One of the most popular hiking trails at Buffalo National River is getting some volunteer help this September, and you can be part of the effort.
Buffalo National River Partners is hosting a Lost Valley Stiltgrass Pull on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers will work along Lost Valley Trail to remove Japanese stiltgrass, an invasive plant that can crowd out the native wildflowers and other vegetation that make the area special.
The workday is part of Buffalo National River Partners’ ongoing effort to provide volunteers and resources to help protect the natural and cultural features of Buffalo National River.
Protecting the Wildflowers of Lost Valley
Lost Valley Trail is known for far more than its waterfalls and caves. Its rich plant life is an important part of the experience.
The trail winds through a forested box canyon near the Boxley Valley Historic District, passing American beech trees, the Natural Bridge, Cob Cave and Eden Falls. The National Park Service describes Lost Valley as one of the most popular trails within Buffalo National River.
Japanese stiltgrass threatens the native plants growing along places like Lost Valley.
Also known by its scientific name, Microstegium vimineum, Japanese stiltgrass is an annual invasive grass with a shallow root system. Despite being relatively easy to pull, it can spread aggressively. According to the Extension Master Gardener Volunteers of Durham County, stiltgrass can overtake a natural area in as little as three to five years, pushing out other plants. Dense infestations can also negatively affect habitat for ground-nesting birds and contribute additional fuel for forest fires.
One of the easiest ways to recognize the plant is by its leaves. Japanese stiltgrass typically has a distinctive silvery midvein running along each leaf.
Why Pull It Now?
Timing matters when controlling Japanese stiltgrass.
The plant germinates in spring, grows throughout summer and produces seed later in the growing season. A single plant can produce around 1,000 seeds, and those seeds may remain viable in the soil for about four years. That means removing plants before they produce and disperse seed can help reduce future infestations.
It also means controlling stiltgrass isn’t a one-time job. Hand pulling may need to be repeated over multiple seasons as previously deposited seeds continue to germinate.
That makes volunteer efforts like the Lost Valley project particularly valuable.
An Easy Way to Give Back to Buffalo National River
Volunteers will meet at 10 a.m. at the pavilion at Lost Valley Trail. The meeting location is:
Lost Valley Trail
36.01012° N, 93.37428° W
Participants will first complete required National Park Service volunteer paperwork and receive a short explanation of the project and removal process before heading out to pull and bag stiltgrass.
Buffalo National River Partners describes the work as an easy volunteer project, and last year’s stiltgrass removal event was well attended.
Volunteers should bring:
- Work gloves
- A personal water bottle
- Bug spray
- Clothing and shoes appropriate for outdoor work
The project runs until 1 p.m.
About Buffalo National River Partners
Buffalo National River Partners works with the National Park Service to support Buffalo National River through volunteer projects, financial resources, advocacy and educational efforts. The nonprofit organization’s mission includes helping preserve the park’s natural and cultural resources while improving the visitor experience.
Removing invasive plants at Lost Valley is a hands-on example of that mission.
For Arkansans who hike, paddle, camp or simply appreciate Buffalo National River, the September workday offers a chance to spend a few hours helping protect one of the park’s best-known trails.
Lost Valley Stiltgrass Pull
Saturday, September 12, 2026
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Lost Valley Trail, Buffalo National River
Coordinates: 36.01012° N, 93.37428° W
More information and event details are available from Buffalo National River Partners.
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