Michelle and I made our first hike out to McFerrin Point several years ago but it had been awhile since we'd been there so we decided it was time to make a return trip. It was nearing the end of October and we thought it'd be a great spot to see the spectacular fall colors -- and we were correct.
Not only is McFerrin Point a great place with a great view -- but because there isn't a maintained trail here, and it's not a particularly popular trail, it is likely that you can have the views all to yourself -- which definitely ads to the enjoyment.
The trail head for McFerrin Point is near the trail head to Hideout Hollow -- and if you want to extend your day, you can easily do both of these trails on the same trip.
The "trail" heads off to the left across the road from the parking area. There is no official trail here, but the route is traveled enough to generally maintain a trail trace most of the way. The trail follows a narrow bench, so as long as you don't climb too high or too low to get off the bench you'll find your way.
The trail heads off into the woods -- there is a small rocky bluff to your left and some intermittent views to your right as you hike down the trail. There are a few places where some downed trees make the trail a bit tough to follow -- but again, as long as you stay on the bench it will lead you to the destination.
The trail passes below another power line and then back into the woods again. You'll eventually find a couple of very large boulders -- this means you are getting close.
Finally, you'll reach an opening with a spectacular view of the Cecil Creek drainage area, and with views of some of the bluffs along the Buffalo River. Across the way, you can also see the gravel road that heads down to Kyle's Landing and Camp Orr.
Once you get to this opening you're not done. You can dip down a bit to your left and walk across a fairly narrow rock ledge that reaches the final point a little further out. From here you have a 260 degree view of the valley all around you. And in the fall, the colors here are fantastic.
This is definitely a place to spend some time enjoying the view and the surroundings.
The point is named after Joe McFerrin -- whose family owned a lot of land in this area including McFerrin Point and Hideout Hollow.
When you are done, you can head back the way you came.
Getting there
To get to the trail head, go to the community of Compton (8 miles North of Ponca on Highway 43) and turn onto the dirt road at the sign directing you to the Compton Trail Head. Follow this road for about 1 mile and then there is a sign that points to the Compton Trail head to the right. STAY STRAIGHT. 3.5 miles from the highway is the Hide Out Hollow Trail head. Continue for another .5 miles, and there is a place where the road bends to the right and begins going steeply down -- and there is a pull-off on the right directly under where the power lines cross the road. Park here. You can also just park at the Hide Out Hollow trail head and hike down the road to this point. Unless you have a high clearance 4WD vehicle, I would NOT recommend driving further than this parking area.
Trail Overview
Distance: Approximately 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Moderate -- the hike itself is flat and pretty easy, but because it isn't a maintained trail I'm upping the challenge level on it. The trail could be really tough to follow in the summer.
Trail Guide: Tim Ernst's Buffalo River Hiking Trails
Kid-Friendly - Yes, but keep an eye on them near some of the bluff lines. May not be ideal for really young kids due to trail conditions.
Footwear: Hiking boots or trail shoes
Other trails in the area: Hideout Hollow and Hemmed In Hollow from the Compton Trail head. The short hike to Paige Falls and Broadwater Hollow Falls is also nearby.