Traveling east on 16/21 out of Fallsville, AR in the Ozarks-- and after passing the nondescript turn-off a couple of times, our family finally found the entrance, if you will, to Glory Hole falls. Being from Southern California, we all got a huge kick out of how green and wet this area is.
As we walked down the 2 mile trail to the falls, there were several places where huge puddles all but blocked the way, forcing us to sidestep through the underbrush in a few spots. With plenty of copperheads dead on the road on the way in, we were mindful to tread lightly, and watch where we put our feet.
The trail to the falls is mostly downhill, under a canopy of hardwood trees. The usual multitude of flying and crawling insects, along with songbirds, turtles, Spring peepers, and the occasional snake made the hike even more beautiful.
After a couple of crossings of Dismal creek, we came to the place where it had drilled right through the rock and down into the cavern below. Hey somewhat slippery rock scramble to the right takes you down to where the water is falling through the hole. Many small green plants, and orange fungus mushrooms are growing all over the place. The spot is very desolate, unique, and beautiful.
Why the water was only a trickle when we were there, I have read that after a good rain storm The falls are quite a sight. Now I can't imagine I will make it back here in my lifetime, it is also quite beautiful in the winter when the waterfall freezes through the hole.
We brought three young kids on this hike, and while they are outdoorsy, there were a few places where we had to carry them... especially on the way back, when it was pretty much all uphill.
While not a difficult hike, if you are unaccustomed to the heat, humidity, and frequent changes in the weather, best bet is to take your time, and take extra water. And don't forget a good camera, to capture one of the more unique things I've ever seen in nature. read more