Background

Yellow Rock Overlook: A Window to the Ozarks

Hike to a panoramic vista in Devil's Den State Park, showcasing the beauty of Lee Creek Valley and the Ozark Mountains.

4.9

Hike the Yellow Rock Trail in Devil's Den State Park for panoramic views of Lee Creek Valley from a dramatic bluff. This moderate 2.7-mile loop showcases unique rock formations and Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) history, offering a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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 can be strenuous.
  • Visit in the fall for the most vibrant colors in the valley.
  • Exercise caution at the Yellow Rock Overlook, as there are no fences or guardrails.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach the Yellow Rock Trailhead from Fayetteville, travel south on I-540 to exit 53 (West Fork). Then, go 17 miles southwest on AR Hwy 170. Alternatively, from I-540 take exit 45 (Winslow) and go 7 miles west on AR Hwy 74. Once inside Devil's Den State Park, follow signs to Campground A or the CCC Overlook to find parking for the Yellow Rock Trail. Parking is free. Limited parking is available, especially on weekends, so arrive early.

  • Walking

    From the main camping areas in Devil's Den State Park, follow the signs for the Yellow Rock Trail. The trailheads are located near Campground A and the CCC Overlook. The walk to either trailhead from within the campground is generally short, no more than 0.5 miles, and well-marked.

Unlock the Best of Yellow Rock Overlook

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Yellow Rock Overlook

The Yellow Rock Overlook, accessed via the Yellow Rock Trail in Devil's Den State Park, offers one of the most iconic vistas in the Arkansas Ozarks. This 2.7-mile loop trail, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, ascends 300 feet to a breathtaking bluff overlooking Lee Creek Valley. The trail itself is a journey through fascinating geological features. Hikers will wind through towering sandstone crevices, past mossy boulders, and under overhanging rocks. The layered rock walls showcase the unique geology of the Ozarks, inviting visitors to imagine the landscape's ancient origins. Cedar glades along the trail hint at the area's history, reflecting the impact of early settlers and the CCC. Upon reaching the Yellow Rock Overlook, hikers are rewarded with an unobstructed, panoramic view of Lee Creek Valley. The vista stretches across rolling hills and the winding creek below, offering a stunning display of natural beauty. The overlook is particularly vibrant in the fall when the valley is ablaze with color. For those seeking a shorter, less strenuous route, the overlook can also be accessed from the CCC Scenic Overlook via a mostly flat trail. This option allows visitors of varying abilities to experience the beauty of Yellow Rock. Devil's Den State Park, in which Yellow Rock Overlook is located, was largely constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, and the park retains much of its original character.

Popular Experiences near Yellow Rock Overlook

Popular Hotels near Yellow Rock Overlook

Select Currency