the eye and then it starts to feel a bit sketchy but worth it. Amina you would have fun hiking here! I like to do Easy/moderate hikes admist stunning natural beauty, ozarks looks just ideal! This isnt the best hike for someone with a crippling fear of heights.TRAIL TIPS: As always, take plenty of water. As we mentioned above, there are some ledges, some of which are somewhat narrow, especially at Big Bluff. You can see a list of the sites, as well as their season dates, amenities, and other details here! We unfortunately only had one day in the area, but we tried to squeeze in as much as we could. The Buffalo National River is home to a few more traditional campgrounds. My mom has a serious fear of heights, but Im so super proud of her because she made it to the amazing overview you see below! Not super wet until you hit the couple of runoff areas. Snow melting but not muddy. Wed highly recommend downloading the AllTrails map for the route youre hiking before you go. The Buffalo, situated down below, makes the perfect horseshoe bend. As long as youre cautious, youll be totally fine! Missing Couple, 29 and 27, Found Dead Inside Big Bear Forest - Peoplemag In her spare time she enjoys driving to the nearest creek to sit a while. This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and fishing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Hwy 43 Firetower Road junction Buffalo National River, Compton, AR 72624. The main Centerpoint Trail is easy to hike and is through the trees. The Goat Trail along Big Bluff - JEFF ROSE What restaurants are near Big Bluff & The Goat Trail? If you start this hike in the afternoon, carry a light source just in case you're out after dark. With cabins, RV sites, and even lodges that can sleep 30+ people, there are a variety of accommodations. Loving your adventures and loving these views too! Thats not a joke. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! The spur trail (Goat Trail) to Big Bluff is off to the right of the fire ring. Very rocky getting down but doable. A lot of parking at trailhead and it was muddy when I went but over all was good (12/18/2022). From Ponca, drive 3 miles north on Hwy 43 to the Centerpoint Trailhead, located at the Firetower Road junction. Great hiking. I was lucky to find it - Review of Big Bluff & The Goat Trail, Compton I love getting outdoors and into the wilderness. The view of the Buffalo River from Big Bluff. Although there are no waterfalls on this trail, there are quite a few in the area, so itll give you more options of hikes to do before or after. Its a downhill trek until you get to the Goat Trail, but it never felt super steep. Just dont fall off. But the best part is that its all located on a great property with a store for your adventure needs and access to tons of activities, like kayaking, ziplining, mountain biking, and close proximity to hikes! Enjoy this 9.5-km out-and-back trail near Ponca, Arkansas. The Goat Trail takes hikers along the narrow edge of Big Bluff with a sheer vertical drop to the Buffalo National River in northern Arkansas. Bringing a lunch and have a picnic at the Bluff is a memory that we will cherish. Today was our last hike of our weeks vacation in the Buffalo National River park, and we started at the Centerpoint trail head. You could likely squeeze through this hole, but wed suggest going down below it on the more traditional trail to get around it. The hike down to Big Bluff is relatively easy, though rocky. From the parking lot to Big Bluff, the trail travels mostly downhill, so it's important to conserve energy, drinking water, and snacks for the uphill hike back to your car. Again, avoid is a strong word. Nine of those deaths took place in 2014. It is considered the tallest along the Buffalo at over 500 ft. tall. Looks like such a lovely hike!! But it is a gradual incline the whole way. The trail map claims 3 miles to the start of Big Bluff from the Center-point Trail Head. The Goat trail EASILY provides one of the BEST scenic views of the Buffalo River. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. Parking lot is at a crossroads and the trail is clearly marked. Enjoy the view but use extreme caution on Big Bluff. This post contains affiliate links, which means well receive a commission if you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you. We love creating short videos so you can visualize the trail conditions before your trip. 90 minute drive got us to the Centerpoint trailhead. Restaurants near Big Bluff & The Goat Trail: Attractions near Big Bluff & The Goat Trail: 99% of travelers recommend this experience. Enjoy the lake, folks, but be careful. We hiked here mid-week during early December, and the weather was perfect. But please dont lean over and topple onto the ground below. If you make a purchase with Amazon.com through For the Love of Wanderlust, you will help me stay on the road + keep my site running at no additional cost for you. In this hiking guide were sharing all of the details about hiking to Big Bluff on the Goat Trail, including where to start, trail stats, things to know before you go, our experience, as well as some other spots to check out nearby. Come on an email adventure with us! The Goat trail EASILY provides one of the BEST scenic views of the Buffalo River. Seriously, watch that water coming down out of the mountains. Well done to your Mum for doing this! Loved the hike back up. However, the Goat Trail runs along this cliff face at around 340 feet above the river. Big Bluff - Goat Trail on the Buffalo River - YouTube It was neat to see them. there is a shorter hike alternative that is only 3 miles instead if 6 if you want less hiking. Although there are several ways to reach Goat Trail, which follows along the edge of Big Bluff, Centerpoint Trail is arguably the most popular route. The main Centerpoint Trail is easy to hike and is through the trees. more, The Haygoods: Branson's Most Popular Show, The Petersens at The Little Opry Theatre in Branson, Admission ticket to The Texas Tenors in Branson, Beyond The Lens! Parking lot is pretty decent, not to busy, saw about 3-4 different groups. To get to the Goat Trail, start the hike from Centerpoint Trailhead. The view from the bluffs in breathtaking as you stand right at the edge and overlook the buffalo. