Hike the Buffalo River Trail - Woolum to Dillards Ferry

Be sure to come prepared for this long hike, and follow "Leave no Trace" principles!

NPS

The Buffalo River Trail follows along the south side of the river from Woolum to Dillards Ferry for a little more than 42 miles. The trail is moderate/difficult due to the length and many inclines and steep switchbacks. This trail incorporates the newly completed stretch from Griders Ferry to Dillards Ferry. If river levels are low, you will not have any water in side drainage's so you will need to pack in enough water for your hike.

Details

Duration

24-48 Hours

To hike the entire length, multiple days may be necessary. For shorter sections, plan on 45-60 minutes per mile.

Activity

Hiking

The Buffalo River Trail follows along the south side of the river from Woolum to Dillards Ferry for a little more than 42 miles. The trail is moderate/difficult due to the length and many inclines and steep switchbacks. This trail incorporates the newly completed stretch from Griders Ferry to Dillards Ferry. If river levels are low, you will not have any water in side drainage's so you will need to pack in enough water for your hike.

Age(s)

For full length hikes, we suggest all parties come fully prepared and able. This trail is not an accessible trail, and can be steep, narrow, and in poor conditions at times. While there is no age range requirement, we ask you to consider your capabilities and the capabilities of others before attempting this hike.

Pets Allowed

No

Service animals are permitted.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Multiple access points

The Buffalo River Trail follows along the south side of the river from Woolum to Dillards Ferry for a little more than 42 miles. The trail can be accessed from a variety of points between these areas, including the Woolum campground (you must ford river), Tyler bend Road, Griders Ferry landing, Maumee South Road, Spring Creek campground, and the Dillards Ferry landing. 

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

While the trail is open year-round, rain and snow may make sections of this trail impassable. Please consider recent weather and coming weather before attempting this trail.

Time of Day

Any Time

While the trail is open through the day and night, this trail does not have any lighting. Please consider bringing your own light sources, or utilizing this trail during daylight hours for your hikes.

Accessibility Information

This trail can be narrow, steep, and rocky in many places. This is not an ADAM compliant trail. Service animals are permitted.

Pay special attention to the elevation profile chart and the black triangles indicating mileage.

NPS

This map shows many of the important details of this lengthy hike.