Glory Hole Falls is a unique waterfall located in the Ozark National Forest near the town of Deer, Arkansas and within the Upper Buffalo National River area. Unlike typical waterfalls that cascade over the edge of a cliff, Glory Hole Falls features a stream that has carved a hole through an overhanging rock, creating a waterfall that pours through the opening, or glory hole. 

The hike to Glory Hole Falls is an easy to moderately challenging trail that is approximately 2 miles round trip (in and out). The trail descends through a dense forest, along a generally easy grade, though closer to the falls, the trail does descend more steeply. The area around the falls provides excellent opportunities for photography, picnicking, and simply enjoying the beauty of this hidden gem in Arkansas.

This is a popular area and is one of those must visit locations when you're in the Upper Buffalo National River area. We did the hike late in the evening to beat the crowds.

The Oklahomo Hiker was our guide to this beautiful area!

For More Information

You can find out more about this this hike here: 

• Buffalo National River West Map

• Arkansas Hiking Trails Guidebook

Our Hiking Advice and Hiking Gear Recommendations

• Our Overall Favorite Hiking Gear

• Our Pack Recommendations

• Ten Essentials for Hiking

• Favorite Hiking Gear Under $30

• Recommended Gear on Amazon

Gear we used on this hike:

• Goodr Sunglasses

• Osprey Talon 22 Pack

• REI Flash Air 50 Pack

• Gossamer Gear Shoulder Strap Pockets

• Altra Lone Peak Shoes

• Darn Tough Midweight Hiking Socks

• Deliberate Life Design Hiking Sandals

• Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles

• REI Traverse Trekking Poles

• Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie

• Eddie Bauer HYOH T-Shirt

• EMS Techwick Essentials Sleeveless Tee

• Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts

• Hiker Trash Husbands Trucker Hat

• Energizer LED Headlamp

• NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad

• Nalgene 32-ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottles

• Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter

• Garmin Instinct Watches

• Garmin InReach Explorer+ GPS

Some product links are affiliate links and we earn from qualifying purchases. Others are links through the Amazon Influencer program and as an Amazon Influencer, we earn from qualifying purchases. Still others, we just want you to know about some good gear we enjoy!

Important Hiking Considerations:

• Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions. 

• Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing.

• Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.