According to the National Park Service, there are more than 75 miles of designated equestrian trails. The most extensive horse trail network is in the upper section of the river. Due to the extensive network of trails, horseback riders are advised to purchase a Trails Illustrated® map published by National Geographic from any of the park visitor centers, park concessionaires, area Arkansas Game & Fish Commission offices, or local area businesses to properly identify park approved equestrian trails.
The Park's Wilderness areas are managed as natural areas where man is but only a visitor. The forces of nature determine the trail conditions to a greater degree than in other areas of the national river. Be prepared for swollen streams, washouts, downed trees and trail obstacles that may require dismounting during any time of the year. Many of the trails along the Buffalo River are designated for both hiking and equestrian use. Shared use equestrian trails are marked with a yellow blaze. Please keep horses off trails marked with a white blaze and designated for hiking only. Many of these trails are extremely steep and are not designed or safe for equestrian travel. Each visitor should make decisions and choose practices that will minimize damage to help preserve the natural and cultural landscape of the river.
The following trails are designated horse trails: Bench Trail, Cecil Cove, Old River Trail (ORT), Centerpoint, Chimney Rock, Sneeds Creek, Buffalo River Trail from Woolum to Gilbert only, and the Cow Creek-Cook Hollow Loop Trail (Hathaway Trailhead).
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Mary Jean's Bluff with folks riding from Iowa. Photo by Ted Spears
The Sidewalk ride at Caney Mountain on the Lower Buffalo. Photo by Ted Spears
Elaine and Cuento taking a dip in the River after a warm ride on the Lower Buffalo. Photo by Ted Spears