Worthwhile day trip from ROLF to Hawksbill Crag
Boston Mountains in NW Arkansas
In September 2006, my lovely wife, Pauline (kneeling on the crag), and I went to Hawksbill Crag in northwest Arkansas. It is a solid 2 1/2 hours drive but worth every minute. The trip does entail a 6 mile round-trip hike to the rock from the trailhead; but it was a nice day with the temperature in mid-70’s. The crag is a rock that jets out over the junction of the Buffalo River and Whitaker Creek about 800 feet below.
To get there take State Highway 43 south out of Harrison, Ar, to Ponca and then right (west) on Arkansas 74 through Boxley to Cave Mountain Road (on the right). The trailhead is about 8 miles up Cave Mountain Road; parking on the right side and entrance to the trail on the left. The entire hike is on a well marked trail and it is mostly ocverd nicely by large trees; so there is lots of shade.
Click to enlarge
Do not forget to watch for elk in the Boxley valley.
Also, picture of Whitaker Creek valley from late October and a baby black bear.
This bear country. Remain alert – you don’t want to surprise one. Be sure to sign in at the Post on the trailhead for this trek. A take a bottle of water and a camera with you; of course, leave no trash.
During periods of heavy rain, this is also great waterfall country. Also, see Lost Valley; a 3 mile hike round-trip.
It might be a long day trip; but it would be a long 2-day trip from St. Louis or Kansas City; so, if the weather is not right for fishing or floating, give this a try.
