The Buffalo River along a shallow shoal at the base of Roark Bluff at Steel Creek

Float trips/Day Trip

Steel Creek to Kyle's Landing

Photo: National Park Service · Public domain

Miles
8
Duration
4–6 hours
District
Upper
Skill
Beginner–Intermediate

The shortened version of the classic Upper District run, used when water is too low to launch at Ponca. You skip the first two miles but still pass under Roark Bluff and the rest of the postcard bluff line on the way to Kyle's.

Highlights

  • Roark Bluff
  • Steel Creek meadows
  • Big Bluff approach

Before you launch

Check the live USGS gauges and current district recommendations on the float conditions page.