Some places along the Buffalo River stop you in your tracks the first time you see them. Devil’s Tea Table is one of those places.
Perched high above the river, this massive slab of limestone juts out above the bluff like a stone table set for giants. It’s dramatic, exposed, and unmistakably Ozark — the kind of spot that makes you slow down, take a breath, and appreciate just how wild this river corridor still is.
This is an out and back hike that delivers some of the most iconic views on the Buffalo National River.
📍 Trailhead & Location
- Trailhead GPS Coordinates: 36.097528, -92.522869
- Area: Buffalo National River
- Trail Type: Out-and-back
- Distance: Approximately 5.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
The trail begins at a small, informal trailhead at the dead end of Cozahome Road (Marion County 650 on maps). Parking is limited, so be courteous and make sure your vehicle is fully off the roadway before starting your hike.
🥾 The Hike
From the trailhead, the path heads into the forest along the border of the National Park Service boundary with private land. There is an old road trace that looks inviting for easier walking. However, the road trace is on private property, so avoid the temptation to take a shortcut for an easier walk. This is a classic Ozark bushwhack hike — I had my phone with GPS open the entire hike. You’ll encounter exposed roots, loose rock, and uneven footing as the trail winds through hardwood forest and along bluff lines to eventually bring you to the ridge top.
There are several open bluff areas with amazing views of the Buffalo River below, and the rolling hilltops in the distance.
🌄 Devil’s Tea Table Overlook
The formation itself is impossible to miss. A thick slab of limestone extends upward from the bluff, suspended high above the Buffalo River valley below. From this vantage point, the river snakes through the hills, framed by steep cliffs and endless forest.
It’s a place that feels both peaceful and powerful — especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light hits the bluffs just right.
This is an excellent spot to:
- Sit quietly and take in the view
- Photograph the river and surrounding bluffs
- Watch birds riding the thermals below
- Experience the scale and geology of the Buffalo firsthand
⚠️ Use Caution at the Bluff
Devil’s Tea Table is completely exposed, with sheer drop-offs and no barriers.
- Stay well back from the edge
- Keep children and pets under close control
- Avoid wet, icy, or windy conditions
- Be mindful of loose rock near the bluff edge
The view is incredible, but the risks are real. Respect the landscape and hike within your comfort level.
🍂 Best Time to Visit
- Spring: Green hillsides and flowing water below
- Summer: Lush foliage and long daylight, but hike early to beat the heat
- Fall: Outstanding color and crisp air — one of the best times to go
- Winter: Quiet and striking, though footing can be icy
Early mornings and weekdays tend to be quieter, especially during peak seasons.
🌲 A True Buffalo River Classic
Devil’s Tea Table is one of those hikes that proves you don’t need a long mileage day to have a memorable experience in the Ozarks. In less than three miles, you’re rewarded with a view that captures everything people love about the Buffalo National River — towering bluffs, winding water, and raw, unfiltered beauty.
If you’re exploring the area or building a list of must-see spots along the Buffalo, this one deserves a place near the top.
For more Ozark hikes, scenic overlooks, and outdoor inspiration, explore our trail guides at Lost in the Ozarks — where every mile tells a story.
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