Tyler Bend Overlook Hike

    One of the neatest, short hikes from the Wits End Ranch, is going to a bluff overlooking the Tyler Bend Park and the Buffalo National River. Hike down the driveway and turn right (south) on the road. Follow the road about ¼ mile where it dead ends. On your right is an entrance road into the Buffalo National River Park. Follow this road thru the field a few hundred yards and you will see yellow trail markers on your right and left (about eye level). Take the trail on your left about ¾ mile. This is a mostly level hike and you will come to a clear opening thru some pine trees that looks out over the Buffalo National River and the Tyler Bend Park. There is a small ledge bluff to sit on and take in the view. Enjoy the spectacular view and please be careful on the bluff.


*FYI – The sandwiches at Coursey’s Smoked Meats are great before, during, or after hiking!

Visitor Center/Homestead/Gilbert Hike

Follow the directions to the Tyler Bend Overlook and continue on the trail past the bluff overlook about ½ mile and you will come to a large field and the Hwy. 65 bridge over the Buffalo National River. If you take the trail under the bridge you can go all the way to Gilbert, the ‘Coolest Town in Arkansas’. Gilbert is about 3 miles by trail and goes thru some beautiful woodlands and bluff views overlooking the river. While you’re in Gilbert you might as well check out the General Store and see what the specials are at the Riverside Kitchen.
If you take the trail across the bridge (there is a walkway for hikers) the trail will take you into Tyler Bend Park. Less than a mile after the bridge you will come to a fork. The fork to left will take you up to the Collier Homestead trail. The right fork takes you into the Tyler Bend campground, canoe put in/takeout and the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is a central trail head location and they have a great collection of artifacts, a movie theater showing the history of the Buffalo National River and modern, clean restrooms.