• What can visitors do at Alabama's waterfalls?
    • Wave goodbye to summer with a visit to one of the spectacular and scenic waterfalls in Alabama, where you can spend the day hiking, biking, picnicking or dipping your toes and swimming in the refreshing waters.
  • Why is Alabama known as the Land of a Thousand Waterfalls?
    • Aptly named the Land of a Thousand Waterfalls, Alabama is home to more than 77,000 miles of rivers and streams that wind their way through its pristine state parks and wilderness.
  • What type of experience can visitors expect when visiting Alabama's waterfalls?
    • Whether you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, are looking for an epic adventure, or simply want to soak up the last glorious days of summer, there is a beautiful curtain of falling water near you.
  • What should visitors bring when exploring Alabama's waterfalls?
    • So, pack that picnic lunch and head out to some of these sensational scenic spots.

Best Time to Visit Waterfalls in Alabama

  • March to May – Spring rains fuel powerful cascades like DeSoto and Noccalula Falls.
  • April & May – Pleasant temps and blooming wildflowers make for perfect waterfall hikes.
  • June to August – Great for swimming and shaded trails, though some falls may slow in dry spells.
  • September to November – Fall colors enhance views and trails are less crowded.
  • December to February – Quieter months with occasional icy views and peaceful hikes.

This post may include affiliate links. Click here for Affiliate Disclosure.

Caney Creek Falls


Hike mossy trails or relax by the falls on a peaceful spring trip.

Caney Creek Falls

© Courtesy of RIck - Fotolia.com

  • What are Caney Creek Falls and Upper Caney Creek Falls?
    • Caney Creek Falls and Upper Caney Creek Falls are among the most beautiful waterfalls in Alabama.
    • They are located just outside the Sipsey Wilderness in Double Springs.
  • What is the surrounding environment like?
    • The falls are surrounded by moss-covered rocks and evergreen trees in a lush, secluded area at the head of Caney Creek.
  • How can visitors reach Caney Creek Falls?
    • The falls are accessible via an easy 3-mile hike through dense woodlands and verdant undergrowth.
  • What happens to the falls after heavy rain?
    • After heavy rains, the falls produce two curtains of water that pour from the ledge into the swimming hole below.
    • The swimming hole is ideal for kids and dogs to splash around in.
  • Are there any safety concerns?
    • Visitors should be cautious on the approach to the falls, as it is steep.
    • The walk out of the canyon is at an incline, so hikers should be prepared for a workout.
  • Where is Caney Creek Falls located?
    • The falls are a 1.5-hour drive from Birmingham.
    • They can be accessed at the Caney Creek Falls Trailhead on County Road 2 in Double Springs.

Caney Creek Falls Trail, Double Springs, AL 35553

Cheaha Falls, Alabama


Explore mountain paths or enjoy cascading pools—perfect for an exciting weekend adventure.

Cheaha Falls, Alabama

© Courtesy of ChuckS - Fotolia.com

  • What is Cheaha Falls?
    • Cheaha Falls is a breathtaking 30-foot waterfall that spills from rocks along the Chinnabee Silent Trail in the Talladega National Forest.
  • Where is Cheaha Falls located?
    • The falls are set along Cheaha Creek, which begins in the Talladega National Forest, home to Mount Cheaha, Alabama’s tallest mountain.
  • How can visitors reach Cheaha Falls?
    • A comfortable three-quarter-mile hike from the trail’s parking area on Talladega Scenic Byway leads to the falls.
    • Alternatively, visitors can take a 1-mile hike from the Turnipseed Hunting Camp on Alabama Highway 281.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Cheaha Falls?
    • Visitors can soak up the beautiful scenery, take a dip in the water, or camp overnight.
  • Are there camping facilities near the falls?
    • A trail shelter is available near the falls on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • Alternatively, visitors can pitch a tent for a more immersive outdoor experience.
  • Are there other attractions nearby?
    • If you have some spare time, visit Devil’s Den and High Falls in nearby Cheaha State Park before heading home.

