Two separate sections along the Buffalo National River: a 37-mile Western Section from Boxley Valley to Pruitt, and a 42.8-mile Eastern Section from Woolum to Dillard's Ferry. The two do not connect. No backcountry permit needed.
“Traverse Buffalo National River on the Buffalo River Trail.”
Plan your Buffalo National River trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Walk-up permit
How to get Buffalo River Trail
Buffalo River Trail is issued by the agency rather than through a booking calendar. Their page has the current process and any dates.
More about Buffalo National RiverPlanning another trip? See the permits we alert on.
Buffalo River Trail permit season
- route distance, about, measured along the route
- 77.3mi
Buffalo River Trail elevation profile
Ponca (west section access) to Maumee Falls WestPonca (west section access)
- Mile
- ≈11.8
- Elevation
- ≈1,065 ft
Buffalo River Trail landmarks
How to get a Buffalo River Trail permit
As of September 2026, Buffalo River Trail in Buffalo National River, Arkansas requires a permit issued via walk-up. Buffalo River Trail rates 5/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. The Buffalo River Trail route covers about 77.3 miles, measured along the route.
- Type
- Thru-Hike
- Location
- AR
How this permit is issued
Get this permit in person at the trailhead or ranger station, or by phone.
Step 1: Check the agency page for the process
This permit is not sold online. Confirm where and when it is issued (and any fee) at the managing agency's website before your trip.
Step 2: Arrive early
Walk-up permits are issued first-come, first-served. Where the agency sets a daily quota, popular trailheads can run out on weekends and holidays.
Step 3: Have backup plans
Popular trailheads fill fast. Know alternate routes or dates.
More on Buffalo River Trail: Live availability activityBuffalo River Trail permit itinerary
How much a Buffalo River Trail permit costs
Buffalo River Trail permit fee: free; no permit needed.
The Buffalo River Trail hike
- Distance
- about 77.3 miles, measured along the route
How hard the Buffalo River Trail hike is
- Physical DemandFitness and endurance required5/5
- Technical SkillClimbing, scrambling, or specialized skills1/5
- NavigationRoute finding and trail clarity1/5
- CommitmentDifficulty of bailing out mid-route4/5
Best for: Experienced hikers with excellent fitness and relevant technical skills.
Recommended experience: Should have completed 10+ mile day hikes with significant elevation gain.
When to hike Buffalo River Trail
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Today
85°
67°
Mon
84°
66°
21%
Tue
87°
64°
Wed
84°
70°
30%
Thu
77°
69°
54%
Fri
68°
58°
51%
Sat
67°
58°
35%
Buffalo River Trail rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Buffalo River Trail.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Buffalo River Trail · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Buffalo River Trail FAQ
How do I get a Buffalo River Trail permit?
Buffalo River Trail is issued directly by the agency. It is issued in person or by phone, so there is no reservation to book and no cancellation to catch. Bring backup dates and check their page for the current process.
When is the best time to visit Buffalo River Trail?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Buffalo River Trail permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Buffalo River Trail permit?
The agency awards this permit directly. Bring backup dates and check the official page for the current process and any closures.
Buffalo River Trail trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
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Questions
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Trip Reports
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Write the First ReportAlternatives to a Buffalo River Trail permit
Where to stay near Buffalo River Trail
- Steel Creek CampgroundBuffalo National River
- Kyles Landing CampgroundBuffalo National River
- Ozark CampgroundBuffalo National River
- All Arkansas campgrounds
Plan the full trip, not just the permit
Build your full itinerary start to finish
Add your dates and get a day-by-day plan: what needs a permit, what gear to bring, and one link to share with your whole group to coordinate every step.
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