Little River Canyon National Preserve: Alabama's Natural Wonder
Discover Alabama's Little River Canyon: A stunning preserve with scenic drives, hiking, waterfalls, and rich history on Lookout Mountain.
Little River Canyon National Preserve, located atop Lookout Mountain near Fort Payne, Alabama, protects one of the Southeast's deepest canyons and the unique Little River, which flows almost its entire length along a mountaintop [3, 6]. Established in 1992, the preserve offers stunning views, diverse recreational activities, and a rich cultural history [3, 4].
A brief summary to Little River Canyon National Preserve
- 4322 Little River Trail #100, Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, US
- +1256-845-9605
- Visit website
Local tips
- Stop by the Little River Canyon Center for maps, information, and to learn about park activities [6, 9].
- Drive the Little River Canyon Rim Parkway for stunning views of the canyon and waterfalls [6, 12].
- Canyon Mouth Park requires a fee for entry, but offers picnic areas, river access, and a playground [5, 12].
- Be cautious near the canyon rim and waterfalls, and stay on marked trails for safety [9, 21].
- Check the National Park Service website for current conditions, safety information, and alerts [12, 21].
Getting There
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Driving
The most direct route from Fort Payne, Alabama, to Little River Canyon National Preserve is via AL Highway 35 East [21]. Follow AL-35 E for approximately 10 miles. The Little River Canyon Center, which serves as the visitor center, will be on your left [6, 21]. From the Little River Canyon Center, Canyon Mouth Park is accessible by following AL-35 South to County Road 275, then turning left onto County Road 275 to reach the park entrance [21]. Be aware that there is a $15 per vehicle daily entrance fee or $35 annual pass required to enter Canyon Mouth Park [5, 21]. Parking is available at the main tourist areas [10].
Discover more about Little River Canyon National Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little River Falls Bridge Overlook
3.3 km
Witness the raw power and serene beauty of Little River Falls from this easily accessible overlook in Little River Canyon National Preserve.
Lookout Mountain Genetics
8.3 km
Explore the art of livestock genetics in Fort Payne, Alabama, where tradition meets innovation in animal husbandry.
Willstown Mission Cemetery
9.7 km
Explore the Willstown Mission Cemetery, a historical landmark in Fort Payne, Alabama, steeped in rich stories of early American settlers and their legacy.
Fort Payne Opera House
11.2 km
Discover the charm of Fort Payne Opera House, Alabama's oldest opera venue, where history and culture come alive through captivating performances.
Council Bluff School
19.7 km
Discover the Council Bluff School: A Historic Landmark Celebrating Alabama's Educational Heritage in Valley Head.
James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park
24.3 km
Discover the beauty of nature and outdoor adventure at James H. Sloppy Floyd State Park in Summerville, Georgia, a perfect getaway for all nature enthusiasts.
DeKalb County Public Lake
25.3 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities at DeKalb County Public Lake in Alabama, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Little River Canyon Falls Park
3.3 km
Discover the majestic Little River Canyon Falls in Alabama's Little River Canyon National Preserve, offering breathtaking views, hiking, and outdoor adventures in a stunning natural setting.
Little River Falls Observation Deck
3.3 km
Witness the breathtaking power of nature at Little River Falls Observation Deck in Little River Canyon National Preserve, Gaylesville, Alabama.
Little River Wildlife Preserve
3.4 km
Discover a peaceful retreat in Fort Payne, Alabama, with diverse wildlife and scenic hiking trails at Little River Wildlife Preserve.
Little River Falls Overlook
3.5 km
Witness the grandeur of Little River Falls from this easily accessible overlook, a gateway to the natural wonders of Little River Canyon.
Little River Canyon Kayak Put In
3.5 km
Launch your kayak into the scenic Little River Canyon, offering both tranquil paddling and challenging whitewater experiences in northeast Alabama.
Little River Canyon Center
3.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich natural history at Little River Canyon Center, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts in Alabama.
