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Cedar Falls Trail (National Recreation Trail)

Petit Jean State Park

Region: Arkansas River Valley
Length: 2 miles round trip [?] * Approximate time for trail completion - 1 1/2 - 2 hours (times will vary for equestrian / hiking)
Difficulty:Moderate
Strenuous
Trail Type: Hiking Trail

The trail begins behind the breezeway at Mather Lodge, a majestic CCC rustic style mountain lodge, and winds down into Cedar Creek Canyon. Massive stone boulders and large trees adorn the trailside. The trail then follows Cedar Creek to 95-foot Cedar Falls, one of the tallest continuously flowing waterfalls in the state. This is a photographer's paradise. (Orange Blazes)

For Information:
Park Superintendent, 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Road, Morrilton, AR, 72110,
(501) 727-5441
www.petitjeanstatepark.com
petitjean@arkansas.com


Trail Visitor Reviews

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Cedar Falls is one of my most favorite places in the world to visit. I have taken some amazing pictures of the falls in every season. My favorite is one of the only times I can remember that the falls have frozen. It is an easy walk to the falls but always take caution. There is always possibility you could see snakes and other creatures as well as wildlife which may spook you if not prepared. Also the auto show it awesome as well as the grave site of petit jean which has a awesome view of the old Arkansas river channel. Ralph Bunton (12/18/2012)


I tried to walk the trail down to the falls,but didn't make it all the way.A little over half way,I could see the falls from were I was at and hear that sweet sound of water flowing.It was beautiful,I thank everyone who made that possible,even nature it's self. Connie Mcpeak (7/24/2012)


9-18-11 While hiking down the mile and half staircase canyon trail to Cedar Falls I encountered very few people today and found myself alone for the rest of my hike! There was a light rain that dampened the ground and produced a pleasant odoriferous fragrance along the trail from the dirt, rocks, and trees, it opened up my lungs, mind, and senses and gave this hike a very special feeling, I went at a very ...slow pace for me absorbing everything I could. When I arrived at the falls the sound of the water landing on the pool below was very relaxing and spiritual as it echoed off the canyon walls. I sat in front of the falls meditating and taking it all in for at least 30 minutes all to myself, I am very thankful and grateful for times and experiences like these of true serenity! On my way back I quickened my pace and when I got back to where the stairs start out of the canyon I got my exercise fix on climbing the 200 or so stairs to the top in 12 minutes, it was a great cardio workout! If you have never hiked before I urge you to try this sometime, for me it is one of the most awesome of experiences I have ever had! Charlie Bullard (9/19/2011)


Just got off the trail. July 20, 2010. Hot. No wind. I needed more water. Actually, I had trouble keeping up with my young children as they were so excited. The CCC made the rocks into steps years ago - not perfect - but easy going down and up the trail. There are a few level spots and places to rest. I was hot, but most people we saw on the trail weren't sweating. The falls at the end were such a reward. They are so pretty and fall from such a great height. It was amazing. It was worth the walk and it wasn't snakey or scary, but remember - it isn't a sidewalk the entire trip. Stuart (7/20/2010)


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Return to Trail Listings
Return to Trail Listings
Trail begins behind Mather Lodge through the breezeway.

Trailhead Location:
Exit No. 108 off I-40 at Morrilton, 9 miles south on Hwy. 9, then 12 miles west on Hwy. 154

GPS Coordinates:
35.117073986710 -92.93882131576

Canyon Trail: 0.02 miles away.
CCC Hike & Bike Trail: 0.17 miles away.
Bear Cave Trail: 0.33 miles away.
Seven Hollows Trail: 0.40 miles away.