Martha's Falls (Little Falls): A Swimming Hole Gem in Little River Canyon
Discover Martha's Falls (Little Falls) in Fort Payne, AL: A scenic swimming hole in Little River Canyon National Preserve, perfect for a refreshing escape.
Martha's Falls, formerly known as Little Falls, is a popular swimming spot within Little River Canyon National Preserve. This wide, low waterfall offers a refreshing escape during warm months, with access via a scenic trail from Little River Falls. Known locally as "Hippie Hole," it's a favorite for its accessible beauty and cool waters.
A brief summary to Little Falls
- AL-35, Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, US
- +1256-845-9605
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid the crowds, as Martha's Falls is a popular spot, especially on weekends and during the summer.
- Wear appropriate footwear for the hike down to the falls, as the trail can be rocky and slippery, especially near the water.
- Check the water conditions before swimming, as the current can be strong, especially after heavy rainfall.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as there is limited shade along the trail and at the falls.
Getting There
-
Driving
To reach Martha's Falls, start from Fort Payne, AL. Head north on AL-35. Continue on AL-35 for approximately 7 miles. Look for the Little River Falls parking area on your right, just past the intersection with AL-176 (the scenic drive). Park here. From the parking area, the Little Falls Trail is a 0.75-mile hike to the falls.
-
Walking
From the Little River Falls parking area, locate the Little Falls Trail at the south end of the parking lot. Follow the trail for approximately 0.75 miles. The trail descends into the canyon, with the final section involving 137 stone steps. Exercise caution on the steps, as they can be uneven. The trail leads directly to Martha's Falls.
Discover more about Little Falls
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little River Falls Bridge Overlook
1.1 km
Witness the majestic Little River Falls from an easily accessible overlook, marking the start of the Little River Canyon in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Lookout Mountain Genetics
7.2 km
Explore the art of livestock genetics in Fort Payne, Alabama, where tradition meets innovation in animal husbandry.
Fort Payne Opera House
11.1 km
Experience history and culture at Alabama's oldest continuously operating theater, the beautifully restored Fort Payne Opera House.
Willstown Mission Cemetery
11.2 km
Discover the rich history of Fort Payne, Alabama at the Willstown Mission Cemetery, a serene historical landmark steeped in heritage.
Council Bluff School
22.3 km
Discover Alabama's rural educational heritage at the Council Bluff School, the last one-room schoolhouse in DeKalb County.
James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park
26.4 km
Discover a peaceful retreat in northwest Georgia with fishing, hiking, and scenic beauty at James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park.
DeKalb County Public Lake
26.6 km
Escape to DeKalb County Public Lake for a day of fishing and family fun in a beautiful Sand Mountain setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Little River Canyon Kayak Put In
0.6 km
Launch your kayak into the heart of Little River Canyon, where thrilling whitewater and stunning scenery await experienced paddlers.
Little River Falls Overlook
0.6 km
Experience the majesty of Little River Falls Overlook in Alabama's Little River Canyon National Preserve: breathtaking views, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures await in this natural paradise.
Lynn Overlook
0.9 km
Experience panoramic views of Little River Canyon from this scenic overlook, a natural haven near Fort Payne, Alabama, along the Rim Parkway.
Little River Canyon Falls Park
1.0 km
Discover the beauty of Little River Canyon Falls Park in Fort Payne, Alabama. Explore scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and a stunning 45-foot waterfall.
Little River Falls Observation Deck
1.0 km
Witness the raw beauty of Little River Falls from an easily accessible observation deck. A must-see natural landmark in Alabama's Little River Canyon.
Little River Canyon Center
1.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich natural history at Little River Canyon Center, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts in Alabama.
Mushroom Rock
1.8 km
Discover the enchanting Mushroom Rock in Fort Payne, Alabama, a unique natural wonder perfect for exploration and photography amidst stunning landscapes.
Little River Canyon National Preserve
3.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Little River Canyon National Preserve in Alabama, a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Greg's Two Falls
4.4 km
Discover the beauty of Greg's Two Falls near Fort Payne, Alabama, a perfect natural escape in the Appalachian foothills.
Little River Canyon
4.5 km
Discover Alabama's deepest canyon: breathtaking views, hiking trails, and the unique Little River flowing atop Lookout Mountain.
Canyon View Overlook
4.5 km
Experience the grandeur of Little River Canyon at Canyon View Overlook, a scenic spot offering breathtaking views and a connection with nature in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Wolf Creek Overlook
4.7 km
Experience stunning vistas and serene landscapes at Wolf Creek Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Crow Point Overlook
6.1 km
Explore the stunning Crow Point Overlook in Alabama’s Little River Canyon National Preserve, where breathtaking scenery meets serene nature.
