Slate Falls

From the deer camp on Poteau Mountain Road, follow the old logging road that runs out the back of the camp for nearly two miles. Leave the road at the top of the drainage and bushwhack down the hillside to the falls. The last 200 yards are a steep, boulder-covered slope. There is no developed trail in the Poteau Mountain Wilderness.

The Forest Service lists approximately 4.6 miles round trip. A 2005 geocache description says a five-mile round trip. The two figures differ; use the lower one only as a rough guide.

Old road, then an unmarked, sometimes near-vertical, boulder-strewn descent. Poison ivy and briars were reported. Vehicles are prohibited inside the wilderness.

Where to start

Parking is at or near a deer camp area on Poteau Mountain Road, off Highway 71 between Waldron and Mansfield. A 2013 visitor said the road was rough and a typical car would not get far. Exact legal parking is not confirmed.

Timing & water

The falls were dry in 2013 and run only after rain. Check the Forest Service for current road and wilderness conditions.

Before you go

No fee or permit is stated in the sources read.