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Little Missouri Falls: A Natural Staircase

Discover the serene beauty of Little Missouri Falls in Arkansas' Ouachita National Forest, a perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, and scenic photography.

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Little Missouri Falls, nestled in the Ouachita National Forest, is a unique cascade waterfall where the Little Missouri River descends in a series of stairstep falls through a scenic gorge. This picturesque spot offers a refreshing escape with opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Arkansas.

A brief summary to Little Missouri Falls

  • 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

  • Visit during the week or off-season to avoid crowds, especially during holiday weekends.
  • Bring water shoes if you plan to explore the creek and swim in the pools.
  • Be prepared for a slow drive on gravel forest roads when approaching the falls.
  • Take a map or mark your route on your phone before you lose cell service in the remote area.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as water flow is greatest after rainfall.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Glenwood, AR, take Arkansas Hwy 84 west. Turn north onto Arkansas Hwy 369 at Langley, AR, and continue for 6 miles. Proceed north for 3 miles on Forest Service Road 73 to Forest Service Road 43. Turn left (northwest) and drive 4 miles to Forest Service Road 25. Turn left (west) for 1/2 mile to Forest Service Road 539. Follow the signs to the Little Missouri Falls parking area. Parking is free. Note that the final approach involves driving on gravel forest roads.

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Discover more about Little Missouri Falls

Little Missouri Falls is a captivating natural attraction located deep within the Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas. Unlike a single, towering waterfall, Little Missouri Falls features a series of cascades that gently descend down a rocky hillside, creating a stunning stairstep effect. The Little Missouri River flows over these rock shelves, forming small pools at each level before continuing its journey. The area surrounding the falls is ideal for a variety of outdoor activities. A short, paved trail leads to observation sites, making the falls easily accessible. The Little Missouri Trail also starts in the parking lot, offering a longer hiking option that stretches 11.7 miles to the Albert Pike Recreation Area. The trailhead to the Eagle Rock Loop (ERL) trail, a 26.8 miles, 2 to 3 day backpacking hike, also starts at the overflow parking area. Visitors can enjoy picnicking in the forested area near the parking lot, with picnic tables and BBQ grills available. The clear, cool waters of the Little Missouri River are also inviting for swimming, especially during the warmer months. The best time to visit Little Missouri Falls is during the winter and spring months when the water flow is at its peak. However, the area is beautiful year-round, with lush greenery in the summer and vibrant foliage in the fall. The falls are easily accessible via an all-weather gravel road, leading to a parking area with restrooms.

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