Lost Valley Hike

Students will hike about 1 ½ miles round trip along the Eden Falls Trail to learn about the importance of natural surroundings and the role of human beings in the protection of the outdoors.

Water affects many things. It shapes the face of the Buffalo River Valley, carving canyons, hollows, and rock shelters.

The Buffalo National River trail crew repairs Eden Falls trail near the natural bridge formation. The trail was severely damaged during spring flooding in The trail follows along Clark Creek. Usually during our hike, the creek is only a trickle or disappears altogether. In 2011, the creek became a torrent strong enough to wash out the footbridge and some campsites.

Water isn’t the only force changing the landscape. What happened to these trees?

Trees, ground vegetation, even last year’s fallen leaves help to clean and filter water run-off. By holding soil in place, they prevent erosion.

We share the limited supply of water in the Ozarks with plants, animals and our neighbors. We also share the responsibility to ensure that our wells, springs, and tributaries are clean, and our trash properly disposed of. It means good health for us and the environment.