Hemmed In Hollow Falls Trail: A Hard Hike to Arkansas’ Tallest Waterfall

Tucked into a narrow box canyon in the Ponca Wilderness near the Buffalo National River, Hemmed In Hollow Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Arkansas. The 200-plus-foot drop spills over a sheer bluff into a shaded amphitheater below, creating a setting that feels remote and rugged despite being reached by a maintained hiking trail.

The Hemmed In Hollow Falls Trail is the most direct and commonly used route to the base of the waterfall. While the mileage is modest, the hike is steep and demanding, especially on the return climb out of the canyon. Several other approaches reach the falls, including longer routes from the Centerpoint Trail and a short access trail for paddlers on the Buffalo River. However, this guide focuses on the Hemmed In Hollow Trail, which we hiked ourselves.

Hemmed In Hollow Falls Trail Overview

The trail is an out-and-back hike that drops from the uplands of the Ponca Wilderness into a narrow box canyon near the Buffalo National River. The distance is moderate, but the terrain and elevation change make this a demanding hike.

The route is well maintained, but consistently steep, with uneven footing. Because of the steepness of the terrain, hikers should plan for a slower pace than usual.

This is not a casual stroll to a viewpoint. It’s a hike best suited for those comfortable with sustained elevation change and backcountry-style trails. This is especially true when conditions are wet or temperatures are warm.

Hiking to Hemmed In Hollow Falls

From the Hemmed In Hollow Trailhead, the route drops quickly off the ridge and begins descending into the forested canyon below. The trail is easy to follow from the start, but it does not ease you in. Within the first stretch, the grade becomes steady and sustained, setting the tone for the rest of the hike.

As the trail works its way downhill, it follows a series of long switchbacks through hardwood forest. Footing is generally solid, though exposed roots and loose rocks can cause a trip, especially in the steeper sections.

Farther down, the canyon begins to narrow, and the sense of elevation loss becomes more noticeable. The sound of water may be faint or absent depending on conditions and that’s when the scale of the surrounding bluff starts to come into view. The final approach leads directly into the box canyon, where the walls rise sharply and the trail ends at the base of the falls.

Hemmed In Hollow Falls

The towering waterfall drops over a sheer bluff into a narrow amphitheater at the back of the canyon. The setting feels enclosed and dramatic. Standing at the base, the scale of the cliff becomes immediately apparent. The rock walls rise almost straight up, dwarfing everything below. The height of the waterfall gives those standing at its base a sense of awe that photos rarely capture.

The base of the waterfall is a natural place to slow down and spend time. The canyon floor is relatively open, with room to sit, explore, and take in the surroundings. Looking up from below emphasizes just how far the water travels before reaching the ground. Even when the flow is light, the vertical drop and exposed bluff is impressive.

Water Flow and Seasonal Conditions

Water flow at Hemmed In Hollow Falls varies widely throughout the year and is closely tied to recent rainfall. During wet periods, especially in spring, the waterfall can pour heavily over the bluff. After extended dry stretches, the flow may be reduced to a thin ribbon or a light trickle.

Visitors hoping to see the falls at peak flow should plan their hike shortly after significant rain. Those visiting later in a dryer season will find quieter conditions and fewer crowds, but the canyon is always dramatic. Both experiences have their appeal and knowing what to expect ahead of time helps set the right expectations.

Other Ways to Reach Hemmed In Hollow Falls

While the Hemmed In Hollow Falls Trail is the most direct and commonly used hiking route, there are a few other ways to reach the waterfall. These options are worth knowing about, especially for hikers planning longer days or paddlers traveling down the river.

Centerpoint Trail Approach
Hemmed In Hollow Falls can also be reached from the Centerpoint Trailhead, which accesses a broader network of trails in the area. This option results in a much longer hike of roughly 10.4 miles round trip. It is typically chosen by experienced hikers looking to combine destinations. Because the Centerpoint Trail also provides access to Goat Bluff, some hikers pair the two destinations into a single outing. This route is best suited for those comfortable with distance, elevation change, and a full day on the trail.

