“There is a hidden message in every waterfall. It says, if you are flexible, falling will not hurt you.”
― Mehmet Murat Ildan
I'm not sure what it is about waterfalls that's so mesmerizing, but I have to say...I love them! There are some great options for witnessing the gushing glory of our crystal clear waters here in Mountain View, and I'm sure you can find one that's just right for your adventure level. Be sure to let me know which ones you visit and what you think!
Note: water "flow" can vary significantly depending on rainfall.
Mirror Lake Waterfall
Mirror Lake is in the Blanchard Springs area and has two great waterfalls that are easily accessible. The largest, and easiest to reach, is Mirror Lake Waterfall. The dam, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, provides a beautiful two-tiered waterfall that’s absolutely stunning. In addition to being a breathtakingly beautiful spot, the lake is also a rainbow trout haven.
Turn into the entrance of Blanchard Springs, continue until you see the turnoff to the right for Mirror Lake. Just after the turn you'll see the waterfall cascading from the lake on your left. There is also a separate handicapped accessible parking area and a wood boardwalk for anyone with mobility concerns.
For a view from the base of the falls and great photo ops, hike down the trail to the Old Mill.
Blanchard Springs Falls
Continue driving (or walking) past Mirror Lake to the end of the drive, where you'll see a circle turnaround and parking area. Stroll along the path past the babbling stream and you'll find a waterfall that gushes from the mountain directly from the spring within the Blanchard Caverns. The stream empties into Mirror Lake just below.
Gunner Pool Waterfall
In the town of Fifty Six, you'll find the Gunner Pool Recreation Area that boasts a gorgeous staircase waterfall that, like many features in the area, was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps by means of a dam that creates a lovely pool in the camping area. This waterfall is easily accessible.
Steele Falls
For more adventurous waterfall chasing, consider Steele Falls, a 2.6 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Mountain View off Green Mountain Rd. This is a family friendly hike that follows an abandoned forest service road to West Livingston creek, crosses the creek and heads up the ravine to the 60 ft. tall waterfall that is fed by three springs. Finding the trailhead is the most difficult part, as it is only distinguishable by a small white sign attached to a tree with a letter A and a metal gate.
North Sylamore Creek Trail
If you're lucky enough to be in the Ozarks in the Spring or after a good rain, the trail between Allison and Blanchard springs is nothing short of magical. You'll have to hike to get to them, but it's worth the effort. These are two of larger waterfalls, though many smaller ones will be seen along the way. These falls are closer to the Allison trailhead, though a creek crossing is required in that direction so check water levels first. Accessing the trailhead at Blanchard, by the larger bathhouse/bathrooms is the easiest, and worth the time spent hiking to see these hidden gems. The flow of these falls depends on rainfall.
Want to travel a bit farther for even more waterfall magic? Try these beauties:
Cornelius Falls, Heber Springs, AR
Bridal Veil Falls, Heber Springs, AR
Hemmed-In Hollow Falls, Compton, AR
Glory Hole Falls, Jefferson Township, AR
Hope you enjoy the magic of the Ozarks and find a waterfall that's just right for you! Be sure to tag us in your pics on Facebook and Insta!