Hike the Buffalo River Trail - Boxley to Pruitt
Buffalo National River
The Buffalo River Trail (BRT) winds along the bluffs and ridgelines on the south side of the river, traversing the Ponca Wilderness past scenic overlooks, old home sites, and cascading creeks. This portion of the BRT is 37 miles long and is a popular thru-hiking destination for backpackers. Day hikers can access the BRT in several locations for shorter out-and-back or point-to-point hikes.
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.
Tags
Backcountry HikingForests and WoodlandsDeciduous ForestsMountainsNight SkyRiver and RiparianScenic ViewsTrailsWaterfallsHomesteadingWildernessbackpackingthru-hikingBuffalo Riverponca wildernesshikingbrtbuffalo river trailcampingupper district hikingBuffalo National Riverbackpacking trails
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Details
Duration Details
Hikers may choose to spend a few hours or a few days on the Buffalo River Trail. At 37 miles long, this is a popular thru-hiking trail is typically done in 3 to 5 days. Day hikers may access the trail from several locations for shorter out-and-back or point-to-point hikes.
Fees Apply
No
Seasons
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day, Night, Dawn, Dusk
Accessibility
This is a narrow trail that traverses steep, uneven, and rocky terrain. Documented service animals are permitted.
Pets
No — Pets are not allowed on trails in the Ponca Wilderness at Buffalo National River. Documented service animals are permitted.
Reservations
No — No reservations or backcountry permits required for this hike.
Age Info
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.
Location
Boxley Trailhead