Hemmed In Hollow Falls via Hemmed In Hollow Trail

After parking at the Hemmed In Hollow Falls Trailhead, follow the path down as it descends into the valley. As you approach one of the vistas, you’ll be able to spot the emerald green waters of the Buffalo River, as well as the bluffs to your east where the waterfall hides.

After reaching the valley floor, follow the path to the east (there are signs pointing to the falls) and if you go during the off-season (fall-early spring), you might be the only ones on the trail. The summer months are usually packed with boaters and day-hiking families.

You’ll pass by several smaller waterfalls as you hike east along the creek, and eventually the path with open up with a vast view of the glistening falls cascading down from way above.

Take some pictures and grab a snack here, as the hike back is a bit challenging as you’ll gain 1200 feet of elevation in 2.5 miles of uphill switchbacks. If you opt to do some exploring, you can scramble up the right side of the falls to a ledge that wraps around the back of the waterfall. A stout tree here provides a decent anchor for rappelling.

Otherwise, you can also continue around to the north side of the falls and head west along the ridge where the rock is crumbly (so don’t freeclimb it – numerous people have had their holds break off and taken nasty falls) but the views from the overlook are on point.

If it's toasty outside, go hike 20 minutes along the creek and follow it to where it flows into the Buffalo National River. Jump in for a swim or wade across to the other side and set up camp.

Note:

• Camping is unfortunately not allowed at the base of the falls
• Beat the crowds, ticks, and the heat by going in the late fall to the early spring