Little Falls
3.6 km
Discover Little Falls (Martha's Falls) in Fort Payne, Alabama: A natural swimming paradise within Little River Canyon National Preserve, offering scenic beauty and refreshing waters.
Lynn Overlook
4.5 km
Breathtaking panoramic views of Little River Canyon, Alabama's natural masterpiece, easily accessible from the scenic Rim Parkway.
Mushroom Rock
5.4 km
Discover the enchanting Mushroom Rock in Fort Payne, Alabama, a unique natural wonder perfect for exploration and photography amidst stunning landscapes.
Greg's Two Falls
7.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Greg's Two Falls near Fort Payne, Alabama. A short hike to cascading waterfalls in a lush forest setting.
Little River Canyon
7.9 km
Explore Alabama's Grand Canyon: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Scenic Views at Little River Canyon National Preserve.
Canyon View Overlook
7.9 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Little River Canyon, Alabama's own 'Grand Canyon,' from this easily accessible overlook.
Wolf Creek Overlook
8.1 km
Experience stunning vistas and serene landscapes at Wolf Creek Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Fort Payne, Alabama.
DeSoto State Park Cabin #6
8.8 km
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at DeSoto State Park: cozy cabins, cascading waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails await atop Lookout Mountain near Fort Payne.
Indian Falls
9.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Indian Falls in DeSoto State Park, a picturesque cascade easily accessible with scenic trails, perfect for a refreshing nature escape in northeast Alabama.
Essential places to dine
Wingstop
10.6 km
Savor deliciously crafted chicken wings at Wingstop in Fort Payne - a paradise for wing lovers with unique flavors and casual vibes.
Jack's
10.6 km
Experience authentic Southern fast food at Jack's in Fort Payne—where delicious breakfasts meet hearty hamburgers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Krystal
10.7 km
Experience the best of fast food at Krystal in Fort Payne—delicious burgers, chicken wings, and breakfast delights await you.
Barone's Pizza and Arcade
10.7 km
Discover delicious pizzas and endless fun at Barone's Pizza and Arcade in Fort Payne, AL - where family dining meets gaming excitement!
Arby's
10.7 km
Experience delicious fast food delights at Arby's in Fort Payne, where quick bites meet satisfying flavors.
Pizza Hut
10.7 km
Enjoy delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Fort Payne - the perfect spot for families seeking tasty American comfort food.
Little Caesars Pizza
11.6 km
Discover deliciously affordable pizza at Little Caesars Pizza in Fort Payne - perfect for travelers craving fast food delights.
Jefferson's
12.9 km
Experience mouthwatering chicken wings and juicy burgers at Jefferson's in Fort Payne—where American flavors come alive!
Santa Fe Cattle Company
13.6 km
Discover delicious steaks and BBQ delights at Santa Fe Cattle Company in Fort Payne - perfect for families and food lovers alike.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
13.8 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Fort Payne - where nostalgia meets delicious comfort food.
Tiger’s Inn
17.1 km
Experience authentic American dining at Tiger's Inn in Valley Head – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality.
Rib Shak
17.1 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Rib Shak in Valley Head—where smoky flavors meet heartfelt hospitality.
MI Pizza
17.1 km
Experience delicious homemade pizzas in Valley Head at MI Pizza – where quality meets affordability.
Subway
21.9 km
Discover fresh flavors at Subway in Cedar Bluff - where customization meets convenience in every bite.
Smorgasbord at The Cove
22.7 km
Discover delicious local cuisine at Smorgasbord at The Cove in Cedar Bluff – where flavors come alive in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery
3.7 km
Discover local flavors and convenience at Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery in Fort Payne, Alabama – a perfect stop for travelers and food lovers alike.
Hammers Department Store
11.3 km
Discover the charm of Hammers Department Store in Fort Payne, Alabama, where unique finds and unbeatable prices await every shopper.
Gaming Etc.
16.9 km
Discover Gaming Etc. in Fort Payne, Alabama - your ultimate destination for video games, comics, and collectibles in a vibrant community atmosphere.
Harton Nursery & Grocery Center
18.7 km
Discover fresh produce, vibrant plants, and local charm at Harton Nursery & Grocery Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a true hidden gem for travelers.
Global Electronics
20.3 km
Discover top-notch electronics and gadgets at Global Electronics in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, the ultimate destination for tech enthusiasts.
Missy's Fort Crowe Fireworks
21.0 km
Discover the ultimate fireworks destination at Missy's Fort Crowe Fireworks in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, offering a vast selection and exceptional service for all your celebration needs.
Donna’s bargain center
21.7 km
Explore unbeatable deals and hidden treasures at Donna’s Bargain Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - a shopper's paradise for every budget.
Country Store
21.9 km
Discover the Country Store in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - your go-to spot for convenience, local snacks, and friendly service on your travels.
Maria's Furniture
22.2 km
Explore a charming selection of Southern-style furniture and decor at Maria's Furniture in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for every home.
Piggly Wiggly
22.2 km
Experience southern hospitality and local flavors at Piggly Wiggly, Cedar Bluff's favorite grocery store with fresh produce and quality products.
Kellz Designz
22.2 km
Discover your creativity at Kellz Designz, Cedar Bluff's premier custom t-shirt store, where every design tells your story.
Weiss Mart Marina
22.2 km
Experience the charm of Weiss Mart Marina in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a perfect blend of convenience, recreation, and scenic beauty.
The Rock
25.0 km
Discover local flavors and warm hospitality at The Rock grocery store in Sand Rock, Alabama, a perfect stop for travelers seeking authentic regional products.
The Secret Bed and Breakfast Lodge
27.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and Southern hospitality at The Secret Bed and Breakfast Lodge in Leesburg, Alabama.
Rise Boutique
27.8 km
Explore the best of women's fashion at Rise Boutique in Leesburg, Alabama, where style meets comfort and local charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black's Karaoke
16.9 km
Experience the joy of singing at Black's Karaoke in Gaylesville, Alabama, where every night is a celebration of music and camaraderie.
Canyon Drive Burger Shack
17.2 km
Discover delicious, budget-friendly burgers at Canyon Drive Burger Shack in the heart of Gaylesville, Alabama - a tasty stop for every traveler.
Little River Marina & Lodge
20.6 km
Discover the charm of Little River Marina & Lodge in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—your ultimate destination for outdoor adventures and lakeside relaxation.
KT Pho Asian Restaurant - Cedar Bluff, AL
21.7 km
Discover the vibrant and authentic flavors of Asian cuisine at KT Pho Asian Restaurant in Cedar Bluff, AL.
The Burger Shack
21.8 km
Experience the ultimate burger bliss at The Burger Shack, Cedar Bluff's top destination for delicious American fast food and cozy dining.
La Cabaña
21.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Cabaña, Cedar Bluff's premier destination for authentic Latin American cuisine.
The Big Chill
22.0 km
Discover the sweet delights of The Big Chill in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, where every scoop of ice cream is a taste of happiness.
Tony's Pizza & Subs
22.1 km
Discover Cedar Bluff's cherished Tony's Pizza & Subs, where delicious pizza and subs await in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
WEISS LAKE MOTEL
22.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Weiss Lake at Weiss Lake Motel, your cozy retreat in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground
22.8 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground, where adventure and relaxation await in beautiful Alabama.
StateLine Tavern & Grill
23.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance at StateLine Tavern & Grill, where delicious food, karaoke, and live music await in Rome, Georgia.
Whistle Stop Cafe'
29.5 km
Experience the heart of Southern cuisine at Whistle Stop Cafe, where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality in Centre, Alabama.
La Marina
29.9 km
Discover La Marina in Leesburg, Alabama, where authentic Mexican cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for food lovers of all kinds.
Guppy's Seafood
30.2 km
Savor the taste of the sea at Guppy's Seafood in Centre, Alabama, where fresh ingredients meet Southern hospitality.
Kloe’s
31.0 km
Savor the flavors of Southern comfort food at Kloe's, a cozy restaurant in Centre, Alabama, known for its hearty dishes and warm hospitality.
