Buffalo River Trail, AR, USGS Hiking Map
The Buffalo River Trail in Arkansas is a beautiful and pristine expanse of land protected by one of the first National acts by a President. A local said you will not see signs, stores, houses, stairs, docks, ramps, or anything else that other rivers are polluted with.
Buy Waterproof Topographical Hiking Maps
To obtain a copy of all 4 maps color laser printed on 11x17 waterproof paper, please contact Charlie at Ouachita Maps. The maps below are at half-resolution, and might print well on letter size paper; Charlie offers the full-res versions for free on his site. The BRT Maps Page has information on an additional two sections yet explored by us.
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BRT map 1 of 4 from Boxley to Ponca
Kayak or Raft - the roughest section of the river. Supplies, guides, and rentals are available in Ponca for casual floaters.
Backpacking - A cool mountain spring exhibits fresh water early on the trail in our June hike. On the OHT in June 2012 drought we never found water above 800ft. Pump and chug!
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BRT map 2 of 4 from Ponca to Kyle's Landing
Kayak or Raft - a stunning light whitewater experience with high canyon walls. Camping at Kyle's Landing is popular.
Backpacking - Get past Camp Orr, but beware the steep hills and find a good flat campsite. We had a bear circling our camp that night slamming a tree trunk, so cook away from camp and hang the food high!
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BRT Map 3 of 4 from Kyle's Landing to Erbie
Kayak or Raft - another stunning section with massive sandstone walls that rock climbers can deep water solo on.
Backpacking - Gentle spots exist between the climbs up and down the valley. Watch for the raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries in June and July.
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BRT map 4 of 4 from Erbie to Pruitt
Kayak or Raft - the easiest section of the float, with a nice outage and campground to welcome you.
Backpacking - enjoy the end of the trail as you descend to the camp. A Ranger Station is here, so if you park your car and get a ride to the start it stays fairly well protected.