Glory Hole – Magnolia Falls – Paradise Falls
Deer, Arkansas
March 22, 2025
Today I decided to check out three waterfalls near Deer Arkansas. I had the trails to myself the majority of the time, which was great because I was able to enjoy the peace and quiet. I didn’t really see much wildlife except for the herd of elk that was on the side of the road on my way to the trails. If you decide to check out any of these waterfalls, be sure to use your GPS because none of the trails or trail heads are marked and the parking lots are just wide shoulders along the road. I have actually driven passed these several times while checking out other trails in the area and didn’t even realize it.
My first stop was at Glory Hole. I did this one first because it is a very popular trail for people to visit. The trail is not marked but because of its popularity, it is easy to follow. The trail down to the bottom was pretty easy but overall, I would say that this is a moderately hard trail because you will go almost straight down and then there is the almost straight uphill climb to your vehicle. There were several little falls along the path that I ventured over to check out. Once you reach the bottom where the Glory Hole can be seen, the size of the boulders in the area are enormous! There was a system of tree roots that was my ladder in and out of the bottom today. There was also a path around the boulders that I did follow for a bit. All in all, a very nice adventure and I did about 2 ½ miles while here.
My next stop which was just about 5 minutes down the road was Magnolia Falls. At this location, I did see another vehicle but didn’t encounter anyone along the path until I came back to my vehicle and other hikers were starting out on their journey. This trail was really pretty easy, but again, not marked. Along the trail you will see a line of boulders that just suddenly appear and you will follow them for awhile and then they will be gone. You will come to a small creek that has a trail continuing forward or you can turn left. Turn left and follow the path to the falls. Using a tree root system again, I was able to climb to the bottom of the falls and explore the area closer. The clefts and rock formation are very unique. This trail was pretty easy but there is a downward climb and then the climb back up but it was moderately easy and I did almost 2 ½ miles here as well.
The final stop of the day was Paradise Falls which was only about another 5 minutes down the road. This trail was not marked either but is well traveled so the trail is visible. At times, I felt like was I doing a little bushwacking. It is not well maintained and the trail itself will disappear at times but you will be able to find your way. I had this trail to myself until I started back and about halfway, I did encounter a few other hikers out enjoying the day. This trail I would rate as a moderately hard trail as there can be a lot of climbing involved depending on how close you want to get to the falls along the trail and at the end where the actual Paradise Falls are. This is a shorter trail but I was able to get a little over 2 miles here.
Overall, it was a very nice day and I did get a workout. There are still more waterfalls in the area that I hope to one day go back and visit.
There are no facilities near these locations so plan accordingly. I didn’t have reception either while in the area but I did download trail maps and my driving route prior to going so you might keep that in mind if you want to visit as well.
There were a few areas along each of the paths where I did have to cross water but I went between rain falls and was able to avoid getting my shoes wet but if you go during the rainy season there will be mud and water crossings involved.
You can enjoy more of my photos from the day and a few videos on my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571357578836