Upper Buffalo River in Jasper, Arkansas
Jasper is the gateway to the Upper Buffalo River, offering spectacular Ozark scenery, clear waters, waterfalls, wildlife, and classic small‑town charm. Use this guide to plan your visit.
Things To Do In Jasper, Arkansas
Below is a list of several places to visit and things to do while exploring the Upper Buffalo River area.
Float Trips & Swimming
- Popular float: Pruitt → Hasty (about 7 miles) for canoeing/kayaking.
- Pruitt Access: A well-known swimming area along the Buffalo River.
Hiking Trails
- Lost Valley Trail (~2.4 mi round trip, easy to moderate): Box canyon, caves, waterfalls, and a bluff shelter.
- Hemmed-in-Hollow (~5 mi, strenuous): Leads to one of the tallest waterfalls between the Rockies and Appalachians.
- Hawksbill Crag (Whitaker Point): Iconic bluff-top viewpoint with sweeping valley vistas.
- Triple Falls (~0.5 mi): Short walk to a beautiful double (often triple) waterfall.
- Round Top Mountain Trail (about 3 mi of loops): 2.4 miles south of Jasper on Hwy 7; great views.
- Sam’s Throne: Short hike to bluff views over Big Creek Valley.
- Sweden Creek Natural Area: Waterfalls, wildflowers, and bluff lines.
Wildlife Viewing
Drive portions of Hwy 43 and Hwy 21 through Boxley Valley for frequent elk sightings, especially at dawn and dusk.
Climbing & Zip‑Lining
- Rock Climbing: Horseshoe Canyon Ranch area features world‑class sandstone climbing.
- Zip‑lining: Adventure options are available in the broader Jasper area.
- Jeep / Off‑Road Tours: Explore rugged Ozark backroads with guided tours.
Scenic Overlooks
- Scenic Point: ~3.6 miles south of Jasper on Hwy 7; on clear days you can see 40+ miles.
- Arkansas Grand Canyon: Famous panoramic views along Hwy 7.
Dining & Local Flavor
- Ozark Café: Historic café on Jasper’s downtown square and a local favorite.
Trailheads & River Access
- Pruitt Trailhead (off Hwy 7): Picnic area, river access, and trail connections.
- Round Top Mountain Trail: 2.4 miles south of Jasper on Hwy 7.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring–Fall: Ideal for hiking, floating, and wildlife viewing.
- Summer: Great for swimming holes like Pruitt; always check water levels.
- June: Don’t miss the local Elk Festival.
Navigation Tips
Even if you use GPS, carry a paper highway or park map. Backroads and unpaved routes can be confusing, and GPS directions may be unreliable in remote areas.
Want more ideas? See additional activities on our Things To Do page.
Questions?
Phone: (501) 208-1248
Email: khcproperties@gmail.com
Service area: Marshall, St Joe, and Jasper, Arkansas