Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point, Ozark Mountains Travel Guide

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Hike to Hawksbill Crag for breathtaking panoramic views of the Ozark Mountains, a must-see natural landmark in Arkansas.

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Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point

Hawksbill Crag, also known as Whitaker Point, is a renowned scenic spot in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. The moderate 3-mile round trip hike leads to a dramatic rock outcropping offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, making it a favorite destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point

Co Rd 406, Kingston, Arkansas, 72742, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point.

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking area is limited and fills up quickly.
Wear sturdy hiking boots for the rocky and sometimes slippery trail.
Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
Download offline maps, as cell service is unreliable near the trailhead.
Stay cautious near the bluff edges, as there are steep drop-offs.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Ozark Folk Center State Park

Ozark Mountain Ziplines

Ozark - St. Francis National Forest

Onyx Cave

Christ of the Ozarks

Explore Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Ponca, Arkansas, take Highway 43 South to Highway 21. Turn left onto Highway 21 and drive approximately two miles to the Boxley Bridge crossing the Buffalo River. Turn right onto County Road 5 (Cave Mountain Road), an unpaved gravel road. Continue for about 6 miles. The trailhead will be on your left, with parking available on the right and along the roadside. Be aware that parking is limited and monitored, with tickets issued for obstructing traffic.
Parking

Parking is available at the trailhead, but it is limited. If the designated parking area is full, parking is permitted along the sides of County Road 5, provided that you do not block local traffic. Parking tickets may be issued for illegal parking.

Discover more about Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point

Hawksbill Crag, often referred to as Whitaker Point, is one of the most photographed and iconic natural landmarks in Arkansas. Located in the Ozark National Forest, the crag is a distinctive sandstone rock formation that juts out over the Upper Buffalo Wilderness, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The name 'Hawksbill Crag' comes from the rock's resemblance to a hawk's bill.The trail to Hawksbill Crag, approximately 3 miles round trip, is generally considered a moderate hike. The path winds through a beautiful forest, with a few stream crossings and rocky sections, adding to the adventure. The trail is well-marked, but hikers should wear sturdy boots and watch their footing, especially on the initial descent and near the bluff edges. Along the way, a short side trail leads to Haley Falls, a seasonal waterfall that enhances the hike's appeal.At the end of the trail, hikers are rewarded with stunning views from Hawksbill Crag. The exposed rock extends about 30 feet, hanging over the Lower Fork of Whitaker Creek, approximately 200 feet below. The panoramic vista showcases the rugged beauty of the Ozark Mountains, with vibrant colors in the fall and wildflowers in the spring. Hawksbill Crag is a popular spot, so expect to share the experience with other hikers, especially on weekends.