Waterfalls in Alabama
Alabama is home to some truly beautiful waterfalls, tucked into forests, canyons, and state parks that showcase the state’s natural charm. Having explored its outdoors, I’ve found that Alabama’s waterfalls offer the perfect mix of scenic beauty, peaceful escapes, and family-friendly adventures.
I’ve enjoyed short hikes that lead to hidden cascades, powerful falls that plunge dramatically into canyons, and quiet spots where the sound of rushing water makes the perfect backdrop for relaxation. From popular destinations to hidden gems, Alabama’s waterfalls are well worth exploring. Here are the ones I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Caney Creek Falls - 1.5 hours from Birmingham
We left from Birmingham early in the morning. We drove past rolling hills central Alabama’s woodlands. As I left the interstate and approached Double Springs, the scenery shifts to small towns, farmland, and forest (I noticed a lot of pine and hardwood).
Once inside Bankhead National Forest, the drive was slower on narrow roads. I admired dense trees, creeks, and some wildlife. Keep in mind that Cell service can be spotty here.
We parked near the trailhead on County Road 2. From the trailhead, it’s 0.7 miles one way down to the falls. I imagine it's slippery when it rains so keep en eye on the forecast.
When I reached the falls, I stopped in awe. Water poured over a rock ledge in a wide, silky sheet, dropping into a shallow, mossy pool. Caney Creek Falls felt like it belonged in another world.
The air felt cooler down there, the kind of quiet that wraps around you. I stood beneath the overhang and thought, This is what it feels like when a place lets you in.
I loved that it was quiet and peaceful compared to more crowded spots. For me, it’s the perfect weekend trip—affordable, exciting, and spectacular without needing a long drive. It can be romantic if you go as a couple, but it’s just as fun as a family adventure.
Standing there, surrounded by the vibrant forest and listening to the rush of water, I thought it was one of the best places in the state to disconnect and feel that rare kind of magic. If you’re near Birmingham, this underrated waterfall is an absolute must.
2. Cheaha Falls - 1.5 hours from Birmingham
Cheaha Falls is one of those amazing Alabama spots that feels like a hidden gem, even though it’s tucked right into the Talladega National Forest. Just a couple of hours from Birmingham, near the small town of Delta, this waterfall is part of the Chinnabee Silent Trail, which made the whole journey feel like a vibrant adventure.
When I first set out, I loved how the trail wound through the forest with rushing streams, rocky outcrops, and that cool mountain air that instantly puts me in a joyful mood. It’s not the biggest waterfall in Alabama, but it’s one of the most unique and underrated, and that’s what makes it so special to me.
Arriving at Cheaha Falls, I thought it looked like something straight out of a postcard. The water tumbles over smooth stone into a pool below, and I couldn’t resist dipping my feet in. It’s the perfect spot for an affordable weekend getaway, whether you’re with family or on a romantic trip.
What I love most is how peaceful it feels here. The trail isn’t overly crowded, so you get that quiet, dreamy escape that makes it one of the coolest places in the area. I could sit there for hours, just watching the water and taking it all in.
For me, Cheaha Falls is one of Alabama’s best-kept secrets—simple, beautiful, and absolutely worth the hike. If you’re looking for an exciting but relaxing adventure near Birmingham, this little waterfall delivers every time.
3. Chewacla Falls - Just minutes from downtown Auburn
Chewacla Falls instantly won me over as one of the coolest waterfalls in Alabama, and it’s tucked right inside Chewacla State Park in Auburn. The fact that it’s just a short drive from Montgomery and not far from Birmingham makes it such an easy and affordable weekend getaway.
When I walked into the park, I loved how vibrant and welcoming it felt—towering trees, peaceful trails, and that joyful sound of rushing water pulling me closer. The falls are created by a stone dam, and while they’re not the tallest in the state, they’re absolutely one of the most unique and underrated to visit.
Standing by Chewacla Falls, I thought it was the perfect mix of natural beauty and a cool, family-friendly vibe. The pool below is wide and calm, making it an amazing spot for swimming, wading, or just cooling off on a hot Alabama afternoon. I’ve seen people kayaking here too, which adds a really exciting twist.
For me, this spot is a gem because it’s not just about the waterfall—you can hike, bike, picnic, and even camp nearby. It’s the kind of place that works just as well for a romantic escape as it does for a family adventure.
Chewacla Falls might not be the biggest, but it has this magic charm that makes it unforgettable. It’s underrated, accessible, and one of my favorite places to relax, recharge, and feel that dreamy Alabama outdoors energy.
4. Cold Water Falls - 1 hour from Huntsville
We drove about 1 hour west (65 miles) from Huntsville to Tuscumbia.
Cold Water Falls in Tuscumbia has to be one of the most unusual and amazing waterfalls in Alabama because it’s actually man-made, yet it looks and feels like a natural wonder. I loved discovering it in Spring Park, which makes it such an easy and affordable day trip for families, couples, or anyone exploring north Alabama.
When I first saw it, I couldn’t believe how spectacular it looked—standing tall at over 80 feet wide, it’s often called the largest man-made stone waterfall in the world. The sound of the water rushing over the rocks filled the entire park with a joyful, vibrant energy, and I found myself wanting to stay longer just to take it all in.
What makes Cold Water Falls such a hidden gem to me is that it blends the beauty of nature with a brilliant idea of design. Walking the pathways around the falls, I thought it was one of the coolest spots for photography—you’ll definitely want to see in my photos how stunning it really is.
I also loved that the park surrounding the falls is filled with playful spaces, picnic areas, and even a historic vibe since Tuscumbia is one of Alabama’s most interesting small towns. It’s the kind of place where you can turn a quick stop into a full weekend getaway.
For me, Cold Water Falls is one of the best underrated attractions in the state—unique, family-friendly, and absolutely worth the trip if you’re chasing Alabama’s most spectacular waterfalls.
5. DeSoto Falls - 10 minutes from Fort Payne
DeSoto Falls is one of the absolute best waterfalls in Alabama, and the fact that it’s only about 10 minutes from Fort Payne makes it one of the most accessible hidden gems in the state. I thought it was so cool that a quick drive could lead me straight to such a spectacular view.
When I arrived, I was blown away by the sheer size of the falls. At around 100 feet tall, it’s one of the tallest and most powerful in Alabama, and seeing the water plunge into the gorge below felt like stepping into a dream. It instantly became one of my favorite spots to visit.
What makes DeSoto Falls so exciting to me is how versatile the area is. You can just admire the waterfall from the overlook for a quick stop, or you can turn it into a full weekend getaway with hiking, kayaking, or even exploring DeSoto State Park nearby. I thought it was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
I loved the romantic vibe of standing by the railings at sunset, but I could also see how this would be such a joyful family trip—kids love watching the water crash down, and the picnic spots nearby make it an easy, affordable outing.
For me, DeSoto Falls is one of those spectacular, underrated gems that feels both grand and welcoming. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls across Alabama or just need a quick escape from Fort Payne, this one is an unforgettable stop.
6. Devil's Den Falls - 45 minutes from Fayetteville
Devil’s Den Falls has to be one of the coolest and most underrated waterfalls in Alabama, and the fact that it’s only about 45 minutes from Fayetteville makes it such an easy weekend adventure. Tucked inside the Talladega National Forest near Lineville, it feels like a hidden gem that’s waiting to surprise you with its magic.
The hike to the falls is part of the Chinnabee Silent Trail, and I loved how vibrant and peaceful the walk was—streams, wildflowers, and rocky outcrops made every step exciting. It wasn’t a hard trek, but it still felt like a real adventure, which is always my favorite kind of trail.
When I finally reached Devil’s Den Falls, I was amazed by the wide cascade spilling into a large pool below. The pool is perfect for swimming, and I thought it was one of the most joyful spots to cool off on a hot Alabama day. It had that rare mix of beauty and fun that makes it an absolute best destination for both families and couples.
I also loved how affordable and laid-back the whole experience felt—no big crowds, no stress, just that unusual and unique Alabama outdoors energy. Sitting on the rocks and listening to the rush of the water felt dreamy and unforgettable.
For me, Devil’s Den Falls is one of those spectacular spots that deserves way more attention. It’s romantic, family-friendly, and one of the most amazing hidden gems near Fayetteville.
7. Falling Rock Falls - 50 minutes from Birmingham
Falling Rock Falls has to be one of my favorite hidden gems in Alabama, and I love that it’s only about 50 minutes from Birmingham. Tucked away in Shelby County near Montevallo, this underrated waterfall feels like a magical escape without having to drive too far.
The short hike to the falls is part of what makes it so exciting. I thought the trail was just challenging enough to feel adventurous, but still easy enough to enjoy as a family or romantic outing. Walking through the vibrant forest, hearing the water in the distance, built up the kind of joyful anticipation I always love on a getaway.
When I reached the waterfall, I was completely amazed. The water spills about 90 feet over a rocky ledge, and you can even walk behind the curtain of water, which felt like the coolest and most unusual feature. Standing there, looking out through the spray, was an experience I’ll never forget.
For me, this spot is one of the absolute best quick trips from Birmingham. It’s affordable, spectacular, and gives you that rare chance to feel like you’ve discovered a secret. Whether you’re looking for a romantic adventure, a family outing, or just a refreshing escape into nature, Falling Rock Falls delivers it all.
I left feeling like I’d stumbled onto one of Alabama’s most amazing and underrated treasures—and it’s one I’ll keep coming back to whenever I need a dreamy weekend escape.
8. Grace's High Falls - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Birmingham
Grace’s High Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Alabama, and I couldn’t believe it was only about an hour and a half from Birmingham. Nestled inside Little River Canyon National Preserve near Fort Payne, this gem is actually the tallest waterfall in the entire state, dropping around 133 feet.
The drive there felt like part of the adventure itself, winding through some of the most vibrant and scenic landscapes Alabama has to offer. By the time I reached the overlook, I already felt that joyful sense of being on a true weekend getaway.
Seeing the falls for the first time was absolutely amazing. The water plunges dramatically into the canyon below, and I thought it looked like something out of a dream. It’s one of those underrated places where nature feels powerful and peaceful at the same time.
What I love most is that visiting Grace’s High Falls can be as quick or as long as you want—stop by the overlook for a romantic view, or spend the whole day exploring Little River Canyon with family. Either way, it’s affordable, exciting, and unforgettable.
For me, Grace’s High Falls is the absolute best example of Alabama’s natural beauty—unique, unusual, and filled with that magic energy that makes you want to linger. If you’re near Birmingham, this is one waterfall you simply can’t miss.
9. Griffin Falls - 1 hour and 20 minutes from Birmingham
Griffin Falls is one of those underrated gems in Alabama that feels like a true hidden treasure, and I loved that it’s only about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Birmingham. Tucked away near Dawson in Dekalb County, it’s not the most famous waterfall in the state, but to me that makes it even more exciting.
The trail to the falls isn’t long, but it has that cool, adventurous vibe I really enjoy. I thought the rocky terrain, tall trees, and little streams along the way made it feel like a unique journey, almost like discovering a secret place that few people know about.
When I reached Griffin Falls, I was amazed by its unusual beauty. The cascade isn’t massive, but it flows gracefully over the rocks, creating a peaceful pool below. I loved how quiet and romantic it felt—perfect for a dreamy weekend outing, but just as joyful for a family trip.
What stood out to me most was how affordable and accessible it was compared to other popular spots. It felt like one of those cool escapes where you can sit back, breathe in the fresh air, and just enjoy Alabama’s vibrant outdoors without crowds or noise.
For me, Griffin Falls is one of the best examples of why chasing waterfalls in Alabama never gets old. It’s simple, beautiful, and absolutely worth the drive from Birmingham if you’re looking for a spectacular but underrated adventure.
Waterfalls in Alabama: Final Thoughts
Exploring waterfalls across Alabama has been one of the most exciting adventures for me, and each one feels like its own hidden gem.
I love that so many of these waterfalls are within easy driving distance from Birmingham or nearby towns, making them affordable and accessible weekend getaways. Some are perfect for a romantic escape, while others are awesome for family fun, swimming, or hiking.
What makes them the absolute best in my eyes is the variety—you can find peaceful, underrated treasures like Griffin Falls or experience the magic grandeur of Grace’s High Falls, all in the same state. Each trip feels like stepping into a new adventure, filled with vibrant landscapes, unusual features, and that cool Alabama spirit.
For me, chasing these waterfalls isn’t just about the views, it’s about the experiences that stay with you. Whether it’s walking behind the spray, dipping your feet into a pool, or simply listening to the rush of water in a quiet forest, the magic of Alabama’s waterfalls is unforgettable. If you’re looking for the best mix of beauty, adventure, and serenity, these falls are the ultimate way to experience it all.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
