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Details

Distance

5.5 miles

Elevation Gain

500 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jon King

Hike this moderate out-and-back trail featuring cascading waterfalls, massive boulders and sinkholes.

Big Spring Trail is located in Smith Creek Preserve just south of Boxley, Arkansas.  There is a small parking area at the entrance. Detailed maps of the area provided by The Nature Conservancy can be found just past gate.

Walk through the gate and begin your hike with a steady decline down the service road.  You’ll soon reach a fork in the road leading to Elise Falls. Keep straight at the fork and continue down the service road.

Once at the bottom you’ll cross a small footbridge.  There is a small picnic area with a fire ring to the right.  Crossing the creek to the left will lead to Lower Creek Trail and Upper Trail.  For this hike continue straight on Big Spring Trail.

Follow the trail upstream and feel free to explore around along the way!  Several spur trails lead down to the cascading water. Massive boulders line the creek and are peppered along the trail.  Smith Creek Preserve also contains multiple sinkholes. Sinkhole areas are roped off and can be seen on the map. Make sure to keep a safe distance!

The trail ends at Big Spring.  From here simply retrace your steps back to the trailhead.   

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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