Sometimes it’s fun to head off the beaten path and Moonshiners Cave Trail delivers. This trail is a short .8 mile (roundtrip) jaunt so close to Devil’s Den State Park it is sometimes mistaken for one of the state park’s trails. It’s a little tough to find but the payout is fun: a cool cave and a waterfall.

Moonshiners once worked in secret to create alcohol when Prohibition was enacted from 1920 to 1933. They needed locations that were difficult to find and this cave certainly fits the description. Down a steep hillside and hidden in the woods, you’ll find a bricked up cave that would have kept the wind and water away. Next to the cave, nearly overhanging it, is a waterfall that runs from a trickle to a true waterfall depending on the season.

You approach the cave on AR-74, the Winslow exit off I-49, or by driving through Devil’s Den State Park. Either way, park at the gravel area across the highway from the large Devil’s Den State Park entry sign. Walk along the roadside towards the park about 50 feet and look for a trail to your left. There is no trailhead sign and no trail markings on this trail. You’ll see an opening in the trees. This is an old ATV road. The road quickly turns into a rocky gully which can be difficult to walk (or ride) through. There is a small path on the right side of the gulley you can also follow. Descend down the hill a quarter mile. You will come to a crosstrail. Turn left and continue on the trail. Less than a quarter mile later, you will see an opening in the trees on your right. The area here is flattened out and looks more used than the surrounding woods. You might even hear the trickle of the waterfall. Walk towards the edge and you’ll find a rocky path down that quickly circles to the cave. You can’t see the cave or the waterfall from the trail above. Remember, it’s a well-hidden secret.

If you miss the cave, the trail continues to a bluff on your left. This is the signal you’ve hiked too far. Turn around and walk back to find the small clearing. The return hike is short but steep and it can be wet. Remember to turn right when you reach the trail junction and head uphill to the highway. Fortunately, even though the cave is a little tricky to find, you’re never far from the highway, so don’t worry about getting lost.

Moonshiners Cave Trail makes a great addition to a day of hiking at Devil’s Den State Park. If you stop at the Visitor’s Center and ask about the trail, the park ranger can give you a handout with directions if needed. If you’re simply looking for a short hike with a nice reward, Moonshiners Cave is a fun one to hike. 


Best Spot for a Rest - Upon arrival at Moonshiners Cave. You can find a place to sit inside the cave or on the rocks outside and take in the waterfall. 

Best Spot For Pictures - The waterfall at the cave is lovely if there is enough water. 

Bike requirements - This trail is mostly suited for hikers. 

Clothing Requirements -  Sturdy shoes, insect spray.

Drive Distance from Central Arkansas/NWA/NEA - 26 miles south of Fayetteville and 43 miles north of Fort Smith by I-49 and AR 74 W.  

Elevation Change Over the Trail - 200 feet but it is steep. 

Family Friendly - Older children will definitely enjoy the cave and waterfall. Younger kids might struggle with the larger rocks and steep incline. 

Flora and Fauna Expectations - Squirrels, birds, deer, pine, hardwood, ferns and occasional wildflowers. Also expect ticks, chiggers and mosquitoes. 

Footwear Requirements - Sturdy shoes or hiking boots that will do well over rocky terrain and occasional mud and water crossings. 

Nearby Food/Drink Options - Devil’s Den State Park runs a seasonal cafe you can check out if you visit during late spring into summer. The nearest gas station is in Winslow 11 miles away or  West Fork 15 miles away. There are a few local restaurants if you head south on I-49 to Mountainburg. If you’re driving north, look for several fast food stops at the junction of I-49 and Hwy 265. Otherwise, head into Fayetteville or Fort Smith for a broad selection.  

Peak Times - This is a lesser known trail and probably won’t be crowded no matter when you hike. However, arrive early if you want to be alone. 

Trail Conditions - A steep dirt path that follows an old ATV trail/gulley. It is quite rocky in places and can be a little muddy if it has rained. Wear waterproof shoes if you want to cross the rocks at the waterfall.   

Tree Cover - The trail is deeply wooded. 

Water Crossings - While you don’t have to cross water to get to the cave, if it has rained, the gulley you follow down the hill could have water in it. When you arrive at the cave, the rocks might be wet and slippery from the waterfall.   

What food to bring/drink - Water, snack or lunch if desired.


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