Brushy Grotto
| Rating: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| | Raps:2 - 4, max ↨39ft
Red Tape:No permit required Shuttle:None Vehicle:4WD | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Start: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Parking: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Condition Reports: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Best season: | Spring - Fall
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Regions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
35.5537, -92.7754
35.5526, -92.7760
Search nearby locations
Weather forecast
Waterflow
Introduction[edit]
Brushy Grotto Canyon is one of the most beautiful and scenic canyoning destinations in Arkansas (in my opinion). The canyon features clear flowing water, stair‑step waterfalls, sculpted rock, and a strong sense of remoteness. The highlight of the route is Brushy Grotto Falls, a stunning stair-style waterfall approximately 12 meters high with a 20‑meter-long descent, ending in a large, deep blue pool. The pool is enclosed by semicircular bluff walls, creating a dramatic natural amphitheater. The area is wild, remote, and pristine, several ATV roads exist nearby, but access remains rugged and requires careful planning.
Brushy Grotto Falls is rated as an easy to moderate canyoning route. Beginners can complete this canyon when accompanied and supervised by advanced or intermediate canyoneers. While the rappels are short and mostly straightforward, the route is remote and requires basic rope skills, route finding, and wilderness awareness. Conditions may change rapidly due to rain, flash flooding, or seasonal water flow.
Route Overview Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Total distance: ~4 km Canyon distance: ~1.6 km Total rappels: 3–4 Maximum rappel: 12 m Total vertical descent: ~110 m
Approach[edit]
From the parking area, walk approximately 200 meters to reach a drainage. Enter the drainage and follow it to the left, heading downstream. Continue descending the creek as it gradually narrows and deepens.
Descent[edit]
Rappel 1 (R1) Height: ~4 m Location: ~400 m from drainage entry Description: Small, mostly dry waterfall Notes: Bypassable depending on water level and comfort
Rappel 2 (R2) Height: ~2 m Distance from R1: ~50 m Description: Short stair‑style waterfall Notes: Bypassable, often downclimbed when dry
Rappel 3 (R3) Height: ~3 m Distance from R2: ~150 m Description: Located where the route connects with the main Brushy Grotto Creek Features: Stair‑step waterfall with increased flow
Creek Walk & Pools Continue downstream through the main creek Pass two scenic pools, often clear and swimmable in warm months A prominent bluff appears on canyon left, indicating proximity to the final rappel After approximately 1 km, you will reach the top of Brushy Grotto Falls
Rappel 4 – Brushy Grotto Falls (Main Drop) Type: Slot entry into a stair‑style waterfall Height: ~12 m Length: ~20 m total descent Landing: Large, deep blue pool Description: The signature rappel of the canyon—highly scenic and enclosed by semicircular bluffs Notes: Slippery rock is common; manage rope length carefully to avoid pool hazards
Exit[edit]
From the base of Brushy Grotto Falls, walk downstream 100–200 meters. Begin climbing up the hillside (canyon right). Continue ascending until you reach an ATV road. Follow the ATV road uphill for approximately 1.5 km. The road leads back toward the parking area.
Red tape[edit]
Beta sites[edit]
Trip reports and media[edit]
Background[edit]
Brushy Grotto Falls is an excellent introductory Arkansas canyoning when done with proper leadership. The short rappels, beautiful pools, and dramatic final waterfall make it an ideal route for training new canyoners under experienced supervision, while still offering a rewarding experience for seasoned explorers.