Magnolia Falls, Ozark Mountains Travel Guide

4.8 (59)

Discover the serene beauty of Magnolia Falls in Arkansas' Ozark National Forest: a scenic hike to a hidden waterfall and grotto.

Magnolia Falls, nestled in the Upper Buffalo Wilderness near Deer, Arkansas, is a captivating 26-foot waterfall that cascades into a serene grotto. The moderate 2.1-mile roundtrip hike to the falls offers scenic beauty, including a historic stone wall and unique rock formations. It's a rewarding experience for nature lovers seeking a tranquil escape.

A brief summary to Magnolia Falls

Deer, Arkansas, 72628, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Magnolia Falls.

Download an offline map of the area, as cell service can be unreliable near the trailhead.
Visit after rainfall for the most impressive waterfall flow.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven and rocky, especially when descending to the base of the falls.
Be cautious near bluff edges, as there are steep drops.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Magnolia Falls on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Magnolia Falls, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

To reach Magnolia Falls, navigate to Highway 21 between Mossville and Edwards Junction. Approximately 2.5 miles south of Mossville Church, turn west onto County Road 6 (also known as Forest Road 1462). Follow this gravel road for about 0.3 miles to a parking area on the right, across from a 'Wilderness Access' sign. Parking is free along the roadside. Be aware that the road can be muddy after rain. From the parking area, the trailhead is on the right.
Walking

From the parking area, the well-maintained trail begins on what appears to be an old jeep road. Follow the trail for approximately 1 mile until you reach a creek crossing and a fork in the path. Turn left at the fork to take the spur trail leading to Magnolia Falls. Continue along the creek, crossing it once more, until you reach the top of Magnolia Falls. A short scramble downhill will take you to the base of the falls.

Discover more about Magnolia Falls

Magnolia Falls, a captivating natural wonder, is located within the Ozark National Forest, near Deer, Arkansas. This stunning 26-foot waterfall gracefully descends over unique rock formations into a crystal-clear pool, creating a picturesque and serene environment. The falls are part of the Upper Buffalo Wilderness, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.The moderate 2.1-mile roundtrip hike to Magnolia Falls is an adventure in itself. The trail, once an old jeep road, winds through a beautiful forest, presenting hikers with scenic vistas and opportunities to connect with nature. Along the path, you'll discover remnants of early settlers, including a historic stone wall that adds character to the landscape. Keep an eye out for the unique rock formations that resemble Arkansas hoodoos, enhancing the trail's distinct charm.As you approach Magnolia Falls, the soothing sound of rushing water grows louder, building anticipation for the breathtaking sight that awaits. The trail splits near the falls, offering two distinct perspectives. One path leads to the top of the falls, providing a stunning view of the cascading water and the surrounding valley. For a more immersive experience, take the alternate path, which involves a bit of a scramble, down to the base of the falls. Here, you can witness the waterfall's beauty up close and feel the refreshing mist on your face.For those seeking further exploration, Magnolia Falls serves as a gateway to other nearby natural attractions. Woods Boys Falls and Hadlock Cascade are easily accessible from the same trail system, allowing you to extend your adventure and discover more of the Ozark National Forest's hidden gems.