Hike to Scenic Big Bluff
Compton, Arkansas
Details
Distance
6 miles
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Seth Cagle
Panoramic views of the Buffalo River Valley. Impressive bluff formations. Opportunities to camp along the trail. 6 miles round trip. Great for groups.
The hike starts at the Centerpoint Trailhead and follows a clearly defined trail for 3 miles (approximately one hour) with mostly downhill or flat terrain and views through the trees of the rolling Ozark landscape. When you are almost to Big Bluff, the trail opens up into a large round area with a fire pit in the middle. At this point the trail splits into two paths. Take the trail to the right at about 2 o' clock. The trail will narrow down and quickly start following the bluff wall and before long lead you to your ultimate destination, Big Bluff.
The Bluff offers many spots to sit and chill to take in the panoramic scene as well as the beautiful rock formations. In the spring and summer, you can watch people in kayaks and canoes float down the Buffalo River just below you. This spot is great year round. In the spring and summer the valley turns into a lush jungle of wildlife and vegetation, a mix of bold colors in autumn, and winter offers the chance of a snow covered landscape. For those seeking beautiful starry skies, you can make your way out onto the bluff at night for unhindered views of the stars and even possibly a peek at the milky way due to low light pollution at this remote location. Use caution and make sure to have a good flashlight or headlamp though, because hiking along a bluff line with steep cliffs can be dangerous in the dark.
Easy parking for the hike to Big Bluff is located off of AR highway 43 approximately 3 miles north of Ponca, AR and is marked as the Centerpoint Trailhead.
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Reviews
Amazing views, but saying it was a strenuous hike would be an understatement. Ledges of bluffs are narrow, so take your time and watch your step. Definitely my favorite hike in Arkansas.
5.0
The hike to Big Bluff is almost all downhill so it goes fairly fast. The views on the bluff are unlike anything I have ever seen. You can see for miles. Make sure to be safe because it is a very tall bluff. The hike out is mostly uphill so be prepared
5.0
This was one of the best views of the river that we saw. We started from Compton trailhead and went across to Centerpoint trailhead which took a while longer, but very worth it!
5.0
Bring your camera because Big Bluff is incredible. I definitely recommend bringing trekking poles and water for this hike. It can be steep and very rocky at some points.
5.0
Love this hike. It's one we always take Arkansas first time hikers. Easy on the way there. The hill on the way out will getcha. Some of the best views. On a still day, you can hear the Buffalo below.
5.0
Did this hike for the first time last weekend. Great views of the ozarks and Buffalo river. Great fall hike when the leaves are in peak color
5.0
Gorgeous views. Be prepared for the hike out. It's a doozy!
5.0
Great hike with an unbelievable view on the bluff
5.0
Leave No Trace
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Nearby
Backpacking Along the Buffalo River
Camp on Big Bluff
Camp along the Buffalo National River via Steel Creek
Hike to Steel Creek Overlook
Camp along the Buffalo National River
Hike the Buffalo River Trail (Ponca to Steel Creek)
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