Established in 1972, the Buffalo National River in Northwest Arkansas flows freely for 135 miles and is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. Unlike rivers that are fed by perennial springs, the Buffalo is largely rainfall-dependent.
Seventy percent of visitors float on thirty percent of the Buffalo River – the upper district, specifically Ponca to Kyle’s Landing.
The ten-mile section is hands-down the most popular paddle due to a combination of turquoise-colored water and dramatic scenery.
On this stretch of river, paddlers will meander past towering bluffs, hidden side-canyons, and the remains of early settlements. The fast-moving water alternates between tumbling rapids (Class I or Class II) depending on water levels and long, calm pools with plenty of gravel bars to pull up to.
I visited last month – spring and early summer are the best times to go – with my friend, Michelle, to hike and paddle. Water levels were pretty high that day. The swift current kept us on our toes as we gawked at the scenery.
From the river, we spotted climbers navigating the sheer rock walls.
We even passed the Big Bluff, where we made out parts of the popular Goat Trail. We had trekked the Goat Trail the day before, and it was fun to spot the ant-sized hikers from this vantage point.
About halfway through, we pulled off the river to hike to the Hemmed-In Hollow waterfall. It’s a strenuous hike from the trailhead at the top. But from the river, it’s only about twenty minutes of easy walking – less than a mile. The waterfall at Hemmed-In-Hollow is the tallest between the Rockies and the Appalachians, clocking in at 200-plus feet.
It’s important to check the water level of the river before you go.
If it’s too high, the trip is more suitable for experienced floaters. Too low, and you’ll find yourself dragging your kayak or canoe from time to time. The Buffalo Outdoor Center has a link on its website where water levels on all river sections are updated throughout the day.
We brought our own kayaks, but plenty of outfitters offer kayaks, canoes, and even rafts for rent. If you bring your own boats and don’t have two vehicles to run your own shuttle, you can select shuttle service at the outfitter of your choice.
After paying the fee and filling out a few forms, I gave the attendant an extra set of keys to my truck, then drove it to the site where our float trip began. When we got off the river that afternoon, the truck was waiting for us with the extra set of keys tucked under the floor mat. Easy peasy.
The area surrounding the Buffalo River is gorgeous – there’s a reason Arkansas is called The Natural State – and offers plenty of outdoor recreation. So put it on your radar now that warmer temps have arrived.
As always, thanks for reading! Check out my new book Stuff I Wish I Knew Before I Went Hiking: Tales and a Few Fails From the Trail.