Sneeds Creek Loop
Another option is the Sneeds Creek Loop, which reaches the falls as part of a longer circuit. This route is less direct and more demanding, with creek crossings and variable trail conditions. It’s loop generally considered an option for seasoned hikers rather than first-time visitors to the area.

Buffalo River Access for Paddlers
For those traveling by canoe or kayak, Hemmed In Hollow Falls can be reached from the river near Horseshoe Bend. From the river, a short access trail leads inland to the base of the falls. The walk from the river is less than a mile, depending on where you land and current water levels. This approach is popular with paddlers and offers a completely different way to experience the falls.

These alternate routes add flexibility, but they also come with additional planning considerations. Most first-time visitors will find the Hemmed In Hollow Falls Trail to be the most straightforward hiking option.

Map Description

This custom Google Map highlights key trailheads and access points in the Ponca Wilderness and Buffalo National River area. It includes multiple routes to Hemmed In Hollow Falls, along with nearby hikes such as Goat Bluff Trail, Lost Valley, Glory Hole and other area highlights. Use this map to understand how these trail systems relate to one another and to plan hikes or multi-stop outings in the central Buffalo River corridor.

Trail Conditions and Safety Notes

Trail conditions on the Hemmed In Hollow Falls Trail can vary throughout the year and have a direct impact on how challenging the hike feels. While the route is well defined, the terrain is demanding in places and deserves careful footing, especially when conditions are wet. Hiking poles are a good option for additional stability for some hikers.

Rocks near the base of the falls can be slick, even when the water flow is light. Shaded areas tend to stay damp longer, and smooth rock surfaces can be surprisingly slippery. During the fall season and after rain, wet leaves add another layer of risk and can cause unexpected slips, particularly in the canyon area.

The return hike is where most hikers feel the effort of this trail. Climbing back out of the canyon involves sustained elevation gain. Taking a steady pace, staying hydrated, and allowing extra time for the climb back make the hike back out more manageable.

Because of the steep terrain and exposure, this trail is best tackled with sturdy footwear. Shoes with slick soles and sandals are not good options for this hike. Starting earlier in the day helps avoid heat and gives you more flexibility to rest at the falls without feeling rushed on the return.

Getting There and Parking

The Hemmed In Hollow Falls Trailhead is located near the Compton area within the Ponca Wilderness of the Buffalo National River region. Access is via gravel roads, which are typically passable for most vehicles in dry conditions but can become rough or muddy after rain. We drove slowly and did not have any problems traveling this road in our Sprinter van, Alice.

Parking is limited at the trailhead and fills quickly during peak seasons, especially in spring when waterfall conditions are best. There are no restrooms, water, or other services at the trailhead, so plan accordingly before arriving. Cell service is unreliable, making it a good idea to download maps ahead of time.

Arriving early in the day improves your chances of finding parking and allows more flexibility for breaks at the falls without feeling rushed on the return hike.

Is Hemmed In Hollow Falls Worth the Hike?

Hemmed In Hollow Falls is a rewarding destination for hikers who enjoy challenging terrain and dramatic landscapes. Hikers looking for a casual stroll or a quick viewpoint may feel like it’s more work than expected. The trail demands effort, particularly on the climb back out, but the payoff at the base of the falls feels well-earned.

For those willing to put in the effort, it delivers one of the most memorable waterfall settings in the state.

Whether paired with other Buffalo River hikes or tackled on its own, Hemmed In Hollow Falls stands out as a classic Arkansas hike that leaves a lasting impression.

Nearby Adventures in Arkansas

If you’re exploring the Buffalo River region, these nearby hikes are worth adding to your itinerary:

• Arkansas Page – A list of many of the hikes we have done in the Arkansas over the years.
• Hawksbill Crag (Whitaker Point) – One of the most iconic overlooks in the Ozarks