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Yellow Rock Overlook: A Window to the Ozarks

Hike the iconic Yellow Rock Trail in Devil's Den State Park for panoramic views of the Ozark's Lee Creek Valley and historic CCC structures.

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Yellow Rock Overlook, within Devil's Den State Park, offers stunning panoramic views of Lee Creek Valley from atop a bluff 300 feet high. The moderate 2.7-mile Yellow Rock Trail, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, leads to this iconic vista, showcasing unique rock formations and the beauty of the Ozark Mountains.

A brief summary to Yellow Rock Overlook

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be rocky and slippery, especially after rain.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the hike involves a moderate climb.
  • Visit during the fall for the most vibrant colors in the Lee Creek Valley.
  • Be cautious at the Yellow Rock Overlook, as there are no fences or guardrails.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Devil's Den State Park is located near West Fork, Arkansas. From I-540, take exit 53 (West Fork) and travel 17 miles southwest on AR Hwy 170, or take exit 45 (Winslow) and go 7 miles west on AR Hwy 74. Note that trailers over 26 feet long should use exit 53. Once inside the park, follow signs to the Yellow Rock Trailhead, located near Campground A. Parking is available at the trailhead. Parking is free. Limited parking is available.

  • Walking

    From Campground A, the Yellow Rock Trailhead is within walking distance. Follow the signs from the campground to the trailhead. The trail begins with an immediate ascent. No fee is required to access the trail.

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Discover more about Yellow Rock Overlook

The Yellow Rock Overlook is a highlight of Devil's Den State Park, presenting one of the most iconic and photographed views in Arkansas. The 2.7-mile Yellow Rock Trail guides visitors through a landscape sculpted by nature and history. As you embark on the trail, you'll ascend past natural sandstone crevices, bluffs, and shallow caves, offering opportunities for exploration. The trail winds through a narrow gorge, cutting through a massive stone bluff, showcasing exposed rock, mossy boulders, and seasonal waterfalls after heavy rain. The unique geology of the Ozarks is on full display as you hike through the puzzle-like rock formations. Reaching the Yellow Rock Overlook, you're greeted with an unobstructed, panoramic vista of Lee Creek Valley. The valley unfolds beneath you, revealing rolling hills and the winding creek. The overlook provides a stunning display of color, especially during the fall. The trail also reflects the area's history, with cedar glades hinting at the lives of early settlers and the CCC. The CCC, in the 1930s, constructed much of the park, including the trails, cabins, and the dam on Lee Creek. The CCC Overlook pavilion, a small stone structure, stands as the first structure built in the park and offers another vantage point with a plaque detailing the CCC's history. Whether you're drawn to the geological wonders, the historical significance, or the breathtaking views, the Yellow Rock Overlook provides a memorable experience within the natural beauty of Devil's Den State Park.

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