Moonshiners Cave: An Ozark Hideaway
Discover the natural beauty and historical intrigue of Moonshiners Cave, a unique hiking destination near Devil's Den State Park in Winslow, Arkansas.
Moonshiners Cave, a hidden gem in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, offers a blend of natural beauty and intriguing history. Located just outside Devil's Den State Park near Winslow, the cave is believed to have been used by early settlers and moonshiners. The "cave" is actually a bluff shelter, distinguished by a stone wall built in 1905 that encloses the opening. Originally, a family used it as a root cellar to store food. However, stories suggest that during Prohibition, it served as a hideout for bootleggers transporting moonshine. The cave exudes a sense of mystery, with echoes of its past resonating through its corridors. The trail to Moonshiners Cave is an adventure in itself. The 0.8-mile round trip is considered moderately challenging due to its rocky terrain and a downhill trek that becomes uphill on the return. The path can be slick, and sturdy shoes are recommended. A seasonal waterfall near the cave adds to the allure, best viewed in the spring or after rainfall.
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful exploration.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail is rocky and can be slippery.
- Visit in the spring or after a good rainfall to see the waterfall flowing.
- Bring a flashlight to explore the cave's interior.
- Be aware that the trail is not well-marked, so pay attention to the path.
A brief summary to Moonshiners Cave
- 10751 AR-74, Winslow, Arkansas, 72959, US
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Driving
From I-49, take the Winslow exit (Exit 45) and head west on Highway 74 (Devil's Den Road) towards Devil's Den State Park. Continue for approximately 4 miles until you see the large Devil's Den State Park sign on the right. Park in the semi-paved parking area directly across the road from the sign. There are no parking fees.
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Walking
From the parking area, walk west (in the same direction you were driving) along Highway 74 for about 50-100 feet. Look for an opening in the woods on the left, resembling a dry creek bed; this is the Moonshiners Cave Trailhead. The trail is not formally marked.
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Public Transport
Take the Ozark Regional Transit bus to the nearest stop in Winslow. From Winslow, arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to cover the remaining 4 miles to Moonshiners Cave. Rideshare costs may vary; check the app for estimated fares. As an alternative, from Fayetteville, AR, take a taxi or rideshare to Devil's Den State Park and then walk or bike to Moonshiners Cave Trail.
