Thinking of taking a trip to Ponca and wondering what trails you should do? You should really consider the Lost Valley Trail. Pets are not allowed on this hike, but there are some good stops for children. The trailhead is well marked and it has a really well maintained, gravel trail. You will have good views of some really neat caves, waterfalls, and super cool rock structures.
Lost Valley Trail Overview:
Difficulty: Moderate, with strenuous stair climbing to see Cob Cave Hiking Distance: 2.3 miles in and out trail Elevation Gain: 252 feet View Points: Eden Falls, Cob Cave with waterfall in back of it, Natural Rock Bridge, waterfall along trail during wet season, various caves
Getting to the Lost Valley Trail
Getting to the Lost Valley Trail is pretty easy and there are plenty of signs getting to the trail. Lost Valley Trail is located near the Boxley Valley Historic District, off of Highway 43, where you can also spot elk around certain times of year!
Lost Valley Trail View Points
Natural Rock Formations
One of the first things that caught my eye on the Lost Valley Trail was all the natural rock formations. The trail is along the valley of two hills, making for many rocky cliffs and a rock filled creek along the trail. Some of the rocks had holes from erosion over time. It is truly incredible how the rain water running down the hills breaks down the rocks over time.
The First Cave
This cave is the first view point you come to when hiking the Lost Valley Trail. It is has natural stairs that you can climb up and climb through the entire cave and come out on the opposite side. The picture was taken during a dry spell so there was not much water running at the time. The water running out the cave trails off into the creek alongside the trail. You do have to cross water to get to this cave. This is a great spot of kids to explore and play in the water!
Natural Bridge
Next to the first cave is the natural rock bridge. The bridge is tall enough to walk through and is about 50 feet long. You can choose to climb through the cave mentioned above or walk around the cave and through the bridge.
The Second Cave
Later down the trail, there is a second cave. This cave has a large over-hang that you can walk up in. You truly do not realize how big it is until you climb all the way back into it! You can barely see the tiny black speck of my husband standing all the way in the back of this cave.
Eden Falls
Toward the end of the trail, you will find the amazing Eden Falls. It is a gorgeous waterfall flowing into the base of the creek the waterfall created. We hiked this trail during dry season, so there was not a ton of water flow. It was still so neat to see and hangout enjoying the view. There is plenty of big rocks you can sit on near the falls, so grab a seat and enjoy nature’s beauty.
On a warmer day, this would be the perfect place to bring your kids for an afternoon. The bottom of the waterfall would make the perfect spot to play in the water!
Cobb Cave
The last highlight on the trail is the Cobb Cave. You will need a light to be able to see inside. I recommend a head lamp because you will need both hands for balancing. The cave has a stream of water running out that goes out to Eden Falls. The cave is very interesting to explore! Toward the back of the cave, to gets narrower as you go in. Eventually, you will have to crawl to reach the back where there is a waterfall at the back of the cave. Because of the water and moisture inside the cave, be very careful! The rocks are super slippery.
Taking in the scenery on the Lost Valley Trail
Overview
Overall, the Lost Valley trail was one of my favorite hikes near the Buffalo River. It took us about an hour to complete. The waterfalls and caves were really neat to see. If you are taking kids, please be mindful of the drop offs when climbing the stairs. The hike was not too difficulty except the stairs to climb to Cobb Cave. We did the hike on a Sunday afternoon and it was not very crowded, but expect for more people on a warmer Saturday. Make sure to bring a headlamp to explore the cave. You will need both of your hands to balance on the slippery rocks.
