DeSoto State Park: A Lookout Mountain Gem
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at DeSoto State Park: hiking, waterfalls, historic sites, and stunning views atop Lookout Mountain.
Nestled atop Lookout Mountain in northeastern Alabama, DeSoto State Park offers a diverse landscape of forests, waterfalls, and rugged terrain. Established in 1935, the park provides a range of recreational activities and stunning vistas, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to DeSoto State Park
- 7104 Desoto Pkwy NE, Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, US
- +1256-845-0051
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-9 pm
- Thursday 9 am-9 pm
- Friday 9 am-9 pm
- Saturday 9 am-9 pm
- Sunday 9 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Check the park's event calendar for workshops, guided hikes, and other activities.
- Visit DeSoto Falls, located a short drive from the main park area.
- Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the park's trails.
- Be aware that GPS directions to the park may not be reliable; follow written directions instead [8, 12, 19].
- Consider visiting during the off-season for pleasant weather and fewer crowds [19].
Getting There
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Driving
DeSoto State Park is located off of DeSoto Parkway NE, approximately 8 miles northeast of Fort Payne, Alabama [2, 7, 8, 12]. From Fort Payne, follow AL-35 N/Lookout Mountain Parkway, then turn onto County Road 89 and follow the signs to the park [8, 12]. Parking is available at the main entrance, near the swimming pool, and at various trailheads [3, 7]. A day-use fee of $2 per vehicle is collected at honor boxes in the parking area [3, 18].
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Walking
Once inside DeSoto State Park, many attractions are accessible by foot. The Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail is located near the Country Store and Information Center, providing an easy walk to Azalea Cascade [4, 6, 7, 11, 14, 18]. From the Country Store, follow the signs to the various trailheads and points of interest within the park [4, 7]. Be sure to consult a trail map to plan your route [4].
Discover more about DeSoto State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Willstown Mission Cemetery
5.5 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
10.3 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
10.5 km
Discover the Council Bluff School: A Historic Landmark Celebrating Alabama's Educational Heritage in Valley Head.
Lookout Mountain Genetics
11.2 km
Explore the art of livestock genetics in Fort Payne, Alabama, where tradition meets innovation in animal husbandry.
Little River Falls Bridge Overlook
11.2 km
Witness the raw power and serene beauty of Little River Falls from this easily accessible overlook in Little River Canyon National Preserve.
DeKalb County Public Lake
18.0 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities at DeKalb County Public Lake in Alabama, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park
27.4 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures at DeSoto Falls State Park
0.9 km
Experience the thrill of ziplining through the trees at DeSoto Falls State Park with Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures. Breathtaking views and unforgettable fun!
DeSoto State Park Cabin #6
1.0 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
1.0 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.
Civilian Conservation Corps Museum
1.5 km
Discover the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps and its impact on DeSoto State Park.
Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort
4.8 km
Alabama's only ski resort offering year-round recreation with skiing in winter and golf in warmer months, nestled in the scenic Appalachian foothills.
Little River Wildlife Preserve
6.1 km
Discover a peaceful retreat in Fort Payne, Alabama, with diverse wildlife and scenic hiking trails at Little River Wildlife Preserve.
A. A. Miller Dam
6.7 km
Discover the historic A. A. Miller Dam near DeSoto Falls, a scenic gateway to hiking trails and natural beauty in Northeast Alabama.
DeSoto Falls
6.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of DeSoto Falls in Alabama's DeSoto State Park. A majestic 104-foot waterfall and natural wonder.
DeSoto Falls Trailhead
6.7 km
Discover the majestic DeSoto Falls in Mentone, Alabama: hiking, scenic views, and natural beauty in the heart of DeSoto State Park.
DeSoto Falls Picnic Area
6.7 km
Discover the majestic DeSoto Falls near Mentone, Alabama, a historic and scenic destination offering hiking, picnicking, and natural beauty within DeSoto State Park's captivating landscape.
Desoto Falls Picnic Area-DeSoto State Park
6.7 km
Discover the beauty and history of DeSoto Falls, one of Alabama's tallest waterfalls, nestled in the scenic DeSoto State Park.
Little River Canyon National Preserve
9.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Little River Canyon National Preserve in Alabama, a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Fort Payne Depot Museum
10.2 km
Step back in time at the Fort Payne Depot Museum, exploring railroad history, Native American artifacts, and local heritage in a stunning 1891 depot.
Brow Park
10.2 km
Breathtaking Lookout Mountain views in Mentone, Alabama. Perfect for picnics and sunset gazing over the valley.
Fort Payne Hosiery Museum
10.2 km
Step back in time at the Fort Payne Hosiery Museum and discover the city's surprising reign as the 'Sock Capital of the World'.
