Dismals Canyon: A Bioluminescent Wonderland
Explore a hidden world of ancient forests, stunning rock formations, and bioluminescent wonders in the heart of Northwest Alabama's Dismals Canyon.
Discover Dismals Canyon, an 85-acre National Natural Landmark in Northwest Alabama, where you can explore a stunning sandstone gorge, hike among ancient trees, and witness the magical glow of the Dismalites, bioluminescent insects unique to only a few places on Earth [2, 3, 5, 7].
A brief summary to Dismals Canyon
- 901 County Rd 8, Phil Campbell, Alabama, 35581, US
- +1205-993-4559
- Visit website
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 10 am-7 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain, as the trail can be rocky and involve some steps [2, 8, 10].
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp for night tours to better navigate the trail and enhance your viewing of the Dismalites [8, 10].
- Reservations for night tours are highly recommended, especially during peak season (April-May & September-October), as they often sell out [8, 11].
- Check the Dismals Canyon website for seasonal hours of operation and special events before planning your visit [2, 10].
- Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds, as the parking lot can be limited [4, 10, 11].
Getting There
-
Driving
Dismals Canyon is located at 901 County Road 8, Phil Campbell, AL 35581 [6]. From Russellville, Alabama, take US-43/AL-17 south towards Hamilton for approximately 12 miles [2]. Turn onto County Road 8 and follow the signs to Dismals Canyon. Parking is free, but can be limited, especially during peak season [11]. Expect to possibly park along the road outside the main parking area [10, 11]. There are no fees for parking [11].
Discover more about Dismals Canyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Freeman House
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Explore the Historic Freeman House in Tuscumbia, Alabama - a captivating landmark showcasing rich history and architectural beauty.
Cheatham Road Historical Marker
41.8 km
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Tuscumbia Historic District
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Tuscumbia Landing
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Fame Recording Studios
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Freedom Hills Overlook
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Enjoy panoramic views from the highest point on the Natchez Trace Parkway in Alabama. A short, scenic hike with rewarding vistas.
Sheffield Downtown Commercial Historic District
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Sougahoagdee Falls Parking
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Old Stone Bridge
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Muscle Shoals Sound Studios
50.1 km
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Sheffield Standpipe
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Old Railroad Bridge Historic Marker
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Old Railroad Bridge
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McFarland Park
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McFarland Lighthouse
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bear Creek Canoe Run
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Lower Factory Falls
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Twin Forks Campgrounds, Bear Creek, Alabama
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Willow Oak Lodge
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Williams Hollow Campground
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Sloss Lake Park
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Rocky Ravine Park
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Elliott Branch
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Hurricane Creek Lodge
24.9 km
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KinlockShelter
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Trailhead for Parker Falls
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Black Warrior Wildlife Management Area
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Thompson Trailhead
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Randolph Trail Head Parking, Bankhead National Forest
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Eye of the Needle / Ship Rock
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Essential places to dine
Jack's
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Lakeshore Inn Restaurant
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Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant
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Viva La Casita
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Inez's Drive Inn
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Hardins Country Store & Restaurant
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Tin Top Grill LLC
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Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings
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The Grille at Trident Marina
74.4 km
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Logan's Roadhouse
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Applebee's Grill + Bar
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Chick-fil-A
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L Patron Mexican Grill and Cantina
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Chili's Grill & Bar
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Chow King Grill & Buffet
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shell
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Bikes & Bullets
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Chevron
7.5 km
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Valley Lumber Co Inc
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Consolidated Forest Products
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Mill Creek Lumber Products Inc.
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Unique Apparel
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Mays Wholesale Flowers
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Goar's Supermarket
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Haley House
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The Darling Daisy
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Farmers Home Furniture | Haleyville, AL
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PARKVIEW CABINETS
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Elliott True Value
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Jolly Dans Hardware & General Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Backwoods Grill
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ICEE E's Sno Biz
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El Fogon Hackleburg
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Rowdy Hogs Smoke House and Grill
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Phil Campbell Nutrition
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Serendipity 35564
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Faelynn's Place
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Homestead Cafe
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Swisher hotdogs
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B and J Cafe
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Rancho Mexican Restaurant
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El Paso Bar & Grill
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13 Grill
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Restaurante Guatemex
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Haleyville Sno Biz
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