Pet-Friendly Trails

Sam’s Throne

Easy

.5 Miles

Overview

A beautiful scenic trail offering nice views of the Big Creek Valley and bluff lines. The area is known for rock climbers. If you decide to rock climb, please use extra caution. The trail to the main overlook is only about a half mile, but there are many trails to wander here.

Directions from Ponca

Head south on HWY 43 for about 1/4 mile and take a left on HWY 74 East. Continue on HWY 74 East for about 14 miles. Turn right HWY 7 South, cross the Little Buffalo River Bridge, and take a left to get back on HWY 74 East. Continue on HWY 74 East for about 10 miles and then turn right on HWY 123 South/HWY 74 East. Once you are on HWy 123 South, you will be heading towards Mt. Judea. Once you pass through Mt. Judea you will take a right onto HWY 123 South and go an additional 4.5 miles. There is a sign on the right side of the road for Sam’s Throne. Follow the gravel road to the parking area. Sam’s Throne is located about 1 hour from Ponca.

 

A hiker taking in sunset at Sam's Throne.

Trip Highlights

The Legend of Sam's Throne

The legend of Sam’s Throne dates all the way back to the early 1800’s. It is said that a buffalo hunter and farmer  named Sam Davis roamed the Arkansas valleys in what is now Newton County, while searching for his sister that he claimed wad been kidnapped by a Native American tribe. Sam would climb this mountain every morning and preach to those who lived in the valley below. Because of this the area became known as Sam’s Throne.

Photographers on the Trail

The rocky overlook at Sam’s Throne and its surrounding ridges offer lots of opportunities for stunning compositions, and it’s western facing point makes it a great option for sunset.

Use Caution

Despite being a very short and easy hike out to the overlook the terrain around the bluff is very uneven and a fall could be fatal. Please use caution while exploring the area and always keep an eye on kids.