Graces High Falls
6.3 km
Explore Graces High Falls, a breathtaking scenic spot in Alabama's Little River Canyon, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Eberhart Point Overlook
6.4 km
Discover breathtaking views at Eberhart Point Overlook in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, the ultimate scenic escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Essential places to dine
Little Caesars Pizza
11.1 km
Discover deliciously affordable pizza at Little Caesars Pizza in Fort Payne - perfect for travelers craving fast food delights.
Barone's Pizza and Arcade
11.4 km
Discover delicious pizzas and endless fun at Barone's Pizza and Arcade in Fort Payne, AL - where family dining meets gaming excitement!
Krystal
11.4 km
Experience the best of fast food at Krystal in Fort Payne—delicious burgers, chicken wings, and breakfast delights await you.
Jack's
11.5 km
Experience authentic Southern fast food at Jack's in Fort Payne—where delicious breakfasts meet hearty hamburgers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wingstop
11.5 km
Savor deliciously crafted chicken wings at Wingstop in Fort Payne - a paradise for wing lovers with unique flavors and casual vibes.
Arby's
11.5 km
Experience delicious fast food delights at Arby's in Fort Payne, where quick bites meet satisfying flavors.
Pizza Hut
11.6 km
Enjoy delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Fort Payne - the perfect spot for families seeking tasty American comfort food.
Jefferson's
12.2 km
Experience mouthwatering chicken wings and juicy burgers at Jefferson's in Fort Payne—where American flavors come alive!
Santa Fe Cattle Company
13.0 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
13.2 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Fort Payne - where nostalgia meets delicious comfort food.
Subway
18.8 km
Discover fresh flavors at Subway in Cedar Bluff - where customization meets convenience in every bite.
Smorgasbord at The Cove
20.0 km
Discover delicious local cuisine at Smorgasbord at The Cove in Cedar Bluff – where flavors come alive in every bite.
Tiger’s Inn
20.2 km
Experience authentic American dining at Tiger's Inn in Valley Head – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality.
Rib Shak
20.2 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Rib Shak in Valley Head—where smoky flavors meet heartfelt hospitality.
MI Pizza
20.3 km
Experience delicious homemade pizzas in Valley Head at MI Pizza – where quality meets affordability.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery
1.8 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
11.1 km
Discover the charm of Hammers Department Store in Fort Payne, Alabama, where unique finds and unbeatable prices await every shopper.
Harton Nursery & Grocery Center
15.6 km
Discover fresh produce, vibrant plants, and local charm at Harton Nursery & Grocery Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a true hidden gem for travelers.
Gaming Etc.
16.3 km
Discover Gaming Etc. in Fort Payne, Alabama - your ultimate destination for video games, comics, and collectibles in a vibrant community atmosphere.
Global Electronics
17.1 km
Discover top-notch electronics and gadgets at Global Electronics in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, the ultimate destination for tech enthusiasts.
Donna’s bargain center
18.5 km
Explore unbeatable deals and hidden treasures at Donna’s Bargain Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - a shopper's paradise for every budget.
Missy's Fort Crowe Fireworks
18.6 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.
Kellz Designz
19.0 km
Discover your creativity at Kellz Designz, Cedar Bluff's premier custom t-shirt store, where every design tells your story.
Weiss Mart Marina
19.0 km
Experience the charm of Weiss Mart Marina in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a perfect blend of convenience, recreation, and scenic beauty.
Maria's Furniture
19.0 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
19.0 km
Experience southern hospitality and local flavors at Piggly Wiggly, Cedar Bluff's favorite grocery store with fresh produce and quality products.
Country Store
19.1 km
Discover the Country Store in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - your go-to spot for convenience, local snacks, and friendly service on your travels.
The Rock
21.4 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
24.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and Southern hospitality at The Secret Bed and Breakfast Lodge in Leesburg, Alabama.
Rise Boutique
24.2 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
14.5 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
14.6 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
17.2 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
18.5 km
Discover the vibrant and authentic flavors of Asian cuisine at KT Pho Asian Restaurant in Cedar Bluff, AL.
The Burger Shack
18.7 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
18.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Cabaña, Cedar Bluff's premier destination for authentic Latin American cuisine.
The Big Chill
18.8 km
Discover the sweet delights of The Big Chill in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, where every scoop of ice cream is a taste of happiness.
WEISS LAKE MOTEL
19.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Weiss Lake at Weiss Lake Motel, your cozy retreat in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Tony's Pizza & Subs
19.0 km
Discover Cedar Bluff's cherished Tony's Pizza & Subs, where delicious pizza and subs await in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground
20.1 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
21.7 km
Discover the lively ambiance at StateLine Tavern & Grill, where delicious food, karaoke, and live music await in Rome, Georgia.
Whistle Stop Cafe'
26.0 km
Experience the heart of Southern cuisine at Whistle Stop Cafe, where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality in Centre, Alabama.
La Marina
26.3 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
26.6 km
Savor the taste of the sea at Guppy's Seafood in Centre, Alabama, where fresh ingredients meet Southern hospitality.
Kloe’s
28.0 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.
