The Cossatot River's Falls Section charts a thrilling 6.25-mile course that challenges kayakers and rafters with a mix of Class II to IV rapids set against rugged Arkansas terrain. Beginning at Ed Banks Road and winding eastward to the Highway 278 takeout near Wickes, this river run balances pulse-quickening whitewater with accessible catch points and scenic campsites, making it a versatile draw for paddlers of varying skill and ambition.

The river in this section is a force that dares you forward, weaving through a channel shaped by large boulders and ledge drops that carve its path steeply—averaging about 20 feet of descent per mile. The Falls themselves are the centerpiece: six powerful, successive plunges dropping over 30 feet within a quarter-mile stretch. Each rapid within this section presents a unique profile, from the tight, technical Zig-Zag drop right out of the put-in where the current nudges craft left beneath a low branch, to the rollicking Esses that funnel water through constrained rock corridors and cakewalk waves that invite both challenge and play.

Notable rapids such as Deer Camp and Devil Hollow present extended runs loaded with holes, ledges, and the occasional humbling shallow rock—demanding patient line-reading and decisive moves. Devil Hollow Falls, resting near the outskirts of the takeout, commands careful navigation to avoid submerged obstacles beneath its broken ledge, a stark reminder that respect for the river translates to safety.

Access for the run is practical yet requires a readiness for rugged dirt and gravel roads, with two primary entry routes east of the Highway 278 bridge guiding paddlers to the Ed Banks launch or points closer to the Falls. Takeouts near the highway are clearly marked and equipped with primitive facilities, including portajohns and tent sites, while primitive camping options lie upstream at Ed Banks and Sandbar Bridge—allowing for easy multi-day excursions.

The gradient varies notably throughout the route, from tight 45 feet per mile bursts in the heart of the Falls to more leisurely sections offering natural pools to rest and scout upcoming rapids. Flow conditions at the Vandervoort gauge influence navigability—with runs considered optimal between 3 and 6 feet of river height, allowing waves and holes to form without overwhelming the channels. Above 6 feet, portaging certain spots should be considered, especially around complex ledges that increase significantly in difficulty.

Such a river demands practical preparation: durable footwear that grips unpredictable bedrock, ample hydration for warm summer days, and timing trips to avoid flooding or ultra-low flows which dull the whitewater’s edge. Paddlers will appreciate planning around the flow gauge, scouting key rapids from accessible banks, and adopting a conservative approach in high water—choosing safer lines or portages when necessary.

Beyond the rapids, the Falls Section offers immersive experience with the river’s mood—its water pushing you onward with relentless energy, banks lined by unyielding rock faces, and pockets of forest that soften the scene with shadow and rustle. The Falls access point also doubles as a convenient park-and-play zone for paddlers wanting to test specific drops without committing to the entire run.

Overall, this stretch of the Cossatot River strikes a rare balance: a pulse-raising whitewater route framed by manageable logistics and natural beauty. It is an essential Arkansas run for paddlers who relish technical water and the satisfaction of maneuvering through wild, dynamic currents shaped by persistent rivercraft.