Pedestal Rocks and King's Bluff
Summertime In The Valley
Several weeks ago, right after a very good rain, a friend of mine Terri Matthews and I took a drive over to the Pedestal Rocks and Kings Bluff area to see some waterfalls. Terri had never been to this area and was eager to see some of the very interesting geology of this unique spot. Both the Pedestal Rocks and Kings Bluff area are located on Hwy 16 just east of Pelsor. The area is well marked and very easy to find. Each of the loop hikes is approximately 2 miles long, so visiting both areas makes for a nice day hike of 3 to 5 hours, depending on how many times you stop to enjoy the views.
We decided to start by heading down the left side of the Pedestal Rock loop trail, making our way to the arch rock. This part of the Ozarks is peppered by limestone rock sculpted by eons of water erosion. As we walked, we could smell the fresh air that accompanies a nice rain and the sky was a deep blue color with virtually no clouds in sight.
As we ambled along the very nice trail, we came across several small waterfalls, maybe 20 feet high, cascading down the rocks. As this was summertime, we decided not to bushwhack our way down for better views, but stick to the trail as to avoid the ticks and chiggers that are abundant this time of year. We sat by the above waterfall and had a drink break. Then we continued our way along the bluff line towards the pedestal rocks.
As we ambled along the very nice trail, we came across several small waterfalls, maybe 20 feet high, cascading down the rocks. As this was summertime, we decided not to bushwhack our way down for better views, but stick to the trail as to avoid the ticks and chiggers that are abundant this time of year. We sat by the above waterfall and had a drink break. Then we continued our way along the bluff line towards the pedestal rocks.
This park has been developed quite nicely and there are several scenic views along the trail which are worth stopping at, and we did! Each time we would take the opportunity to soak in the tremendous views of natural beauty unspoiled by man. Although there are some railings to protect folks from going over the edge, not all places are protected and you should use some caution when walking with small children. We sure had fun making our way along this bluff line.
Soon we started coming upon the pedestals. These formations are unique to this area. The rock has been eroded and after many long years they have become separated from the main bluff line and stand by themselves. Tall columns of rock with a tabletop on the very top. We did notice some rock climbing anchors on one of them, so it is obvious that they have been climbed in the past. I am not sure you can do that now though. We found the pedestals somewhat hard to see, since the summer vegetation has obscured some of the views.
Soon we started coming upon the pedestals. These formations are unique to this area. The rock has been eroded and after many long years they have become separated from the main bluff line and stand by themselves. Tall columns of rock with a tabletop on the very top. We did notice some rock climbing anchors on one of them, so it is obvious that they have been climbed in the past. I am not sure you can do that now though. We found the pedestals somewhat hard to see, since the summer vegetation has obscured some of the views.
After checking out the pedestal area we decided to continue along the trail, walking over some more rock and then through the woods over to the King's Bluff area. This beautiful spot features a wonderful waterfall somewhere between 60 and 70 feet high. We chose to come here right after a summer rain, so we knew there would be water there. If you decide to visit the area, try and come after a big rain in the springtime or summer, you will enjoy the scene.
Since it was still early in the afternoon, we decided to stop by one of our favorite swimming holes on the way home. This spot has delightful waterfall and provides a nice, clean, clear spot to swim in the heat of the summer. We spent a couple hours here before calling it quits for the day, and headed back into town.
Since it was still early in the afternoon, we decided to stop by one of our favorite swimming holes on the way home. This spot has delightful waterfall and provides a nice, clean, clear spot to swim in the heat of the summer. We spent a couple hours here before calling it quits for the day, and headed back into town.
The Ozark Mountains of Arkansas offers some of the very best scenery in all of North America. It is a nature lovers treasure, with abundant hiking, canoeing and camping opportunities. We have vast areas of public lands to explore, including a national river, two national forests and several wilderness areas within sixty minutes of when I am sitting. I hope you have the opportunity to bring your family and friends to the Ozark Mountains, I am sure you will have a great time.