Neotropical migrants & breeding birds.

Natural Arch Scenic Area is located on Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest. The main attraction is a spectacular sandstone arch that spans nearly 100 feet. An overlook provides visitors with a panoramic view of the arch. Picnic sites, group picnic shelters, playgrounds and hiking trails provide year-round enjoyment. The amphitheater and group picnic shelters may be reserved for special events.

A fee is required Hang tag, fee envelope or sticker. $5/day; $7/3 day; $50 annual. Free use is available with an Interagency or Golden Pass, which must be displayed on the vehicle dash to receive the free discount.

The picnic sites, upper shelter, main overlook, amphitheater, restrooms and most pathways are accessible.

Buffalo Canyon Trail #508 is located at the Natural Arch Scenic Area. Follow Loop trail #510 from the parking area past the overlooks, down the steps, and through Natural Arch. At the fork in the trail, take the right fork. The trail will descend from the cliffline to Spruce Creek. You will cross Spruce Creek and then come to Forest Service Road 5266. Turn left and follow the road to a low water crossing. Less than 100 yards after crossing Cooper Creek, you will come to a road junction. Turn left and follow the road and diamond-shaped trail markers for about a mile. The trail will then leave the road and cross Cooper Creek again. The trail will follow Gulf Fork and Cutoff Branch back to the junction with Natural Arch Loop Trail #510 at the base of the stairs. Follow Trail #510 back to the parking lot.

Natural Arch Loop begins at the Natural Arch parking area and runs along a paved pathway to the base of the arch. The trail passes two scenic overlooks. At the arch, you may climb the steps to the arch and
continue along a dirt pathway that loops around the northwest end of the arch. Buffalo CanyonTrail
#508 intersects at your right. Follow Trail #510 around the cliffline and you will return to the base of
the arch.