8/7/2023 0 Comments Twin falls waterfall arkansasLooking for a more advanced routefinding adventure? After retracing your steps to the trailhead, follow Richland Creek west along narrow use trails to its confluence with Big Devils Fork at mile 5, where the two 20-foot cascades of Twin Falls await. There aren’t any established campsites along this stretch of trail, so plan to look for a good flat spot near a water source around mile 11, near Dry Creek and entertainingly named Lawyer Hollow. This is a section of the Ozark Highlands Trail, so it is usually well-maintained, but some sections may still be more bushwhack than hike-come prepared with brush-ready clothes and sturdy boots. At the east end of the bridge (35.7968, 92.9280), take the trail entrance and head north along Richland Creek. Photo: “Cedar Falls” by jtatum1492 is licensed under CC BY 2.0 The Trail The unofficial trail I’m following, such as it is, ends there, but I continue on into one of the most captivating wilderness areas in this country. The two are opposites: The left branch gushes water like a hydrant, while the right floats down in a delicate, lacy sheet. Reaching a confluence, I splash across the shallow water and clamber uphill a half mile to the a pair of terraced falls. As I follow it, I have to shuffle across craggy rock outcrops and crawl under fallen trees. The creekside path I’m on writhes, drops, climbs, and sometimes disappears entirely while serving up tantalizing glimpses of inviting water and soaring bluffs. The turquoise-green Richland Creek tumbles through boulder chutes and over minifalls flanked by 60-foot limestone cliffs. The swath of spellbinding wilderness is as wild as ever, with few maintained trails or signs. Richland Creek’s lack of notoriety has kept it off the radar of most hikers. But this glowing description, from trail guru Tim Ernst, refers to Arkansas’s little-known Richland Creek Wilderness, an 11,800-acre parcel of turquoise pools, terraced bluffs, and waterfalls nestled within the Ozark National Forest. And I do mean the United States.” That kind of praise usually is heaped upon famous national parks and skyscraping mountain ranges. “One of the most scenic areas in this country. Ready for your next waterfall hunt? Find the rest of our top waterfall hikes here. Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members!
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