2141 Bunker Loop, Delta 36258, AL 35553

Chewacla Falls


Swim below rocky drops or hike forest trails for a fun family outing.

Chewacla Falls

© Courtesy of perpis - Fotolia.com

  • What are Chewacla Falls?
    • Chewacla Falls are lovely waterfalls formed by the spillway of the Chewacla Dam in Chewacla State Park.
    • The falls drop from a height of 30 feet and eventually flow into Chewacla Lake.
  • Where are Chewacla Falls located?
    • The falls are within the 696-acre outdoor playground of Chewacla State Park, one of Alabama’s most scenic parks.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Chewacla Lake?
    • The lake attracts visitors for boating, fishing, and swimming.
    • There is also an extensive network of hiking and mountain trails to explore.
  • How many hiking trails are in Chewacla State Park?
    • There are eight hiking trails around Chewacla State Park.
    • The most popular trail is the Mountain Laurel Trail, which leads directly to Chewacla Falls.
  • Are the hiking trails accessible?
    • Many trails in Chewacla State Park are easily accessible for able-bodied visitors of all ages.
    • These trails provide a fun-filled outdoor experience in one of Alabama’s loveliest state parks.

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

Cold Water Falls, Alabama


Admire stonework falls or stroll park paths—an easy and affordable day trip.

Cold Water Falls, Alabama

© Courtesy of artifirsov - Fotolia.com

  • What is Cold Water Falls?
    • Cold Water Falls is the world’s largest human-made natural stone waterfall.
    • It was constructed using more than 2,000 tons of local sandstone.
  • Where is Cold Water Falls located?
    • The falls are located in historic Spring Park in Tuscumbia.
  • What are the dimensions of Cold Water Falls?
    • The waterfall spans 80 feet and has a 42-foot drop.
    • Each day, 4.3 million gallons of water pass through the falls.
  • What other attractions are in Spring Park?
    • Spring Park features a large fountain with 51 jets choreographed to lights and music.
    • The centerpiece of the fountain shoots 125 meters into the air.
  • Is there a water and light show at the park?
    • Yes, a water and light show is held every weekend at dusk.
  • Can visitors go fishing in the park?
    • Yes, trout fishing is available in the pond year-round.
  • What other amenities does Spring Park offer?
    • The park has excellent picnic spots for visitors.
    • Attractions include a traditional carousel, the Spring Park train, and the Python roller coaster.
    • There is also a playground with a splash pad for children and an on-site café.

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

DeSoto Falls


See towering cascades or hike rugged terrain on a romantic nature-filled escape.

DeSoto Falls

© Courtesy of Ronnie Howard - Fotolia.com

  • What is DeSoto Falls?
    • DeSoto Falls is one of the tallest and most visited waterfalls in Alabama.
    • The waterfall is situated more than 100 feet above a beautiful gorge in DeSoto State Park.
  • Where is DeSoto Falls located?
    • The falls are located in the small town of Mentone, near Fort Payne.
  • How tall is DeSoto Falls?
    • DeSoto Falls stands at a thunderous 104 feet, making it a striking natural landmark.
  • How did DeSoto Falls get its name?
    • The falls are named after the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto.
  • What river forms DeSoto Falls?
    • The falls are formed by the West Fork of Little River as it plunges over Lookout Mountain.
  • How can visitors view DeSoto Falls?
    • A scenic lookout point provides beautiful views of the falls.
    • The lookout is accessed via a short, paved, pedestrian-friendly pathway from the parking area.
  • What other attractions are near DeSoto Falls?
    • A few miles down the road is DeSoto State Park, which features several smaller waterfalls.
    • The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including:
      • Hiking
      • Fishing
      • Kayaking
      • Wildflower expeditions

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

Devil's Den Falls


Wade into clear pools or picnic nearby during a relaxing summer retreat with kids.

