Overview
The Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area is one of the most unusual geological features in any national forest east of the Rockies. The formations are sandstone caps that stand 10 to 30 feet above the forest floor on eroded pedestals, the result of millions of years of differential weathering on the Ozark plateau's sedimentary rock layers. Walking through them, surrounded by balanced boulders and columnar sandstone forms, is an experience that does not match any standard eastern hiking expectation.
The 4.0-mile loop in Ozark-St. Francis National Forest approaches the pedestal formations from the AR-16 trailhead, descends through hardwood forest to Cedar Creek, climbs past the main pedestal formation cluster, and then traces the rim of Cedar Creek Canyon before returning on the upper trail. The 700-foot gain is moderate and spread across the loop.
Spring is the peak season: wildflowers carpet the hollow sections in late March and April, the creek runs well, and the forest is transitioning from winter brown to spring green. Fall is the second season, when the oak and hickory canopy turns gold-orange in late October.
The Route
Miles 0 to 0.8: Descend to Cedar Creek. From the trailhead, the loop descends through mixed oak-hickory forest on a well-worn trail. The grade is moderate downhill. Spring wildflowers appear along the descent in the hollow sections. Cedar Creek is audible before it is visible.
Miles 0.8 to 1.8: Pedestal Rocks cluster. The trail reaches the main concentration of pedestal formations. The largest pedestals are in this section, with caps balanced on columns of varying thickness. The formations are best observed from a slight distance to appreciate their full height against the surrounding forest. Some have collapsed in recent years as the erosion continues; do not approach the pedestals closely or climb on them.
Miles 1.8 to 2.5: Canyon overlook. The trail climbs from the formations to the rim of Cedar Creek Canyon. The overlook provides a view down into the canyon and across to the opposite bluff face. The canyon is approximately 100 feet deep at its most dramatic point. The cliff edge requires caution.
Miles 2.5 to 4.0: Upper loop return. The trail follows the upper forest back to the trailhead through mature oak-hickory forest. This section is drier than the lower hollow and has less dramatic scenery but good late-season foliage.
When to Visit
Spring (late March through May): The best season. Wildflowers in the hollow sections peak in April. The formations are particularly atmospheric with green spring vegetation providing contrast against the orange-tan sandstone.
Fall (October through November): The oak-hickory canopy produces warm fall color in late October. The dry canyon sections are at their most photogenic with leaves on the ground and clear sight lines through the forest.
Summer (June through August): The trail is accessible but the lower sections can be warm in midsummer. The spring wildflowers are gone. Morning visits are most comfortable.
Winter (December through February): The loop is accessible in mild winter conditions. Snow on the pedestal formations creates unusual photography opportunities. Check road conditions on AR-16 before winter trips.
What to Bring
Many hikers on this route carry:
- 1.5-2 liters of water (individual needs vary; Cedar Creek is a potential source with treatment)
- Trekking poles for the canyon rim descent section
- Camera (the formations require multiple angles and distances)
- Wildflower field guide for spring visits
- Rain gear for variable spring conditions
- Insect repellent from April through September
Practical Details
A vault toilet is at the trailhead. No fee as of 2026. The small parking area fits approximately 15 vehicles and can fill on spring and fall weekends.
Dispersed camping is permitted in the general area. No designated campsites at the trailhead. Follow Leave No Trace practices.
Cell service is absent in the AR-16 corridor near Pelsor. Download maps before departure.
Black bears are present in the Ozark highlands. Store food properly at backcountry camps. See the bear canister requirements guide.
Timber rattlesnakes and copperheads inhabit this area. Watch where you step, particularly around rock formations and in tall grass.
Getting There
From Harrison, AR, take US-65 south to AR-16 west. Continue west on AR-16 approximately 28 miles through Lurton toward Pelsor. The Pedestal Rocks trailhead is on the right (north) side of AR-16, signed with a brown USFS recreational site sign. The drive from Harrison takes approximately 45 minutes.
From Russellville, take I-40 west to AR-7 north, then AR-16 west toward Pelsor. The trailhead is on the left (north) side of AR-16 as you approach from the east. The drive from Russellville takes approximately 40 minutes.
Download the USFS Ozark-St. Francis visitor map before your trip. The Bayou Ranger District at fs.usda.gov/osfnf has current conditions and road information.