Quail Valley: Rocky Stream and Cliffs

Embark on the Butterfield Hiking Trail for a deep dive into the rugged beauty of the Ozarks, a challenging 14.8-mile (23.8 km) loop that will test your mettle over roughly 8 hours and 19 minutes. You'll traverse varied terrain, from lush forests with streams and small waterfalls to dramatic rock outcrops and bluffs, particularly around Blackburn Creek, offering a true wilderness feel.

This difficult route, with its 1742 feet (531 metres) of elevation gain, requires a free permit obtained from the Devil's Den State Park office before you begin. Spring and fall are considered the best times to hike, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. The trail is a loop, starting and ending in Devil's Den State Park, making logistics straightforward for multi-day trips.

Named after the historic Butterfield Stagecoach, this trail is one of the few looped backpacking options in Arkansas, making it a popular choice for those seeking an overnight or two-day adventure without needing a shuttle. You'll experience unique Ozark "balds"—patches of prairie on sun-bleached slopes—and abundant wildlife, showcasing the region's natural diversity.