Devil's Den Falls

© Courtesy of Erin - Fotolia.com

  • What is Devil’s Den Falls?
    • Devil’s Den Falls is a set of waterfalls located along the Devil’s Den Self-Guided Trail, the most famous hiking trail in Devil’s Den State Park.
  • Where is Devil’s Den Falls located?
    • The falls are surrounded by the dense woodlands of the Talladega National Forest in the Ozark Mountains of northwest Arkansas.
  • What scenic features does the Devil’s Den Trail pass?
    • The trail boasts beautifully scenic views and passes two main features in the park:
      • Devil’s Den Cave
      • Devil’s Icebox
    • The waterfalls are located just after these features along the trail.
  • Is there a good spot to take photographs of the falls?
    • Yes, a little wooden bridge spans the waterfalls, providing an excellent spot for photographs.
  • Can visitors swim in Devil’s Den Falls?
    • No, swimming is not allowed in the falls.
  • Can Devil’s Den Cave be explored?
    • Yes, Devil’s Den Cave can be explored with the use of a flashlight.
  • What other trails are popular in Devil’s Den State Park?
    • Other well-known trails include:
      • The extensive Butterfield Trail
      • The Gorley King horse trail
    • The park is considered an Alabama icon and offers a range of hiking and equestrian trails.

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

Falling Rock Falls


Walk forest trails or explore the cave behind this unusual and thrilling waterfall.

Falling Rock Falls

© Courtesy of Koirill - Fotolia.com

  • What is Falling Rock Falls?
    • Falling Rock Falls is a spectacular 90-foot waterfall that cascades over a towering bluff and crashes onto the boulders below.
  • Where is Falling Rock Falls located?
    • The waterfall is set within the Cahaba River Wildlife Management Area, about 40 miles south of Birmingham in Montevallo.
  • How can visitors access Falling Rock Falls?
    • The falls are accessed via an easy 1.4-mile out-and-back hike.
    • The trail leads directly to the bottom of the falls, where visitors can experience the powerful cascade up close.
  • Is there a special feature at the base of the falls?
    • Yes, there is a cavern near the base where people like to sit and watch the cascading water.
  • Are there any safety precautions visitors should take?
    • The terrain near the falls is very slippery, so visitors need to exercise extreme caution when climbing down to the base.

Cahaba WMA, Montevallo, AL 35115

Grace's High Falls


Admire Alabama’s tallest waterfall or view from above on a quick scenic stop.

Grace's High Falls

© Courtesy of Suphaya - Fotolia.com

  • What is Grace's High Falls?
    • Grace's High Falls is the third-highest waterfall in Alabama, standing at 133 feet.
    • It is a seasonal waterfall that is especially spectacular during the wet season.
  • Where is Grace's High Falls located?
  • Where does the waterfall flow?
    • During the wet season, the falls cascade into Little Creek Canyon, creating a breathtaking display of rushing water.
  • Are there other waterfalls nearby?
    • High rainfall in the area creates several smaller creeks and waterfalls, which are worth exploring on a hike.
    • DeSoto Falls is located within 10 miles of Grace’s High Falls and is another must-see attraction in the area.

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

Griffin Falls


Climb boulders or enjoy peaceful views on a cheap, off-the-beaten-path trip.

Griffin Falls

© Courtesy of alkiona_25 - Fotolia.com

  • What is Griffin Falls?
    • Griffin Falls is a 40-foot waterfall located just outside the town of Dawson in DeKalb County, Alabama.
    • It is a favorite climbing spot and a great place to hike and explore.
  • Where does Griffin Falls originate?
    • The falls flow off Sand Mountain and over a small sandstone cliff into a pool below.
  • What is unique about the falls?
    • Below one of the ledges, there is an unusual collection of flowers, which are believed to be left by church groups that hold services at the falls.
  • How can visitors reach Griffin Falls?
    • The falls are reached via a short hike that includes substantial elevation.
    • The trail contains several boulders and rocks, which can be tricky to navigate for those without good balance.
  • Can visitors swim near Griffin Falls?
    • Yes, the trail leads beyond the falls to a cliff face, where visitors can jump in and have a dip.

Griffin Falls, AL 35962

Map:


Plan Your Trip


Table of Contents: