Buffalo River Trail: Ponca to Steel Creek

The trailhead for this section is located across the low water bridge at the Ponca Buffalo River Access. Pit toilets are available at both the Ponca and Steel Creek ends of the trail. Parking is available at the Ponca Access.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike this section of the Buffalo River Trail or to enter the Buffalo National River area.

The Buffalo National River has specific regulations regarding pets. Generally, dogs are permitted on trails if they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Always check the most current regulations before bringing your pet.

This trail offers beauty year-round. The 'leaf-off' season (winter) provides spectacular panoramic river views. Spring brings abundant wildflowers, and fall foliage offers vibrant colors. Seasonal waterfalls are best seen during the wet season (November to April).

The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It follows the bluff line above the river, with some relatively level sections. You can expect about a 200-foot elevation change with a cumulative gain of over 600 feet over the 2.2-mile stretch. Some sections involve winding up hills with switchbacks, and you might encounter small, generally dry stream crossings. Trail runners or hiking boots are recommended.

Yes, this section of the Buffalo River Trail is generally suitable for a wide range of hikers, including beginners and families, due to its easy to moderate difficulty. Allow for a leisurely pace to enjoy the scenery.

You'll be treated to stunning natural beauty, including numerous overlooks with panoramic views of the Buffalo River, impressive bluffs, and interesting rock formations. During the wet season, seasonal waterfalls add to the allure, and spring brings abundant wildflowers. The trail winds through a forest, offering opportunities to observe local flora.

During low water conditions, you have the unique option to hike back along the riverbed, which offers a different perspective of the bluffs from below. The area near the Ponca Low Water bridge is also a popular swimming spot, and you can often see canoeists during high water. Keep an eye out for elk in the fields just south of the Ponca Access.

This section is approximately 2.2 to 2.3 miles one way, making it a 4.4-mile round trip if hiked out and back. Most hikers complete it in about 1.5 hours, but allowing up to 2.5 hours for a more leisurely pace with stops is a good idea.

Yes, this section connects to the Steel Creek Campground. For a longer, more strenuous hike with additional elevation changes, you can extend your route to include the Steel Creek Overlook. The route itself follows the Buffalo River Trail for its entirety, and also intersects with the Old River Trail and smaller spurs like the Villines Farm spur.

The trail winds through a forest, providing opportunities to observe various birds and other small animals. Elk are also frequently visible in the fields located just south of the Ponca Access point.