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { It is best to get here around sunrise or close to sunset to have the best chance to see some elk. There are no restrooms at the trailhead, so be prepared to go to the restroom in advance (JB Trading Co is close by and has a gas station and convenience store) or go in the woods, but make sure to pack out any toilet paper! Super pretty and worth it. Follow along on her adventures - big and small - across this beautiful world. Taking on a good hike is a great way to do that and would definitely consider this one when I am in the Arkansas area. Big Spring, Blue Spring, and Falling Spring, Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park: Suburban Mushroom Heaven, Three Creeks Conservation Area: A Columbia Favorite, Why I Mushroom Hunt: A Scientists Perspective on Foraging, Amazing Health Benefits of Eating Wild Mushrooms, Sustainable Mushroom Foraging, and Why its so Important, Whites Creek Trail: An Incredible Hub of Biodiversity. Super tight view all the same. Follow this old road until you see the . It gets its name from the feral descendants of domesticated goats (brought here by pioneers) who either escaped captivity or were turned loose in the wilderness and eventually became wild. If camping during the winter, there are vault toilets. What a beautiful spot for hiking. Check out our other articles related to hiking and camping in Arkansas: Feel free to leave us a comment below if you have any questions. She's a road trip aficionado, an avid hiker, lover of learning + culture and an all-around wanderess. It is not advisable to bring children, liquor, or reckless behavior on this hike. Before you read any further, we wanted to clear up the trails name. Looking for more things to do in Arkansas? more information Accept. Absolutely incredible views but the return hike is challenging. : Jake Thomas Gardipee, 5 Only reason for the 4 stars is the return was all uphill the whole way and that snow and ice on the trail was much more an issue. Big Bluff - Goat Trail - Always Pack Light The Centerpoint Trailhead is located five minutes or 3.3 miles north of Ponca, Arkansas, off AR HWY 43 N. Ponca is an adorable mountain town in the middle of (almost) nowhere within the upper Buffalo National River. The Centerpoint trail is broad and easy to walk, although like so many trails in mountainous Buffalo River country, its basically uphill all the way back (2.5 miles). On the way back, the hike is all uphill, which makes it a bit harder, but minus a couple pretty steep sections, which had us huffing and puffing a bit, its not too difficult. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. In 2007, a man really did that. haha. This crazy formation is inside one of the overhangs. { These are thing we (or our travel companions) have used and recommend specifically for the Big Bluff trail. I looked back from the narrow, rock ledge part of the trail and captured this adorable photo. To get to the Goat Trail, start the hike from Centerpoint Trailhead. The most popular hiking destination from Centerpoint is Big Bluff, which features a panoramic vista of the Buffalo River and surrounding wilderness. The trail ends at the juncture of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail. If you were to visit her, she'd try to feed you cornbread. Get a FREE packing list and gear guide from us detailing exactly what we take on a camping and hiking trip! what does greyson mean in the bible This is the main Centerpoint Trail. Just saying.. am I the only one wondering that? These views show, not only how narrow the ledge gets, but also how tall that bluff is above you. The footbridge will be re-installed in late-Spring 2023. I love hiking and exploring new trails. It gets its name from the feral descendents of domesticated goats (brought here by pioneers) who either escaped captivity or were turned loose in the wilderness and eventually became wild. This hike is one of the most popular hikes in the Buffalo National River and its no surprise why, as it features some of the best things the area has to offer: river views, mountains, and unique rock outcroppings. Please read ourfull disclosurefor more information. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Would love to hike the Big Bluff Goat Trail with my family! It is one of our absolute favorite hikes in the Ozarks (along with hiking the Whitaker Point Trail). You should go forth and explore the Natural States breathtaking beauty. The spur trails connect the Centerpoint trail with the Chimney Rock Trail, Sneeds Creek Trail, Big Bluff Trail, Compton Loop Trail, and Hemmed-in Hollow Trail. Why Camping at Buffalo Point Campground is Awesome! Description : The first two miles of this Ozarks trail meanders through deep Ozarks forest and leads to the Big Bluff that is over 500 feet tall. This is where the trail corridor opens up into a large, rounded flat area with a fire ring that directionally is at about one oclock on your right. We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location. Had we visited a week or two sooner, we can only imagine how even more gorgeous it wouldve been! The Buffalo National River and Ozark Mountains are incredibly scenic and reminded us a bit of driving around West Virginia. My husband and I hiked the Compton trail down and then took the old river trail and came out at Centerpoint. The cookie settings on this website are set to "allow cookies" to give you the best browsing experience possible. To arrive at the Goat Trail you must first start at the Centerpoint trailhead. Youll hear and read the route called different names, but they all mean the same thing. The trail is tight in places (where it gets the Goat Trail name) and not suitable for young children. The river water has a clear, blue color, which