- Miles
- 50.3
- Duration
- 3–4 days
- District
- Upper
- Skill
- Intermediate
A long-weekend trip that traces the entire Upper District and rolls into the start of the Middle. The Narrows near Woolum are the dramatic finish — a slot of vertical limestone that feels like the river is squeezing through a doorway.
Highlights
- •The Narrows at Woolum
- •Big Bluff
- •Multi-day gravel bar camping
Current conditions · Upper district
Too lowLow flow (53 cfs) — expect lots of dragging through shoals.
Heads up: water is on the low side for this run. Expect dragging in shallow shoals — consider a shorter trip or wait for rain.
Source: Buffalo River at Ponca · all gauges
River alerts
Get a text or email when the Ponca section drops below or above floatable levels
No spam, no newsletter. One short message when the river hits go, plus a high-water warning if it spikes.
Outfitters that service this float
Local outfitters offering rentals and shuttles for the Upper District.
- Buffalo Outdoor Center
Canoe, kayak & raft rentals, shuttles, cabins, guided trips
4699 AR-43, Ponca, AR 72670
- Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging
Canoe & kayak rentals, shuttles, lodging
AR-43, Ponca, AR 72670
- Buffalo River Canoes
Canoe & kayak rentals, shuttles, riverside camping
HC 70 Box 136 B, Jasper, AR 72641
- Rio Buffalo Outfitter
Canoe, kayak & raft rentals, shuttles
10039 AR-74 W, Jasper, AR 72641
