Last updated: April 16, 2022
Thing to Do
Hike the Buffalo River Trail - Boxley to Pruitt
Arkansas Tourism
The Buffalo River Trail (BRT) begins near Whiteley Cemetery in Boxley Valley and winds along the bluffs, gravel bars, and banks that cradle the river. The BRT passes scenic overlooks, old home sites, and wild areas, giving visitors a firsthand look at what best characterizes the Buffalo River.
The BRT is a moderate to strenuous hike. Hiking is most strenuous between Boxley Valley and Erbie, where long, steep bluff lines lead to spectacular views of the river and all the beauty that surrounds it. Downstream of Erbie, the trail gradually gives way to a gentler terrain that is more forgiving to hikers. Trailheads to the BRT are located at the south end of Boxley Valley, Ponca Low Water Bridge, Steel Creek, Kyle's Landing, Erbie, Ozark, and Pruitt.
The BRT is a moderate to strenuous hike. Hiking is most strenuous between Boxley Valley and Erbie, where long, steep bluff lines lead to spectacular views of the river and all the beauty that surrounds it. Downstream of Erbie, the trail gradually gives way to a gentler terrain that is more forgiving to hikers. Trailheads to the BRT are located at the south end of Boxley Valley, Ponca Low Water Bridge, Steel Creek, Kyle's Landing, Erbie, Ozark, and Pruitt.
Details
Activity
Backcountry Hiking
The Buffalo River Trail (BRT) begins near Whiteley Cemetery in Boxley Valley and winds along the bluffs, gravel bars, and banks that cradle the river. The BRT passes scenic overlooks, old home sites, and wild areas, giving visitors a firsthand look at what best characterizes the Buffalo River.
The BRT is a moderate to strenuous hike. Hiking is most strenuous between Boxley Valley and Erbie, where long, steep bluff lines lead to spectacular views of the river and all the beauty that surrounds it. Downstream of Erbie, the trail gradually gives way to a gentler terrain that is more forgiving to hikers.
The BRT is a moderate to strenuous hike. Hiking is most strenuous between Boxley Valley and Erbie, where long, steep bluff lines lead to spectacular views of the river and all the beauty that surrounds it. Downstream of Erbie, the trail gradually gives way to a gentler terrain that is more forgiving to hikers.
Age(s)
5 and Older
Certain parts of this trail can be particularly strenuous due to elevation gain and dangerous cliffs. Please consult a park ranger or concessionaire for information about child-friendly sections of the Buffalo River Trail.
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are not allowed on trails in the Ponca Wilderness at Buffalo National River. Documented service animals are permitted.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Boxley Trailhead
The Boxley Trailhead is located on the southern end of Boxley Valley on Hwy. 21. This is the western terminus of the 37-mile upper section of the Buffalo River Trail. There is no restroom available.
Additional trailheads to the BRT are located at the Ponca Low Water Bridge, Steel Creek, Kyle's Landing, Erbie, Ozark, and Pruitt.
Additional trailheads to the BRT are located at the Ponca Low Water Bridge, Steel Creek, Kyle's Landing, Erbie, Ozark, and Pruitt.
Reservations
No
No reservations or backcountry permits required for this hike.
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
This is a narrow trail that traverses steep, uneven, and rocky terrain. Documented service animals are permitted.