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Richland Falls and Twin Falls of Richland Creek

Witts Springs, Arkansas

4.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

4.8 miles

Elevation Gain

472 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jon King

Hiking to Richland Falls and Twin Falls follows along a trail to two scenic waterfalls in the Richland Creek Wilderness Area.

The hike to Richland Falls and Twin Falls of Richland creek begins at the Richland Creek Campground. From the entrance of the campground take the road to the right heading to the day use area.  The trailhead is found at the end of the day use area.

The trail immediately begins with a crossing of Falling Water Creek.  You’ll notice a sign for Richland Falls and Twin Falls just beyond the crossing.  Cross where you can and head toward the sign.  Note the trail is faint and is not well maintained.

The trail quickly climbs the bluff line.  As you descend back down you’ll see Richland Creek.  If you happen to lose the trail remember to follow this creek upstream.  

Continue until you’ll reach Big Devil’s Fork Creek.  Keep left at the fork and continue following Richland Creek upstream.  Here the the trail steeply climbs the bluff line.  Again, if you lose the trail descend back toward the creek and follow upstream.  You’ll soon find Richland Falls.  The falls is approximately 8 feet tall and spans the entire creek.  Take a break here or even jump in for a swim if you feel so inclined.

After enjoying Richland Falls, turn back downstream and find a place to cross the creek.  There is a faint trail starting on the opposite (north) side of Richland Creek near the falls.

Continue downstream until you again reach Big Devil’s Fork Creek.  Turn left here and follow the creek upstream.  Twin Falls is just a short distance from the fork.  

Twin Falls is one of Arkansas’ most scenic waterfalls in my opinion and is the gem of the hike.  Make plenty of time here to take pictures and hang out.

When you’ve had your fill, head back downstream until you reach the fork.  Again, find a place to cross Richland Creek.  Once crossed, find the trail and retrace your steps downstream.

I strongly suggest this hike in the winter or early spring.  The trail is much easier to find/follow and will require less bushwhacking.  Furthermore, you may find yourself disappointed in the summertime when water levels are down.

Come prepared with water gear for creek crossings and hike with a buddy if possible.  Remember to never cross moving water if you can’t see the bottom or feel with a hiking stick. 

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* Trail erosion has been reported for this trail. Please be cautious and always use your best judgement. 

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Forest
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife
Swimming Hole

Reviews

The hike was pretty strenuous for us. There were several spots where the trail seemed to disappear and we had to bushwhack our way along the river or cross over to the other side. The hardest part was the climb from the bottom of Twin Falls to the top of the falls. But it was all worth it for one of the best camping sites I've ever stayed at.

Leave No Trace

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

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