There are two waterfalls in this area – the taller one is called the Cornelius and the smaller one is the Bridal Veils waterfall, though they both have the same trailhead. I have heard people use the names interchangeably and once you look at the falls it is easy to understand why!
From the parking lot to the Cornelius Falls is a 0.5 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Heber Springs & Ozark National Forest in Arkansas and is good for all skill levels. During rain though the trails could be a little hard to navigate. The one that forks out to the right over the bluff is a much difficult one with steep slopes, falling rocks and a muddy ground.
But this right hand trail gives you a chance to see the stream above the falls. The rocks could be slippery but nothing too dangerous, unless you are photographing too close to the precipice.
This shows the “veil” the waterfall creates and the likely reason for people to call this the Bridal Veil falls too. Either way, whether you call it the Bridal Veil Falls or the Cornelius Falls, it’s just gorgeous.
I visited this falls a couple of times during rain. So along with my cameras & tripod, I also had to carry a small umbrella to cover the equipments during the drizzles. However, it was all worth it. The rain saturated the trees and you can get that warm feeling with brilliant green and the bluish green of the water below.
The stream is watered year round but you get a good flow after rain. You would need a very wide angle lens to be able to get the full height of the waterfall in the frame & shoot up close.
There is a very narrow and slippery ledge that runs behind the waterfall. It is not wide enough to stand comfortably let alone have enough space to set up a tripod. The waterfall throws up a lot of mist too. So if you are planning to take some good pictures, be sure to carry a lens cleaning cloth.
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