Best Fall Hikes in the Ozarks
The colors of the fall foliage, the brisk temperatures with warm sun, and the out-of-this-world sunsets. These are just a few of the reasons you should get outside this Fall to explore the beauty of the Ozarks. Whether you’re visiting the Ozarks for the first time, or you’re a local that needs a new trail to explore, or you just want a reminder of where to enjoy the Fall season–we rounded up six of the the best Fall hikes to explore in the Ozarks. The hikes range in difficulty and length, but all are guaranteed to provide a fun adventure with scenic views.
1. LOST VALLEY
Courtesy Arkansas Tourism
This is one of the most gorgeous and popular hikes in all of the Ozarks during the Fall. Lost Valley’s beauty shines year-round, but it’s extra special once Fall starts to show its colors. This trail is an easy going, 2.2 mile out and back hike. The main points of interest on the hike are Eden Falls and Cobb Cave. Eden falls cascades over 50 feet into Clark Creek!
Length: 2.2-Miles Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Trail Head: Lost Valley Rd, Kingston, AR 72742
2. SAM’S THRONE TRAIL
Courtesy Arkansas Tourism
One of the more unique hikes in our area. This hike leads you down along a ridge before crossing a saddle with spectacular views on both sides (the perfect place to check out the changing fall colors). After about 1.5 miles of the hike you have a short rock scramble to a hill top with 360 degree views. This hike is easy except for the short rock scramble at the end of the hike.
Length: 2.9-Mile Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
3. DEVIL'S DEN - YELLOW ROCK TRAIL
Courtesy Parker Dodson
This hike is best in the fall where you can see for miles around of some of the most amazing fall colors. This moderate 3 mile hike leads you up to a hill top where you hike along the edge for most of the remainder of the hike. Amazing views everywhere you look.
Length: 3-Mile Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
4. ALUM COVE TRAIL
The Alum Cove starts off by crossing over the top of a natural bridge and then allows you to see it from below. After you continue around the loop you follow a small creek and where you’ll see many small caves that you can pop in and out of. This hike is perfect for a quick getaway adventure!
Length: 1.2-Mile Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Alum Cove Natural Bridge Recreation Area, Deer, AR 72628
5. OZARK TRAIL (KLEPZIG MILL TO ROCKY FALLS)
Eastern Missouri is a hikers paradise that many are not aware of. This trail leads you from one of the most amazing waterfalls in the area (also a great swimming hole) to some natural shut-ins. Passing through forests and along the river the entire way. Make sure to keep your eye out for the herds of wild horses that reside in the area.
Length: 6-Mile Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
6. RICHLAND CREEK - TWIN FALLS
Courtesy Arkansas Tourism
Richland Creek Wilderness is most known by kayakers, but the hiking in this area is like nowhere else. Twin falls is a moderate to difficult hike where you have multiple water crossings. The trail leads you along the amazing river with large boulders all over, then ends at Twin Falls where you can wade out to this stunning double waterfall.
Length: 5.1 Mile Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult