Without any doubt, Alabama is a hiker’s dream! There are plenty of waterfalls to explore in Alabama. There are just short of 80,000 miles of streams and rivers in Alabama. The freshwater enhances the scenic beauty of the state and the waterfalls add wonderful natural beauty away from the towns.
Alabama has many day trip opportunities, so it is one of the most desired destinations for families wanting some time out in the fresh air. Alabama also offers much to its visitors. Hikers will find a lot of trails to follow, and along the way, water courses abound.
Alabama is also referred to as the “land of thousand waterfalls”. If you want to explore some of them then here is a list.
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10 best waterfalls in Alabama
Whether you are looking for a relaxing escape from city life or on a mission to discover some of the South’s hidden gems that fall in Alabama, you are on the right page. There are so many waterfalls in Alabama that you may be overwhelmed with deciding which one you should visit first. So keep reading!
We are going to cover the 10 best waterfalls that you must put on top of your list.
#1. DeSoto falls:
DeSoto falls are located in DeSoto State Park in the Northeastern part of the state. Desoto falls is one of the most striking waterfalls in Alabama. It is also the tallest coming in at over 100 feet. This fall is formed by the West Fork by the Little River, these wonderful falls plunge into a beautiful naturally formed rock canyon.
You can experience the amazing view of it without any hiking. You can easily grasp the railed overlook through a paved pathway that starts from the parking lot and down approximately 50 steps. There is also a picnic area nearby in the fall to make the most of your visit. Near the falls, you can also see DeSoto State Park where you can enjoy a lot of fun activities such as fishing, kayaking, wildflower excursion, and hiking.
The best time to visit this waterfall is in the winter or in the early spring when more rainfall and higher water levels create the most powerful water flow.
#2. Caney creek falls:
Caney Creek falls is located in the Bankhead National Forest. Caney waterfalls are one of the most breathtaking hidden waterfalls in the state. This area is a wet year around, so the waterfall never dries up. You can easily experience the year around fall through a three-mile hike via the dense forest and lush undergrowth.
Within seconds, you can find yourself covered with moss-covered rocks and evergreen trees along with the starting point towards Caney creek falls.
#3. Noccalula Falls:
Due to its picturesque views and more than 90 feet in height, Noccalula falls is one of the most visited waterfalls in Alabama. Noccalula Falls is located in Gadsden, Alabama. Noccalula Waterfall is one of the most visited waterfalls in Alabama. Noccalula is surrounded by natural beauty and is full of myths.
Noccalula, a Cherokee Princess was honored with a bronze momentum at the top of the fall. Tradition says she died on her wedding day by jumping down from the top of the fall after being forced by her father to leave the guy she loves for another. There are plenty of historic sites to explore at this waterfall. Today, this waterfall is a part of Noccalula Park. You can easily spend an entire day at Noccalula Park experiencing the idyllic view of the waterfall and woodland surrounding.
#4. High falls:
The impressive High Falls is one of the most incredible Alabama Waterfalls because of the natural bridge at its base, engraved by hundreds of years of flowing water. High Falls is located in High Falls Park east of Guntersville. This powerful waterfall falls 35 feet into Town Creek and can span up to 300 feet across during high flow time.
You can walk along a pedestrian bridge that provides a scenic view of both the upstream and downstream sides. You can enjoy this amazing view only by a short hike from the parking lot. Depending on the water level, you can wade in the water above the falls. Adventurous hikers also can steep climb down at the bottom of the falls to an expensive better view.
#5. Little River Falls
Just a 10 miles drive south of Desoto State park, you can find the easily accessible little River Falls in Alabama. It is immersed in the natural beauty of Little River canyon Natural preserve. You can experience the views of the 45-foot falls by descending a short but creepy paved pathway leading from the parking lot to the down.
You can swim here, but you should be careful about the slippery rocks and swift water that easily carry the swimmers over the edge. If you happen to be visiting in the early spring then you can see the high water flow because of the rainfall.
#6. Devil’s Den Waterfall:
Devil’s den Fall is located in Clay Country’s Cheaha State Park, just 15 minutes drive from Salt Creek Falls. It is smaller than other waterfalls in Alabama with only a 10-foot drop. Even though it is small, this waterfall offers plenty of summer fun that anyone looking for a summer activity.
To reach Devil’s den Waterfall, you need to reach Cheaha State Park and follow the Chinnabee Silent Trail for half an hour. Especially if you are an outdoor person, this entire atmosphere will appeal to you. After just one visit, this waterfall will become one of your favorite swimming spots.
#7. Kinlock Falls:
Kinlock falls is located inside the Sipsey Wilderness, and it is known as the “land of 1000 waterfalls.” This area is a part of Bankhead National Forest and is home to some waterfalls in Alabama. This waterfall spans across 20 feet Hubbard Creek and it gradually cascades down into a swimming hole.
Kinlock falls is easily accessible all year around and it is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and even sliding down the rock face.
#8. Chewacla Falls:
Chewalca falls is located in eastern Alabama and it is made by Chewacla dam. Despite being man-made it is one of the most incredible waterfalls in Alabama. This fall is 30 feet high, it is big enough to be impressive. Eight hiking trails offer walkers as well as the cyclists to explore the region.
These falls are a remarkable sight, and the water eventually falls into Chewacla Lake. Here, you can experience a lot of fun activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and mountain trails at the park. If you are looking for a place to spend a whole day then Chewacla park is a deal for a day trip. The camping facility also allows the visitors to stay for a little while.
#9. Peavine falls:
Peavine Waterfall is only 20 minutes away from Birmingham and is located in nearby Oak Mountain State park. It is named after the flowering plant surrounding the park. The picturesque 65-foot Peavine Falls is worth the short hike required to reach it. It offers different types of trail options. You can choose any of them according to the type of adventure you are looking for.
No matter, what trail you choose the paths are rocky and the bottom of the falls is steep and slippery. You can cool off at the refreshing pool at the bottom of the fall after hiking. The best time to visit this waterfall is during the rainfall or just after the rainfall. Still, it is a lovely place to hike to any time of the year.
#10. Mardis Mill falls:
Mardis Mill falls is situated approximately 45 minutes away from Birmingham, Mardis Mill falls is the perfect getaway from the city. As it is on Graves creel, it is also known as Graves falls. A short and simple trail gets you to the bottom of the Mardis Mill fall, making it one of the most accessible waterfalls in Alabama.
It only drops 16 feet, spans 35 feet, and has a cool pool at the bottom of the fall. You can expect a large crowd during the summer months, especially on weekends. You can enjoy a picnic after an afternoon of swimming and enjoying the picturesque natural beauty.
FAQ:
How many waterfalls does Alabama have?
Ans: there are approximately ten thousand waterfalls throughout Alabama. The Sipsey wilderness is also referred to as “The land of 1000 waterfalls.” As there seems to be a waterfall at each corner around it.
Which is the biggest waterfall in Alabama?
Ans: Grace’s High waterfall, located in the Little River Canyon National Preserve, is the tallest in Alabama. You cannot see this 133 feet high waterfall during the summer because of low rainfall.
Wrap up:
Alabama is one of the biggest gems states where you can expect as much awesome nature. Alabama is home to dozens of waterfalls. These waterfalls featuring with picturesque landscapes, swimming holes, natural preserves, wonderful birds, and a lot of fun activities too.
Some of the waterfalls are surrounded by amazing picnic spots where you can enjoy your whole day. So, if you plan for visiting one or more stunning waterfalls in Alabama then you can choose from the list. It will be a great way to beat the upcoming heat and a way to cool off!
