Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cottonwood Falls
Cottonwood Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall located in the Ozark National Forest in Arkansas. It is known for its serene setting and is often surrounded by lush greenery, especially during the spring and summer months.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Cottonwood Falls is short and relatively easy, making it suitable for most visitors. It winds through a forested area and may involve crossing small streams or uneven terrain. The trail is not heavily marked, so visitors should pay attention to their surroundings.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cottonwood Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cottonwood Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Cottonwood Falls due to higher water flow and vibrant greenery. Early summer and fall are also good options for pleasant weather and scenic views.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution on the trail, especially after rain, as it may be slippery. Be mindful of wildlife and avoid venturing too close to the edge of the waterfall. Cell phone service may be limited in the area.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Mammoth Spring hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The ground through the falls loses about 57 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 416 feet above sea level.
Most of the action is upstream: the ground drops about 64 feet in the 500 feet above the pin and flattens beneath the falls. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 416 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 57 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cottonwood Falls is located within the Ozark National Forest. The exact location can be accessed via forest roads, but visitors should be prepared for unpaved and potentially rough conditions. A high-clearance vehicle may be recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but it may be limited and unpaved. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
420 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.422210° N, -91.528382° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven or muddy. Bring insect repellent, especially in warmer months. Check weather conditions before visiting, as heavy rain can make the trail slippery or difficult to navigate.
Where to Stay
Quality Inn West Plains
My Hideaways Serinity Hill
half Mi to State Park! Riverfront Ozarks Retreat
Village Inn of Hardy
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Hardy, Arkansas
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Hardy, Arkansas on SoakingSprings.
Explore Arkansas springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Ozark National Forest offers numerous other waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks. Popular nearby attractions include Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) and Glory Hole Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should also be aware of the possibility of encountering snakes or insects.
Cities near Cottonwood Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Cottonwood Falls
3 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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