contrasted super nicely with the yellow and orange leaves we witnessed. Shortly after our arrival at Big Bluff, it became quite clear that a storm was rolling in, and fast. Its the spring, and theres no better place in the world to be. } And , Many people love mushrooms. Bring water and snacks, it helps to enjoy the final view :). OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. The fork to the right is NOT MARKED with an obvious trail sign but takes you to the Big Bluff (Goat Trail). Round trip 6.5 miles is a good morning hike, and I like the option to add on. You'll have a very scenic look over the Buffalo River valley, the river flows all the way through the Ozark Mountains, but exercise extreme caution as people have died falling off the trail. Users of the outdoors website All Trails rated Cougar Crest 4.5 out of 5 stars and listed it as "moderate." Related Articles It can be easy to miss. 360122 N 932147 W Learn how your comment data is processed. The Big Bluff Trail, AR | Drive The Nation There is a dedicated parking lot for the hike which has room for probably about 15 cars. The Goat Trail to Big Bluff is 5.9 miles roundtrip and has an elevation change of 1,076 feet. All the rain that we get in springtime makes for beautiful, lush trees, wildflowers are beginning to bloom and the river is higher. The trail is downhill all the way to Big Bluff, so the hike back to the parking lot is all uphill. It is important to note that Goat Trail is not a place for those afraid of heights. Weve been in the spring, summer and fall. There are a few names for hiking to this specific viewpoint in Buffalo National River. The differences between your fall and summer pics are so stunning! The Buffalo National River is a designated International Dark Sky Park, recognizing and protecting its exceptionally dark and starry skies. In 2015, an intrepid hiker tried just that, fell through the hole, and had to be airlifted to the hospital. Big Bluff is part of the Buffalo River Trail, so don't think the trail will simply end. She is married to an expat Argentine, Pablo! We hear that the trail takes about 3-4 hours for most people to complete this hike, but plan extra time if you want to stop for snacks or if you like to take your time hiking.If youre visiting the Buffalo National River, we couldnt recommend this trail more! 6.5 miles sounds like the perfect distance for a day trip , Had no idea you could see such beauty in Arkansas. Service animals permitted. Buffalo Outdoor Center is an adventure lovers dream! My wife and I drove down from Springfield Mo after friends told us how great this hike was. Big Bluff & The Goat Trail - Tripadvisor Views from the bluffs are incomparable, and it served as the perfect place to catch up on some reading on a beautiful sunny day. We hope it helps you plan an epic adventure in the Buffalo National River! Inside them are nice spots for some shade. Trails at Andrew Molera State Park allow for bicycling and hiking. Its pretty safe from down below, but climbing the bluff to see it from the top may endanger your neck. Youll probably want bug spray in the summer. It's approximately 6.5 miles round trip and moderately hard due to the loose rocks and incline. In this guide were sharing everything you need to know before hiking the Goat Trail to Big Bluff in the Buffalo National River, including trail stats, what to bring, and more!Despite living in Texas for the majority of our lives, we never visited Arkansas and boy, were we missing out! Its not a good idea to lean over the top of a mountain, for example. A rugged, strenuous hike through the Ponca Wilderness to one of Buffalo National River's most expansive vistas. All rights reserved. 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Now going back to your car is an uphill incline. Since the return hike is all uphill, youll definitely want some water, especially if you hike on a hot, sunny day! What attractions are near Big Bluff & The Goat Trail? Camp on Big Bluff, Compton, Arkansas - The Outbound Never been to Arkansas but would love to visit this trail. There are about 800 Rocky Mountain elk, which were brought to the area to replace the Eastern elk that had gone extinct. Dogs are only allowed at campgrounds, on the river, and on the gravel bars, but must be on leash. In addition to the massive bluff, it overlooks one of the most stunning views of the Buffalo River, especially in the spring when the water is higher. Goat Trail is on our list this fall! Looks like a great place to hike and some amazing views for your rewards. Your email address will not be published. And now back to the bluff There are a few caves where thebluff overhangs. ), understanding campfire rules and always fully extinguishing your fires, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. Hiking back was no joke! Love Arkansas? Pass Ponca and travel up a significant uphill. 10 Most Dangerous Spots In Arkansas Nature - OnlyInYourState big bluff goat trail deaths - casessss.com Its truly something to marvel at. Walking along the bluff is a fun and more unique hiking experience and the views of the river as it winds through the area are hard to beat! Documented service animals welcome. The trail's destination is the Big Bluff overlooking the Buffalo River. Wed suggest starting the hike early so you can enjoy the bluff without a lot of people, which will make it feel safer and more enjoyable.Although, we will agree, if you do not like heights, you may not love Big Bluff. And for goodness sake, please dont drink and boat. This creek level is OK. Feel free to splash around in water levels two or three times this highjust know that flash flooding is a real problem in the springtime, and water levels can rise suddenly. Your email address will not be published. It's very steep, and very dangerous. The parking lot for the Centerpoint Trailhead fills up quickly. Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information. It is considered the tallest along the Buffalo at over 500 ft. tall. ! Your email address will not be published.