Cedar Falls, Petit Jean State Park Travel Guide

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Experience the majesty of a 95-foot waterfall at Cedar Falls, nestled in the historic Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas's first state park.

Cedar Falls, a stunning 95-foot waterfall, is the centerpiece of Petit Jean State Park in Arkansas. It offers both accessible viewing platforms and a moderately challenging trail to its base, showcasing the area's natural beauty and Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) history.

A brief summary to Cedar Falls

Morrilton, Arkansas, 72110, US

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit in the spring or after heavy rainfall for the most impressive waterfall display.
Wear sturdy shoes if hiking the Cedar Falls Trail, as it can be rocky and steep.
Check out the Cedar Falls Overlook for an accessible, panoramic view of the falls.
Explore other attractions in Petit Jean State Park, such as Mather Lodge and Rock House Cave.

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Getting There

Driving

To reach Cedar Falls within Petit Jean State Park, follow AR-154 W from Morrilton. Once inside the park, signs will direct you to Cedar Falls. Park in the designated parking area near Mather Lodge or the Cedar Falls Overlook. Parking is free. From the parking areas, it's a short walk to either the overlook or the trailhead for the hike down to the falls.
Walking

From Mather Lodge, the Cedar Falls Trail begins behind the breezeway. Follow the trail downhill into the canyon. The Cedar Falls Overlook is a short, accessible walk from its designated parking area. No fees are required for accessing the trail or overlook.

Discover more about Cedar Falls

Cedar Falls, nestled within Petit Jean State Park near Morrilton, Arkansas, is one of the state's most impressive waterfalls, cascading 95 feet into a serene pool surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation. The falls are formed by Cedar Creek, which flows off a rocky bluff into Cedar Creek Canyon. Even during drier periods, the falls maintain a flow, making it a reliable spectacle.Visitors can experience Cedar Falls in multiple ways. For an easily accessible view, a wooden boardwalk leads to an overlook, providing stunning panoramic views of the falls without a strenuous hike. For a more immersive experience, the Cedar Falls Trail descends into the canyon, following Cedar Creek to the base of the falls. This 2-mile round trip trail is considered moderately strenuous, with rocky and steep sections.The area around Cedar Falls is rich in history. Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas's first state park, was developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC constructed many of the park's iconic structures, including Mather Lodge, the park's visitor center, trails, and overlooks. Evidence of Native American presence dating back over 1,000 years can be found in the Rock House Cave, which overlooks Cedar Falls from the west side of the canyon.Today, Cedar Falls continues to draw visitors with its natural beauty and historical significance. Whether enjoying the view from the overlook or hiking to the base of the falls, visitors can appreciate the unique geological features, diverse plant life, and the legacy of the CCC's work in preserving this natural area.