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Tea Kettle Falls Trail

Huntsville, Arkansas

3.2/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

2.97 miles

Elevation Gain

289 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jon King

Tea Kettle Falls Trail leads to a unique 46' Arkansas waterfall which carved its way through a limestone bluff.

Finding Tea Kettle Falls is the most challenging part of this adventure. The trailhead is located in the McIlroy-Madison County Wildlife Management Area in northwest Arkansas. From Forum, travel 6.5 miles north on Hwy 23 to gravel road #447. It is approximately 13 miles south of Eureka Springs (1.4 miles south of the Hwy 12 junction). There is no sign for gravel road #447 but you should see a large shed on the east side of the road. Head to the bottom of the gravel road. There is a meadow on the right hand side of the road with a small parking area. Hike through the field until it meets the treeline and you will find the trailhead.

You have two options to hike to the falls. First, you can follow the trail on the right hand side of Warm Fork Creek. The trail is not well marked or maintained and requires a bit of bushwhacking. The trail eventually crosses the creek and you follow it to the falls.

The other option is to simply follow the creek downstream instead of using the trail. Personally, I found this route easier and more enjoyable. At approximately 1 mile you’ll see the smaller Reynold’s Falls to the left of the creek. Shortly after Reynold’s Falls, follow the next drainage to the left. Kettle hollow and Tea Kettle Falls is approximately 100 yards up the drainage.

During the spring, the water typically is ankle to knee deep. Bring a sturdy pair of sandals for creek crossings. Also, I suggest using a walking stick if you’re walking the creek. Tea Kettle only runs after a good rain. Early spring with be your best bet to see the falls in full force.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
River
Scenic
Waterfall

Tea Kettle Falls Trail Reviews

Spectacular waterfall.....when it's flowing. Wait to visit this one after a good rain. You will get wet feet crossing the Creek multiple times. There is a spot that allows you to climb to the top of this waterfall on the left side as you look at Tea Kettle Falls.

The directions led to someone's private property

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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