Magnolia Falls, Arkansas Valley Travel Guide

4.8 (59)

Discover the serene beauty of Magnolia Falls, a hidden waterfall hike in the Ozark National Forest near Deer, Arkansas.

Magnolia Falls, nestled in the Upper Buffalo Wilderness near Deer, Arkansas, is a 26-foot waterfall cascading into a serene grotto. The moderate 2.1-mile roundtrip hike features a scenic creek, historic stone walls, and unique rock formations, offering a tranquil escape into nature.

A brief summary to Magnolia Falls

Deer, Arkansas, 72628, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Magnolia Falls.

Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Download an offline map, as cell service can be unreliable in the area.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the uneven terrain and potential rock scrambling.
Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months.
Be cautious near the bluff edges and creek crossings, as they can be slippery.

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Explore Magnolia Falls on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Magnolia Falls, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

To reach Magnolia Falls, navigate to Highway 21 between Mossville and Edwards Junction. Approximately 2.5 miles south of Mossville Church (or 1.8 miles north of Edwards Junction), turn west onto County Road 6 (Forest Road 1462), a significant gravel road. Drive about 0.3 miles to a pull-off parking area across from a 'Wilderness Access' sign. Parking is free along the roadside. Be aware that the road can be muddy after rain.
Walking

From the parking area, the trailhead starts on the right side of the road, across from the 'Wilderness Access' sign. Follow the old jeep road, which narrows into a trail. After about 1 mile, cross a small creek and turn left at the fork to reach Magnolia Falls. The falls are a short distance from the split. The final approach involves a short, steeper scramble to the base of the falls.

Discover more about Magnolia Falls

Magnolia Falls, a captivating 26-foot waterfall, is tucked away within the Ozark National Forest, near Deer, Arkansas. This hidden gem resides in the Upper Buffalo Wilderness, offering a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts. The trail to Magnolia Falls is a 2.1-mile roundtrip hike of moderate difficulty, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors.The adventure begins at the trailhead, marked by a 'Wilderness Access' sign on County Road 6 (also known as Forest Road 1462). The path follows an old jeep road, gradually narrowing into a single trail that winds through a lush forest. Along the way, hikers will encounter a small creek crossing and pass by remnants of early settlers, including historic stacked-stone walls and intriguing rock formations.As the trail descends, it eventually splits; the path to Magnolia Falls veers left, following the creek bed towards the falls. The waterfall is uniquely recognizable for its splash onto a rocky outcrop before it drops into a blue-green pool. The trail leads to the top of the falls, providing a pretty view, with a short scramble downhill required to reach the grotto and the base of the falls.For those seeking further exploration, the area boasts additional waterfalls, including Woods Boys Falls and Hadlock Cascade, accessible via connecting trails.