Pam’s Grotto is one of those spots that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret paradise.
All Arkansans know that there is something special about chasing waterfalls, especially when the hike to get there is just as rewarding as the destination.
If you’re looking for a short, but challenging hike that leads to a stunning waterfall, Pam’s Grotto is one you should consider!
Who is the “we” that I mention in this post? We are Emily and Karen, a mother and daughter duo from Arkansas who spend time traveling our state finding the best hikes, restaurants, stays, and shops. We are often with Emily’s husband, Daniel, and their young daughter, Lyla. Join in the fun on our Instagram: Somewhere in Arkansas!
Pam’s Grotto Difficulty
Although I’ve included Pam’s Grotto on our list of easy waterfall hikes in Arkansas I do want you to know that I almost didn’t include it. It is the most difficult hike on that list. Having just done it again I would say that it more of a moderate hike than easy.
It’s not a long hike – only about half a mile – but the incline and loose rocks keep it interesting. I’d recommend good hiking shoes and maybe a trekking pole if you’re not a fan of uneven terrain.
There are a couple of spots where the trail is right on the edge of a drop off which makes this, in our opinion, not a good hike for younger children.
And here is our last note about safety and difficulty…just before you arrive at the waterfall the trail goes sharply down a rocky hill. In our opinion it actually looks more difficult than it is but do be aware that it could be tricky for anyone with balance issues.
Where is it Located?
The trailhead is located right on Highway 123 just near the Haw Creek Campground.
The trailhead isn’t the most obvious…there’s no big sign announcing your adventure…but that’s part of what makes it fun. Haw Creek Campground DOES have a noticeable sign which is helpful as a landmark.
Across the road from the Pam’s Grotto trailhead is a place for cars to pull onto a flat area between the highway and Haw Creek. You will be parking right off the side of the road.
After parking you will cross the highway (be careful as vehicles can come suddenly around the curves!). Once you cross the trail is easy to spot. You will go up the embankment and from there you will take a well marked path that quickly and steeply pulls you into the forest.
About the Hike
As you climb, you’ll be surrounded by tall trees, moss-covered boulders, HUGE rock formations, and the occasional scurry of wildlife in the underbrush.
If you time the hike to Pam’s Grotto right, preferably after a good rain, you’ll start to hear the rush of water before you see it.
Here is a post with tips for waterfall hiking in Arkansas!
The trail is well-trodden. There were no times when we weren’t sure where it led.
As you near the waterfall and head down the steep slope at the end you will make your way around a huge boulder and then…just like that..you are there…and it is stunning!
Pam’s Grotto isn’t the biggest waterfall in Arkansas, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty. Water tumbles down from the a V in the ledge above into a shallow pool, framed by towering bluffs and lush greenery.
The overhanging rock creates a little natural alcove where you can sit behind the fall, take in the scene, and feel the mist on your face.
One of my favorite parts of this spot is the solitude.
Unlike some of the more popular trails in the state, Pam’s Grotto often feels like your own private escape. You can take your time soaking it all in, snapping photos, or just sitting in the cool shade listening to the sound of the water.
The trek back out is easier than the way in. Once you scramble up the steep incline out of the grotto it will be mostly downhill the rest of the way.
Watch out for those loose rocks and the spots around the corners where the trail is tight on the edge of a cliff though!
Before heading out, I’d recommend taking a short detour to nearby Haw Creek Falls if you have time. It’s another beautiful spot that’s well worth a visit.
In fact you can easily visit Pam’s Grotto, Haw Creek Falls, and Pack Rat Falls all in one day as they are all short hikes and very close together.
If you are looking for a short, challenging and very rewarding hike, Pam’s Grotto should definitely be on your radar. It’s proof that sometimes the best adventures come in small, tucked-away packages.
Thanks so much for stopping by!
