Big Bluff Goat Trail: A Majestic Ozark Adventure
Experience breathtaking views from atop Big Bluff along the Goat Trail, a must-do hike in Arkansas' Buffalo National River.
Hike the Big Bluff Goat Trail in Compton, Arkansas, for breathtaking panoramic views of the Buffalo National River from atop one of the tallest bluffs between the Rockies and the Appalachians. This moderately strenuous 6-mile hike offers a unique geological experience and stunning vistas.
A brief summary to Big Bluff Goat Trail
- Compton, Arkansas, 72624, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot at the Centerpoint Trailhead has limited spaces.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trail is rocky and the return hike is primarily uphill.
- Exercise caution on the Goat Trail, as it is narrow with steep drop-offs.
- Visit in late spring or early fall for mild weather and vibrant foliage.
- Check recent trail reviews for current conditions, such as fallen trees or muddy areas.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach the Big Bluff Goat Trail, navigate to the Centerpoint Trailhead, located off Highway 43, approximately 3 miles north of Ponca, Arkansas. From Harrison, Arkansas, travel south on Highway 43 for about 21 miles. The trailhead is on the left side of the highway, across from the Centerpoint Campground on Fire Tower Road. Parking is free but limited, so arrive early, especially on weekends. There are no fees or tolls to access the trailhead or trail.
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Walking
From the Centerpoint Trailhead, the hike to Big Bluff is approximately 6 miles roundtrip via the Centerpoint Trail and Goat Trail. Follow the well-marked Centerpoint Trail for about 2.5 miles until you reach the intersection with the Goat Trail. Turn right onto the Goat Trail and continue for about 0.5 miles to reach Big Bluff. The Goat Trail is narrow and requires careful footing. Allow 4-6 hours for the roundtrip hike.
Discover more about Big Bluff Goat Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Granny Henderson Cabin
1.0 km
Explore the historical richness and natural beauty at Granny Henderson Cabin, a charming landmark in Compton, Arkansas.
Centerpoint Trailhead
3.6 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning vistas of Centerpoint Trailhead in the Ozark National Forest, perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Round Top Mountain Trail
15.0 km
Explore scenic trails, discover fascinating rock formations, and reflect on history at Round Top Mountain near Jasper, Arkansas.
Northwest Arkansas Travel Guide (Home of the Best of NWA Top 10 Lists)
23.6 km
Unlock the best of Northwest Arkansas! Your guide to top restaurants, hotels, activities, and hidden gems in the scenic Ozark Mountain region.
Harrison, Arkansas National Historic District
27.7 km
Explore the Harrison, Arkansas National Historic District, where history and charm blend seamlessly in a beautifully preserved setting.
Buffalo National River Headquarters
28.0 km
Plan your Ozark adventure at the Buffalo National River Headquarters in Harrison, Arkansas. Explore America's first national river!
Shoe Sensation
28.6 km
Explore stylish footwear at Shoe Sensation in Harrison, Arkansas – your go-to shop for quality shoes, boots, and running gear.
Richland Creek Wilderness
42.1 km
Discover pristine waterfalls and rugged beauty in Arkansas's Richland Creek Wilderness, a haven for adventurous hikers and nature lovers.
Union School House
46.5 km
Explore the Union School House in Hagarville, Arkansas, a historical landmark that captures the essence of early 20th-century education in a beautiful natural setting.
Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area
46.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and unique rock formations of Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area in the heart of Arkansas's Ozark National Forest.
Valentine-Williams House
47.0 km
Discover the Valentine-Williams House in Arkansas: A beautifully preserved historical landmark offering a glimpse into the past.
Eureka springs
48.2 km
Explore the historic charm and natural beauty of Eureka Springs, a hidden gem in the Ozark Mountains with rich culture and vibrant arts.
Quigley's Castle
50.8 km
Discover the enchanting Quigley's Castle in Eureka Springs, where vibrant gardens meet whimsical art in a unique arboretum and museum experience.
Collier Homestead
50.9 km
Discover the rich history and natural beauty of Collier Homestead, a captivating historical landmark along the Buffalo River Trail in Arkansas.
Buffalo National River
51.7 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and recreational activities at Buffalo National River, a must-visit natural reserve in Arkansas.
Unmissable attractions to see
Buffalo National River Wilderness - Ponca Unit
0.9 km
Discover the wild beauty of Arkansas in the Ponca Unit: hiking, floating, and breathtaking views await in this natural paradise.
Hemmed-In Hollow Falls
2.6 km
Discover Arkansas's tallest waterfall: A challenging hike to the breathtaking Hemmed-In Hollow Falls in Buffalo National River's Ponca Wilderness.
Boxley Valley Historic District
4.8 km
Explore the enchanting Boxley Valley Historic District, where history meets stunning natural landscapes in the heart of Arkansas.
Parker-Hickman Farmstead
9.3 km
Discover a remarkably preserved 19th-century Ozark farmstead, offering a glimpse into pioneer life along the Buffalo National River.
Ozark Experience - Jasper, Buffalo River area
13.2 km
Your adventure starts here! Discover hiking, camping, and off-roading in the Buffalo River area with Ozark Experience in Jasper, Arkansas.
Arkansas Grand Canyon
18.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Arkansas Grand Canyon, a stunning scenic spot perfect for outdoor adventures and tranquil escapes in the Ozark Mountains.
Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point
20.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and adventurous hikes at Hawksbill Crag, a must-visit scenic gem in the heart of Arkansas's stunning wilderness.
Magnolia Falls
21.9 km
Discover the beauty of Magnolia Falls, a hidden treasure in the Ozark National Forest, offering an easy hike to a stunning waterfall grotto.
Upper Buffalo Wilderness
22.0 km
Discover Arkansas's wild side in the Upper Buffalo Wilderness: rugged trails, historic remnants, and unparalleled solitude await.
Big Creek Cave Falls
25.9 km
Discover a hidden Ozark treasure: hike to a stunning waterfall emerging from a cave at Big Creek Cave Falls near Jasper, Arkansas.
Ozarks
26.0 km
Discover the Ozarks: An ancient highland region offering outdoor adventures, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty across four states.
Glory Hole Falls
26.4 km
Hike to a natural wonder in Arkansas' Ozark National Forest, where a waterfall flows through a hole in a rock bluff.
Buffalo National Wild & Scenic River
26.8 km
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Boone County Heritage Museum
27.2 km
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Kings River Falls Natural Area
28.1 km
Discover the natural beauty of Kings River Falls: hike to a scenic waterfall and swimming hole in the heart of the Ozark Mountains.
Essential places to dine
Low Gap Cafe
13.7 km
Discover culinary delights at Low Gap Cafe in Jasper - where American comfort meets Italian flair and fresh seafood in a charming setting.
Cliff House Inn
18.7 km
Discover breathtaking views and rustic charm at Cliff House Inn – your gateway to the stunning Arkansas Grand Canyon.
Cattleman's Family Restaurant
33.3 km
Discover Cattleman's Family Restaurant: A cozy breakfast spot in Green Forest serving up delicious meals with local charm.
Crossbow Restaurant
36.9 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Crossbow Restaurant in Huntsville - where flavor meets comfort in every dish.
Granny's Kitchen
36.9 km
Discover the heartwarming flavors of Southern cuisine at Granny's Kitchen in Huntsville, Arkansas - where every meal feels like home.
Ozark Cafe
41.0 km
Experience delicious breakfasts and Southern hospitality at Ozark Cafe in Berryville, Arkansas - perfect for families and travelers alike.
Ozone Burger Barn
46.8 km
Experience authentic Southern flavors at Ozone Burger Barn—home of mouthwatering burgers in the heart of Arkansas.
The Highlander
51.3 km
Experience delightful dining at The Highlander in Eureka Springs – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Horseshoe Grill
51.9 km
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Three Bird Cafe
52.1 km
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Pizza Hut
52.5 km
Experience delightful pizza flavors at Pizza Hut in Eureka Springs - perfect for families and travelers seeking comfort food.
