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Mirror Lake Waterfall, Crowley S Ridge Travel Guide

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Discover the beauty of Mirror Lake Waterfall in Arkansas' Ozark Mountains: turquoise waters, easy trails, and natural serenity.

Nestled in the Ozark National Forest near Fifty-Six, Arkansas, Mirror Lake Waterfall offers a tranquil escape with refreshing cascades, clear turquoise water, and easy accessibility for all. Fed by Blanchard Springs, the waterfall flows from a dam built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, creating a serene pool perfect for swimming and fishing.

A brief summary to Mirror Lake Waterfall

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mirror Lake Waterfall.

  • Visit during the spring or after rainfall to witness the waterfall at its fullest and most vibrant.
  • Take a dip in the swimming hole at the base of the falls, but enter the water slowly to avoid cold water shock due to the consistently cool temperatures.
  • Explore the accessible 1.3-mile trail around Mirror Lake for various vantage points of the falls, dam, and old mill ruins.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Blanchard Springs Caverns for a unique underground adventure.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Mountain View, Arkansas, take AR-14 West for approximately 12 miles. Turn right (north) at the sign for Blanchard Springs Caverns and follow the signs to Mirror Lake. Parking is available near the spillway, with accessible parking closer to the falls via a boardwalk.

  • Walking

    From the parking area near the spillway, follow the boardwalk down to the accessible parking area. From there, a short trail leads to the base of Mirror Lake Falls. The trail around the lake is a 1.3-mile loop with views of the falls, dam, and old mill ruins.

Discover more about Mirror Lake Waterfall

Mirror Lake Waterfall is a captivating natural attraction located in the Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, near the town of Fifty-Six in the Ozark Mountains of north central Arkansas. This scenic waterfall is formed by a dam constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, creating Mirror Lake and its picturesque cascade. The water, consistently cool at around 58 degrees Fahrenheit, originates from Blanchard Springs, lending a unique turquoise hue to the lake and falls.The area is known for its accessibility, featuring a short, easy trail with paved walkways and boardwalks suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The 1.3-mile loop trail around the lake offers stunning views of the waterfall, the historic dam, and the ruins of an old mill. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the refreshing pool at the base of the falls, fishing for rainbow trout, and exploring the surrounding Ozark National Forest.Nearby attractions include Blanchard Springs Caverns, a stunning cave system with guided tours, and Gunner Pool Recreation Area, featuring another beautiful staircase waterfall. Mirror Lake Waterfall is a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and families seeking a peaceful and scenic outdoor experience.
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