Waterfalls in Alabama

Location:

Double Springs, AL (near Sipsey Wilderness)

Highlights:

Caney Creek Falls and Upper Caney Creek Falls are among Alabama’s most beloved natural gems. Nestled just outside the Sipsey Wilderness, these enchanting waterfalls flow over mossy rock ledges into crystal-clear pools surrounded by evergreen forests.

Recommended For:

Families, day hikers, photographers, dog owners, and waterfall enthusiasts looking for a peaceful and scenic escape.

What we Love:

The dual falls after heavy rains, the idyllic swimming hole beneath the cascades, and the lush, secluded forest that feels worlds away.

• Hike a relatively easy 3-mile out-and-back trail through dense woodlands, rich with ferns, moss, and birdsong.
• Admire twin curtains of water that tumble from the ledge into a scenic pool below—especially beautiful after rainfall.
• Play in the shallow swimming hole at the base of the falls—perfect for kids and dogs to splash around in safely.
• Note that while the trail is moderate, the descent to the falls is steep and the walk out of the canyon is at a steady incline.

Cost:

Free to access.

Best time to visit:

After recent rain for full flow; spring and fall offer the best trail conditions and scenic surroundings.

Local tips:

Wear sturdy shoes for the final descent. If visiting after rain, expect mud and some slick sections—bring extra water and enjoy a picnic at the base!

Distance:

About 1.5 hours from Birmingham, AL.

How to Get to Caney Creek Falls:

From Birmingham, take US-78 west to AL-195 N, then follow County Road 2 into Double Springs. The trailhead for Caney Creek Falls is located directly off County Road 2.

Address:

Caney Creek Falls Trail, Double Springs, AL 35553

Location:

Talladega National Forest, near Cheaha State Park, Delta, AL

Highlights:

Cheaha Falls is a scenic 30-foot cascade set along the Chinnabee Silent Trail in the heart of Alabama’s Talladega National Forest. Framed by boulders and surrounded by pine forest, this refreshing stop is just a short, rewarding hike from the road and offers swimming, camping, and unbeatable serenity.

Recommended For:

Day hikers, overnight campers, waterfall chasers, and anyone visiting Cheaha State Park or Mount Cheaha.

What we Love:

The short, scenic hike, the peaceful plunge pool, and the proximity to Alabama’s highest point—all within one of the state’s most beloved wilderness areas.

• Reach the falls via a comfortable 0.75-mile hike from the Chinnabee Silent Trail parking area on Talladega Scenic Byway—or opt for a 1-mile approach from Turnipseed Hunting Camp along AL-281.
• Relax by the 30-foot cascade of Cheaha Creek as it spills over layered rock formations into a cool swimming hole below.
• Camp overnight at the nearby trail shelter (first-come, first-served) or pitch your own tent in the forest for a rustic retreat under the stars.
• Explore other local attractions including Devil’s Den and High Falls in Cheaha State Park, just a short drive away.

Cost:

Free to access; camping is primitive and first-come, first-served.

Best time to visit:

Spring for best flow and wildflowers; summer for swimming; fall for cooler temps and vibrant foliage.

Local tips:

Bring water shoes for swimming and crossing slick rocks. Arrive early to snag a camping spot and beat afternoon crowds.

Distance:

About 1.5 hours from Birmingham, AL.

How to Get to Cheaha Falls:

Drive along AL Highway 281 (Talladega Scenic Byway) to the Chinnabee Silent Trailhead or Turnipseed Campground. Trail signs clearly point to Cheaha Falls.

Address:

2141 Bunker Loop, Delta, AL 36258

Waterfalls for Hikers

Location:

Chewacla State Park, Auburn, AL

Highlights:

Chewacla Falls is a charming 30-foot cascade created by the spillway of Chewacla Dam within the scenic 696-acre Chewacla State Park. The waterfall flows into Chewacla Lake, offering a picturesque spot that’s easily accessible via family-friendly trails.

Recommended For:

Families, hikers, lake-goers, mountain bikers, and day trippers visiting Auburn or East Alabama.

What we Love:

The ease of access, the variety of outdoor activities, and the tranquil lake views surrounding this beautiful man-made falls.

• Walk the Mountain Laurel Trail, one of eight scenic hiking routes in the park, to reach Chewacla Falls with minimal effort.
• Admire the 30-foot drop as water spills from the dam and flows through a forested rock gorge into Chewacla Lake below.
• Enjoy outdoor activities at Chewacla Lake including boating, swimming, and fishing—all within steps of the falls.
• Explore the park’s network of trails, many of which are easy and accessible for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.

Cost:

Park entrance fee required ($4–$5 per person).

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for the best trail conditions and lake views; summer for swimming and camping.

Local tips:

Bring water shoes if you plan to wade near the base of the falls. Arrive early on weekends to enjoy quieter trails and better parking availability.

Distance:

Just minutes from downtown Auburn, AL; about 1.5 hours from Montgomery or Atlanta.

How to Get to Chewacla Falls:

Enter Chewacla State Park from Shell Toomer Parkway in Auburn. Follow signs to the trailheads—Mountain Laurel Trail leads directly to the falls.

Address:

Chewacla State Park: 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, AL 36830
Phone: 334-887-5621

Location:

Spring Park, Tuscumbia, AL

Highlights:

Cold Water Falls holds the title of the world’s largest human-made natural stone waterfall, flowing through a stunning cascade built from over 2,000 tons of local sandstone. This striking feature is the crown jewel of historic Spring Park in downtown Tuscumbia.

Recommended For:

Families, photographers, history buffs, weekend travelers, and anyone looking to combine natural beauty with fun community attractions.

What we Love:

The unique engineering behind the falls, the grandeur of the choreographed fountain show, and the wide range of family-friendly park features—from rides to trout fishing.

• Marvel at the 80-foot-wide and 42-foot-tall Cold Water Falls, where 4.3 million gallons of water flow daily in a spectacular display.
• Visit during the weekend to experience the light and water show at dusk, with 51 illuminated jets dancing to music.
• Fish for trout year-round in the park’s stream-fed pond—a relaxing activity for all ages.
• Enjoy Spring Park’s many attractions, including a carousel, splash pad, roller coaster, playground, scenic picnic spots, and a charming on-site café.

Cost:

Free to visit; small fees apply for rides and select attractions.

Best time to visit:

Weekends for the fountain show; spring and fall for mild weather and colorful scenery.

Local tips:

Bring a picnic and let the kids enjoy the rides while you relax by the falls. Arrive before dusk to catch a good spot for the water and light show!

Distance:

About 1 hour from Huntsville; 2 hours from Birmingham.

How to Get to Cold Water Falls:

Located in Spring Park in the heart of Tuscumbia. Follow signage from Main Street to Spring Park Road; ample parking is available near the park entrance.

Address:

Spring Park: 1 Spring Park Road, Tuscumbia, AL 35674
Phone: 256-383-0783

Falls For Photographers

Location:

Mentone, near Fort Payne, AL

Highlights:

DeSoto Falls is one of Alabama’s tallest and most visited waterfalls, thundering 104 feet over a dramatic gorge carved into Lookout Mountain. Located in the scenic town of Mentone, this natural wonder is part of DeSoto State Park and offers stunning views and easy access.

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, road trippers, photographers, families, and anyone exploring northeast Alabama’s Lookout Mountain region.

What we Love:

The powerful single-drop waterfall, the easy access via a paved path, and the nearby state park filled with hiking trails, wildflowers, and smaller cascades.

• View the falls from a designated scenic overlook—a short, paved walk from the nearby parking lot that is family- and stroller-friendly.
• Marvel at the 104-foot drop of the West Fork of Little River as it plunges from Lookout Mountain into the gorge below.
• Learn the historical significance—the falls are named after Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, who passed through the region in the 1540s.
• Explore nearby DeSoto State Park, which offers additional waterfalls, hiking trails, kayaking, fishing, and guided wildflower walks in spring.

Cost:

Free to visit the falls; day-use fee may apply for DeSoto State Park facilities.

Best time to visit:

Spring for peak water flow and wildflowers; fall for colorful foliage and crisp air; summer for light hiking and shaded picnic areas.

Local tips:

The overlook is popular—visit early or during weekdays for a quieter experience. Pair this stop with a hike in DeSoto State Park or a visit to nearby Little River Canyon for a full waterfall day.

Distance:

About 10 minutes from Fort Payne, AL; 1.5 hours from Birmingham.

How to Get to DeSoto Falls:

From Fort Payne, follow AL-35 to DeSoto Parkway NE. The falls are well-signed and have a designated parking area with a short walk to the viewing point.

Address:

DeSoto State Park: 7104 Desoto Pkwy. NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Phone: 256-845-0051

Location:

Devil’s Den State Park, West Fork, AR (Ozark Mountains)

Highlights:

Devil’s Den Falls is a scenic cascade nestled along the Devil’s Den Self-Guided Trail, the most iconic hiking route in Arkansas’s Devil’s Den State Park. Surrounded by dense forest in the Ozark Mountains, this tranquil set of waterfalls is a highlight of one of the region’s most photogenic landscapes.

Recommended For:

Day hikers, families, cave explorers, and waterfall photographers looking for scenic trails and natural beauty in northwest Arkansas.

What we Love:

The serene woodland setting, the easy access to nearby caves, and the wooden footbridge that offers the perfect photo opportunity overlooking the falls.

• Follow the Devil’s Den Self-Guided Trail through the lush woodlands of the Ozarks—one of Arkansas’s most beloved hiking experiences.
• Visit the Devil’s Den Cave and the Devil’s Icebox before reaching the waterfalls, both of which are easily accessible and family-friendly.
• Photograph the waterfalls from the wooden bridge that spans the cascade—an ideal vantage point for capturing the scene.
• Explore additional trails like the Butterfield Trail and Gorley King horse trail, which offer longer routes for hikers and equestrians.

Cost:

Free to access; parking and entry to the park are free.

Best time to visit:

Spring and early summer for flowing waterfalls; fall for colorful foliage and ideal hiking temperatures.

Local tips:

Bring a flashlight if you want to explore Devil’s Den Cave. While swimming is not allowed in the falls, the cool mist and shaded trail make this a perfect spot for a relaxing nature break.

Distance:

About 45 minutes from Fayetteville, AR; 2.5 hours from Little Rock.

How to Get to Devil’s Den Falls:

Drive to Devil’s Den State Park on AR-74. Park at the designated trailhead for the Devil’s Den Self-Guided Trail and follow the well-marked path past Devil’s Den Cave and Icebox to reach the falls.

Address:

Devil's Den State Park: 11333 AR-74, West Fork, AR 72774
Phone: 479-761-3325

Waterfalls for Families

Location:

Montevallo, AL

Highlights:

If you’re craving a quick Alabama adventure with a big payoff, Falling Rock Falls is a must. Just 40 miles south of Birmingham, this hidden gem offers a jaw-dropping 90-foot cascade tucked inside lush woodlands.

Recommended For:

Waterfall lovers, nature photographers, day hikers, and anyone needing a scenic escape near Birmingham.

What we Love:

Easy access to a dramatic waterfall, a secret cavern to explore, and the peaceful sounds of falling water echoing through the forest.

• Hike a simple 1.4-mile out-and-back trail to reach the base of the falls, perfect for a casual outing.
• Marvel at the 90-foot drop as water tumbles over a towering bluff and crashes onto mossy boulders.
• Relax in the small cavern at the base—an ideal spot to sit, reflect, and watch the water in motion.
• Be Careful: Rocks near the falls can be extremely slippery—good hiking shoes and caution are a must.

Cost:

Free

Best time to visit:

After recent rains for peak flow; spring and fall offer the best views.

Local tips:

Go early to avoid crowds and bring bug spray—this is prime wilderness.

Distance:

About 50 minutes from Birmingham, AL

How to Get to Falling Rock Falls:

Head south from Birmingham on I-65. Take Exit 228 to AL-25 S, then follow signs to Cahaba River WMA. Parking is available near the trailhead at the management area entrance.

Address:

Cahaba River Wildlife Management Area, Montevallo, AL 35115

Romantic Waterfalls

Location:

Fort Payne, AL

Highlights:

If you’re chasing waterfalls in Alabama, Grace’s High Falls deserves a top spot. Just 10 miles from DeSoto Falls, it’s the tallest seasonal waterfall in the state and puts on an unforgettable show after heavy rains.

Recommended For:

Scenic drive lovers, seasonal waterfall chasers, nature photographers, and hikers exploring Little River Canyon.

What we Love:

Dramatic 133-foot drop into a canyon, sweeping overlook views, and bonus nearby waterfalls after heavy rainfall.

• Marvel at the third-highest waterfall in Alabama, plunging 133 feet into Little Creek Canyon.
• Visit during the wet season to see Grace’s High Falls at its most powerful and photogenic.
• Explore nearby creeks and seasonal falls created by rain runoff throughout Little River Canyon National Preserve.
• Pair your trip with a stop at DeSoto Falls, just 10 miles away, for a full waterfall circuit.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available.

Best time to visit:

Late winter through spring when rainfall is abundant.

Local tips:

Visit the overlook on AL-176 for the best view—binoculars help on misty days!

Distance:

About 1 hour and 30 minutes from Birmingham, AL

How to Get to Grace’s High Falls:

From Birmingham, take I-59 N toward Fort Payne. Exit at AL-35 and follow signs to Little River Canyon National Preserve. The overlook is located off AL-176, a scenic drive through the preserve.

Address:

12035 AL-176, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Phone: 256-845-3548

Location:

Dawson, AL

Highlights:

Looking for a low-key waterfall adventure with a side of exploration? Just over an hour from Birmingham, Griffin Falls offers scenic hiking, rock climbing, and even a refreshing dip if you’re up for a little scrambling.

Recommended For:

Adventurous hikers, climbers, waterfall seekers, and nature lovers craving a peaceful backwoods experience.

What we Love:

Secluded 40-foot waterfall, tranquil forest setting, floral offerings left by visiting church groups, and that hidden swimming hole beyond the cliffs.

• Hike a short but challenging trail with some steep elevation and rocky terrain to reach the falls.
• Admire the 40-foot cascade spilling over a sandstone bluff off Sand Mountain into a quiet pool below.
• Discover a touching tradition—flowers below the falls, believed to be left by church groups who hold services there.
• Cool off by continuing past the falls to a cliff-face jump spot for a quick, invigorating swim.

Cost:

Free

Best time to visit:

Spring and early summer, when the water flow is strongest and temperatures are perfect for a swim.

Local tips:

Wear sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for slick rocks—balance is key on this trail.

Distance:

About 1 hour and 20 minutes from Birmingham, AL

How to Get to Griffin Falls:

From Birmingham, take I-59 N toward Fort Payne. Exit at AL-68 W toward Crossville. Turn onto county roads leading toward Dawson, AL—Griffin Falls is near the base of Sand Mountain and may not be clearly marked, so use GPS coordinates for best results.

Address:

Griffin Falls, AL 35962