Little River Canyon National Preserve: A Natural Wonder
Explore Alabama's natural beauty: Hiking, waterfalls, and stunning canyon views await at Little River Canyon National Preserve on Lookout Mountain.
Little River Canyon National Preserve, a 15,288-acre sanctuary in northeast Alabama, invites visitors to explore a unique landscape sculpted over eons [7, 12]. The Little River, remarkably flowing almost its entire length atop Lookout Mountain, has carved one of the Southeast's deepest canyons, showcasing sandstone cliffs that tower up to 600 feet [3, 7]. The preserve is divided into three distinct areas: the Backcountry, offering rugged dirt roads perfect for horseback riding and hiking; the Scenic Drive along Canyon Rim Parkway (AL 176), boasting eight overlooks with breathtaking canyon views; and the Canyon Mouth Picnic Area, providing river access and recreational facilities [3]. Visitors can delve into the area's history at the Little River Canyon Center, operated by Jacksonville State University, which features exhibits, a gift shop, and trail access [3, 10, 21]. The preserve also bears the marks of the past, serving as a passage along the Trail of Tears, a somber reminder of the forced removal of Cherokee and Muscogee (Creek) Indians [15, 19]. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a haven for activities such as hiking, swimming, fishing, climbing, and whitewater paddling [3]. Numerous trails cater to all skill levels, from the easy Path to Learning Trail to the strenuous Eberhart Trail leading to the canyon floor [6]. The preserve's diverse landscape, from forested uplands to cascading waterfalls, promises an unforgettable experience in the Southern Appalachians [2, 16].
Local tips
- Stop by the Little River Canyon Center for maps, information, and to learn about park programs before exploring the preserve [3, 10].
- Take the scenic Canyon Rim Drive (AL 176) for stunning overlooks of the canyon, waterfalls, and rock formations [3, 16].
- Hike the Eberhart Trail for a challenging descent to the canyon floor and access to the Little River [3, 6].
- Visit Canyon Mouth Park for river access, picnicking, and a gentle hike along the Little River; note that there is a $15 per vehicle fee [3, 16, 22].
- Be cautious near Little River Falls and the canyon rim, and avoid cliff jumping or straying off marked trails due to safety concerns [21].
A brief summary to Little River Canyon National Preserve
- 4322 Little River Trail #100, Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, US
- +1256-845-9605
- Visit website
Getting There
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Driving
From Fort Payne, AL, head north on AL-35 N. Travel approximately 7 miles. The Little River Canyon Center will be on your left at 4322 Little River Trail NE. This center serves as a great starting point for your visit, providing maps and information about the preserve [3, 10]. Parking is available at the center.
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Public Transport
DeKalb County Rural Public Transportation (ALTRANS) provides public transportation to all ages in DeKalb County, including Fort Payne [11, 14]. Contact them at least 24 hours in advance to reserve a ride to the Little River Canyon Center [11]. This service is free as funds allow [11]. From the Little River Canyon Center, you can access the preserve's trails and scenic drives.
Attractions Nearby to Little River Canyon National Preserve
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Little River Canyon Falls Park
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Little River Falls Observation Deck
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Little River Wildlife Preserve
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Little River Falls Overlook
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Little River Canyon Kayak Put In
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Little River Canyon Center
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Little Falls
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Lynn Overlook
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Mushroom Rock
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Greg's Two Falls
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Little River Canyon
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Canyon View Overlook
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Wolf Creek Overlook
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DeSoto State Park Cabin #6
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Indian Falls
