Tea Kettle Falls Trail

Finding Tea Kettle Falls is the most challenging part of this adventure. The trailhead is located in the McIlroy-Madison County Wildlife Management Area in northwest Arkansas. From Forum, travel 6.5 miles north on Hwy 23 to gravel road #447. It is approximately 13 miles south of Eureka Springs (1.4 miles south of the Hwy 12 junction). There is no sign for gravel road #447 but you should see a large shed on the east side of the road. Head to the bottom of the gravel road. There is a meadow on the right hand side of the road with a small parking area. Hike through the field until it meets the treeline and you will find the trailhead.

You have two options to hike to the falls. First, you can follow the trail on the right hand side of Warm Fork Creek. The trail is not well marked or maintained and requires a bit of bushwhacking. The trail eventually crosses the creek and you follow it to the falls.

The other option is to simply follow the creek downstream instead of using the trail. Personally, I found this route easier and more enjoyable. At approximately 1 mile you’ll see the smaller Reynold’s Falls to the left of the creek. Shortly after Reynold’s Falls, follow the next drainage to the left. Kettle hollow and Tea Kettle Falls is approximately 100 yards up the drainage.

During the spring, the water typically is ankle to knee deep. Bring a sturdy pair of sandals for creek crossings. Also, I suggest using a walking stick if you’re walking the creek. Tea Kettle only runs after a good rain. Early spring with be your best bet to see the falls in full force.