Disco's Grill
52.5 km
Discover unique flavors at Disco's Grill in Eureka Springs—where gourmet hamburgers meet vegan delights in a welcoming atmosphere.
McGarity's Restaurant & Saloon ® -- Eureka Springs, AR
52.5 km
Savor authentic Irish flavors in a cozy saloon setting at McGarity's Restaurant in Eureka Springs.
The Rockin' Pig
52.6 km
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Filling Station Restaurant
52.6 km
Experience delightful American breakfast classics at the charming Filling Station Restaurant in Eureka Springs.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging
4.8 km
Discover the beauty of Arkansas at Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging, where adventure and nature come together for an unforgettable experience.
Rivendell Gardens
11.8 km
Explore Rivendell Gardens, a charming produce market in Parthenon, Arkansas, offering fresh local fruits and vegetables in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Crystal Cottage Rocks & Beads
13.2 km
Explore The Crystal Cottage Rocks & Beads for enchanting jewelry and unique natural stones in the heart of Jasper, Arkansas.
Wild Hare Gifts
13.2 km
Explore Wild Hare Gifts in Jasper, Arkansas, for unique, locally crafted souvenirs and delightful treasures that embody the spirit of the Ozarks.
Bubba's Buffalo River Store
13.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Bubba's Buffalo River Store in Jasper, Arkansas, your go-to shop for memorable keepsakes.
Paisley Sister llc
13.4 km
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Buffalo Canoe Manufacturing
15.5 km
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Scenic Point Gift Shop
16.6 km
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Shelby's
27.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Shelby's, your go-to destination for baby clothing, jewelry, home goods, and coffee in Harrison, Arkansas.
Glorie's Gifts and More.
29.8 km
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Mountainairdesignz
31.5 km
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Ozark National Forest
34.3 km
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Witch River
36.4 km
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Hooked for Life Gift Shop
36.9 km
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Dry Creek Homestead Merchantile
40.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Buffalo Outdoor Center
4.9 km
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The Oasis - Harrison's #1 Bar and Grill
24.7 km
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TallGrass Bar and Grill
28.4 km
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Buckets Sports Bar & Grill
29.0 km
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Brew & Cue
33.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Green Forest, Arkansas at Brew & Cue, where great drinks and fun converge.
The Crooked Rooster Bar & Grill
37.3 km
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Missouri Smoke, LLC
37.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of BBQ at Missouri Smoke, LLC in Everton, AR - a true gem for meat lovers seeking smoky satisfaction.
Poncho Goldsteins Irish Pub
41.1 km
Experience the essence of Ireland at Poncho Goldsteins Irish Pub in Berryville; savor Irish cuisine, enjoy live music, and warm hospitality.
Haskel's
46.4 km
Discover Haskel's: A cozy gas station and restaurant in St. Joe, Arkansas, perfect for a hearty meal and convenient pit stop for travelers.
On The Rocks Amphitheater & Bar
49.6 km
Unwind at On The Rocks Amphitheater & Bar, a vibrant venue in Eureka Springs offering live music, craft drinks, and stunning views to enhance your visit.
Craw Billy's Seafood Boil & BBQ
50.6 km
Experience the best of Cajun cuisine at Craw Billy's Seafood Boil & BBQ in St. Joe, AR, where fresh seafood meets southern hospitality.
Tyler Bend Campground
51.2 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Tyler Bend Campground, where adventure meets tranquility along the Buffalo River.
Grinder's Ferry
52.6 km
Discover the beauty of Grinder's Ferry, a picturesque swimming basin in River, Arkansas, perfect for families and nature lovers seeking adventure.
Grub & Pub Club 169
52.8 km
Discover the charm of Grub & Pub Club 169 in Eureka Springs, where great drinks and good company await in a cozy atmosphere.
Legends Saloon
53.3 km
Discover Legends Saloon in Eureka Springs: where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere in the heart of the Ozarks.