Essential places to dine
Wingstop
7.4 km
Savor deliciously crafted chicken wings at Wingstop in Fort Payne - a paradise for wing lovers with unique flavors and casual vibes.
Pizza Hut
7.4 km
Enjoy delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Fort Payne - the perfect spot for families seeking tasty American comfort food.
Arby's
7.4 km
Experience delicious fast food delights at Arby's in Fort Payne, where quick bites meet satisfying flavors.
Jack's
7.5 km
Experience authentic Southern fast food at Jack's in Fort Payne—where delicious breakfasts meet hearty hamburgers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Krystal
7.6 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
7.9 km
Discover delicious pizzas and endless fun at Barone's Pizza and Arcade in Fort Payne, AL - where family dining meets gaming excitement!
Tiger’s Inn
8.1 km
Experience authentic American dining at Tiger's Inn in Valley Head – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality.
Rib Shak
8.1 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Rib Shak in Valley Head—where smoky flavors meet heartfelt hospitality.
MI Pizza
8.2 km
Experience delicious homemade pizzas in Valley Head at MI Pizza – where quality meets affordability.
Little Caesars Pizza
11.3 km
Discover deliciously affordable pizza at Little Caesars Pizza in Fort Payne - perfect for travelers craving fast food delights.
Jefferson's
12.4 km
Experience mouthwatering chicken wings and juicy burgers at Jefferson's in Fort Payne—where American flavors come alive!
Santa Fe Cattle Company
12.8 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
12.9 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Fort Payne - where nostalgia meets delicious comfort food.
Subway
31.0 km
Discover fresh flavors at Subway in Cedar Bluff - where customization meets convenience in every bite.
Smorgasbord at The Cove
31.9 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
Hammers Department Store
10.4 km
Discover the charm of Hammers Department Store in Fort Payne, Alabama, where unique finds and unbeatable prices await every shopper.
Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery
11.1 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.
Gaming Etc.
15.1 km
Discover Gaming Etc. in Fort Payne, Alabama - your ultimate destination for video games, comics, and collectibles in a vibrant community atmosphere.
Cupboard Antiques
26.0 km
Explore Cupboard Antiques in Fyffe, AL for a captivating collection of vintage treasures and unique home decor that tells a story.
The Cupboard LLC
26.0 km
Explore The Cupboard LLC in Fyffe, AL, a unique consignment shop filled with eclectic treasures and friendly service, perfect for every treasure hunter.
Harton Nursery & Grocery Center
27.7 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
29.3 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
30.3 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
30.6 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
31.1 km
Discover the Country Store in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - your go-to spot for convenience, local snacks, and friendly service on your travels.
Kellz Designz
31.2 km
Discover your creativity at Kellz Designz, Cedar Bluff's premier custom t-shirt store, where every design tells your story.
Weiss Mart Marina
31.2 km
Experience the charm of Weiss Mart Marina in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a perfect blend of convenience, recreation, and scenic beauty.
Maria's Furniture
31.2 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
31.2 km
Experience southern hospitality and local flavors at Piggly Wiggly, Cedar Bluff's favorite grocery store with fresh produce and quality products.
The Rock
31.5 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Applebee's Grill + Bar
13.1 km
Experience classic American dining at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Fort Payne, where comfort food and a warm atmosphere await you.
Black's Karaoke
26.2 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
26.4 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
29.2 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
30.7 km
Discover the vibrant and authentic flavors of Asian cuisine at KT Pho Asian Restaurant in Cedar Bluff, AL.
The Burger Shack
30.8 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
30.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Cabaña, Cedar Bluff's premier destination for authentic Latin American cuisine.
The Big Chill
31.0 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
31.2 km
Discover Cedar Bluff's cherished Tony's Pizza & Subs, where delicious pizza and subs await in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
WEISS LAKE MOTEL
31.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Weiss Lake at Weiss Lake Motel, your cozy retreat in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
StateLine Tavern & Grill
31.7 km
Discover the lively ambiance at StateLine Tavern & Grill, where delicious food, karaoke, and live music await in Rome, Georgia.
The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground
32.0 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground, where adventure and relaxation await in beautiful Alabama.
La Marina
37.1 km
Discover La Marina in Leesburg, Alabama, where authentic Mexican cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for food lovers of all kinds.
Whistle Stop Cafe'
37.9 km
Experience the heart of Southern cuisine at Whistle Stop Cafe, where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality in Centre, Alabama.
Guppy's Seafood
38.3 km
Savor the taste of the sea at Guppy's Seafood in Centre, Alabama, where fresh ingredients meet Southern hospitality.
