Balanced Rock

"The wilderness is healing, a therapy for the soul" - Nicholas Kristof

Difficulty - ✹✹✹ (out of 5)

Scenic Beauty - ✰✰✰✰✰ (out of 5)

Directions - click here

Balanced Rock is probably my favorite place in the Boxley/Ponca area.  It's a unique waterfall with a huge boulder perched on top of a crevice in a runoff that empties into Leatherwood Creek.  I've been there probably 4 or 5 times and there were no other people in the area on any of my trips there.  It's a moderate 1 mile out and back starting from the Ponca low-water bridge on the Buffalo River.  Be advised that this is a bushwhack hike as there is not an established trail to follow.  However, as more people have become aware of this place, you can usually see the footpath of others.

Inside Info - This is an absolute beautiful and peaceful place and I never tire of coming here.  You start at the east end of the Ponca low-water bridge where Leatherwood Creek drains into the Buffalo River.  There is a defined trail going up a hill at this same spot but do not take that trail.  It does not lead to Balanced Rock.  Find the creek and follow it.  Leatherwood Creek is a beautiful small stream with many little waterfalls and you will have to cross it a few times on your way.  Depending on how much rain has been in the area, the water may be ankle or shin deep in places so plan on getting a little wet.  You'll hike until the 2nd large runoff on your left as you walk up the creek.  This is a little tricky but as you face toward the runoff there will be a large, roundish hill on the right side.   If you look closely you will be able to see a footpath up the hill and Balanced rock is about 100 yards past the top of the hill.  This hill can be difficult to climb and after a rain, it can be quite slick and muddy.  This is really the only strenuous part of the hike.  The rock is quite impressive and hopefully you'll be able to see the waterfall flowing and this is a fantastic place to sit, listen to the water gurgling down the slot and just take it all in.   Do not be content to just view the boulder from the bottom but if you have the energy, scramble up the hill on the right side of the boulder and after a lot of rainfall you'll be able to witness many smaller waterfalls behind the rock.  It's truly a magical place after sufficient rainfall.  In fact, the whole Leatherwood creek experience is fantastic.  The trail up the first main runoff has excellent rock formations and if you continue up the creek past Balanced Rock, there are many more things to see and experience.  

Final Word - This is an absolute fantastic bushwhack hike and I highly recommend it.  It is moderate difficulty only due to the hill that must be scaled from the creek to the rock.  Be prepared to get a little wet and you'll have a great time.

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Trailhead Pic 

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