Triple Falls, Arkansas: A Short Hike to a Hidden Buffalo River Waterfall

Triple Falls is a quiet, easy-to-reach waterfall tucked into the Buffalo River area of northern Arkansas. It isn’t a long hike or a big adventure day, but it’s one of those places that rewards a short effort with a surprisingly scenic payoff, especially when water levels are up. When we visited, all three cascades were flowing clearly over the bluff, making it obvious why hikers commonly refer to this spot as Triple Falls.

Getting There and Parking

The drive to the Triple Falls trailhead is short but worth paying attention to. The access road becomes steep as you get closer to the parking area, and low-clearance or two-wheel-drive vehicles may have trouble, especially after rain. All-wheel drive is recommended for anyone planning to drive all the way to the trailhead.

When we visited, we chose not to continue down the final steep section of road. About three-quarters of a mile before the trailhead, there is a small pull-off that can accommodate two or three vehicles. Parking here adds a short road walk, but it felt like the smarter option for us and did not significantly change the overall experience.

The parking area at the trailhead sits near a Boy Scout reservation. While access beyond the parking lot is generally restricted, the trail to Triple Falls is open to the public. Be respectful of posted signs and stay on the established path leading to the falls.

This hike is part of our broader Arkansas hiking and scenic escapes guide, which brings together our favorite trails around the Buffalo National River and beyond.

Why Is It Called Triple Falls?

You may see this waterfall labeled as Double Falls or Twin Falls on some maps, including Google Maps. That naming confusion has been around for years and comes down to water flow rather than location.

Under lower water conditions, one of the three cascades can dry up or become difficult to see, leaving only two visible drops. In those conditions, the falls have historically been referred to as Twin or Double Falls. When water levels are normal or higher, all three cascades are clearly visible, pouring over the bluff into the pool below.

Because three distinct waterfalls are present during typical flow, hikers and trail guides today most commonly refer to this spot as Triple Falls. Our visit confirmed this firsthand, with all three drops flowing clearly.

The Hike to Triple Falls

Once parked, the hike to Triple Falls is short and easy. The trail follows the north side of the creek and stays mostly level, making it accessible for most hikers. The path is informal in places but easy to follow, with the sound of running water guiding the way as you get closer to the falls.

The walk passes through a wooded corridor alongside the creek, offering a calm and shaded approach. There is little elevation change, and no technical obstacles, though the trail can be muddy after rain. As you near the end, the canyon opens slightly and the three cascades come into view, dropping into a clear pool at the base of the bluff.

Because of the short distance and minimal effort, this hike works well as a quick stop rather than a full outing. It is an easy addition to a day spent exploring the Buffalo River area or nearby trails.

Best Time to Visit Triple Falls

The best time to visit Triple Falls is during spring or after periods of steady rain, when water levels are high enough for all three cascades to flow. This is when the waterfall truly lives up to its name and offers the most scenic views.

If you want to see Triple Falls at its best, plan your visit around recent rainfall and avoid extended dry spells. Checking local weather and water conditions before heading out can make the difference between seeing all three drops or only part of the falls.

Is Triple Falls Worth the Trip?

Triple Falls is worth the stop if you are already exploring the Buffalo River area and want an easy, scenic waterfall without committing to a long hike. The short approach and minimal elevation change make it accessible for most visitors, and when water levels are good, seeing all three cascades flowing together is genuinely impressive.

That said, this is not a destination hike on its own. Water flow is seasonal, and during dry periods the falls may not live up to their name. If you time it right, especially in spring or after rain, Triple Falls makes for a rewarding and low-effort addition to a day of hiking or sightseeing in northern Arkansas.

Nearby Adventures in Arkansas

• Goat Bluff Trail – A longer, quieter hike with dramatic views over the Buffalo National River
• Hawksbill Crag (Whitaker Point) – One of the most iconic overlooks in the Ozarks