Hemmed In Hollow Falls is a 209-foot plunge waterfall in Newton County, Arkansas, within Buffalo National River. It drops in a single leap past sandstone bluffs, and the National Park Service calls it the highest waterfall between the Rockies and the Appalachians.
The falls
The creek is small, with measurements placing the falls at 209 feet in one sheer drop, often rounded to nearly 210 feet. The hollow is enclosed on three sides by bluffs about 200 feet high, and the water falls free down the face of one of them. Regional inventories note that taller Arkansas waterfalls may still turn up once additional drops are measured.
Getting there
The usual start is the Compton Trailhead. From Harrison, take Highway 43 south about 18.5 miles to Compton, turn onto the dirt road across from the Compton Post Office and drive 1 mile to the parking area; there is no restroom. Follow the white Hemmed-in-Hollow blazes. The trail extends 2.5 miles each way, dropping nearly 1,400 feet to the bluffs, all of which must be climbed back out. The route is extremely steep and strenuous, requiring 4 to 6 hours. Several trails intersect, making a detailed topographic map essential. The Centerpoint Trailhead, also on Highway 43, is a less strenuous alternative that still takes a full day. A separate approach leads from the Buffalo River during the March to June floating season.
The trail is open year-round at any hour, with no permit or reservation. Buffalo National River charges no entrance fee.
When to go
Flow depends on rain. Peak season occurs in winter, and the creek is usually dry from July to October unless heavy rain has fallen. The waterfall flows actively only after substantial rainfall.
On site
Search-and-rescue responses occur regularly in this area of the park, and hikers should prepare for dehydration and heat risks on the climb out. Carry at least 2 liters of water, salty snacks, a map and a light. The trail is rocky and uneven and not wheelchair accessible. Dogs are not allowed, except service animals, and the hike is not recommended for children under 12. Stay off the bluffs: on November 30, 2014, a 21-year-old fell about 25 feet while climbing near the bluff top and was too injured to walk out, leading to a nighttime rescue.
Nearby
Diamond Falls and Lower Hemmed In Hollow Falls are both about 0.1 miles away, in the same hollow. Fishtrap Falls is about 0.7 miles away and Hideout Hollow Falls is about 2.2 miles away.
Distances are straight-line.