Little River Canyon National Preserve - Fort Payne, Alabama

Jennifer Thomas Archer

An absolutely stunning place. We did hike to the falls from the back of the building amd it was less than a mile which was great for the littles. It was mostly flat with some tree roots and rocks to navigate in areas. It was rather steep getting down to the lower area. We were hiking behind an older couple who was struggling to make it. Being our first time we were not aware you could actually park at the falls which would have been perfect for them. By the time they made it to the Fall they had no energy to actually see it. I would definitely recommend going at sunrise or before sunset. It would be stunning. If you park at the Falls they have a boardwalk amd observation deck for those not able to get to the bottom. The facility was very clean and well maintained. The staff was very friendly.
* google maps will direct you to the first entrance which is now an exit. You will get confused and think you missed the turn. Keep going and you will see a big sign and know you are in the right spot. It does not let me suggest an edit or I would.

Cheline Jordan

We drove the scenic drive at the top of the canyon. It was beautiful! I love that it's dog friendly. Even the visitor center allows dogs inside! We had a great time!

Donna Bollenbach

Bob and I recently went on a 3-day camping trip to Desoto State Park in Alabama and visited the Little River Canyon National Preserve atop Lookout Mountain in Alabama. Nearly the entire length of the Little River flows along the middle of Lookout Mountain from Georgia to Alabama. The National Canyon Preserve protects a 25-mile stretch of the river that runs through a deep canyon carved by the river over millions of years. A must do is The Little River Canyon Rim Parkway a scenic drive that runs the length of the canyon, beginning at the falls and ending at the Canyon Mouth Park, is a scenic drive with several overlooks. There are also some hiking trails that go to the bottom of the canyon.
We begin our trip to the National Preserve at the Little River Falls. An ADA-accessible boardwalk overlooks the 45-foot-high falls and a hiking trail to the water. Visitors can swim in the Blue Hole, a beautiful pool of water above the falls, or, when the water is calm, in the deeper pool below the falls. The size of the parking lot near the falls suggests that this place gets very crowded on hot summer weekends. The overlook offers a beautiful view of the falls and the pool of water below, while the view from the Highway 35 bridge between DeKalb and Cherokee counties showcases the top of the falls and the beginning of the canyon.

Before embarking on your drive along the Little River Canyon Rim Parkway you can use the restrooms here, as the next facilities will be at the other end of the parkway.

Krissy Cx

Absolutely stunning park. We went fishing, didn't catch anything but had a lovely time. There are plenty of paths to the river & picnic tables to sit at. There are air-conditioned flushable bathrooms and a playground for little kids.

stephanie winters

Awesome overlooks, scenic drives, gorgeous waterfalls and black bears! Many of can be enjoyed with just a short walk from the parking areas.

Allison Stephens

A beautiful, peaceful experience seeing nature. Hawks soaring above canyon, waterfall, and many areas to view canyon with picnic benches available. The visitor center is very interesting and staff helpful.

Randy Silver

Great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Little River. Take water shoes and a towel, maybe a picnic basket and drinks.
Add your favorite pup and human for a great place to relax.
Parking can be a hassle. Restrooms in the parking lot.
It’s a clean and nice place.

Sherry Chhabra

Beautiful waterfalls, fresh water and a great trail to view the river up close. Best place to visit on a hot summer day. Loved it!!