Little River Canyon National Preserve: A Mountain Top Oasis

Little River Canyon National Preserve, nestled atop Lookout Mountain near Fort Payne, Alabama, protects a remarkable landscape sculpted by the Little River [4]. Established in 1992, the 15,288-acre preserve showcases one of the deepest canyons in the Southeast, carved over eons by a river that uniquely flows almost its entire length atop a mountain [4, 7, 15]. The preserve offers a diverse range of activities. Visitors can explore the 23-mile scenic drive along the Little River Canyon Rim Parkway (AL 176), stopping at overlooks like Canyon View and Crow Point to gaze at the towering sandstone cliffs and waterfalls [4, 5, 8]. Hiking trails cater to all skill levels, from the easy Path to Learning Trail to the more strenuous Eberhart Trail leading to the canyon floor [3, 5, 14]. The preserve is divided into three main areas: the canyon itself, the backcountry with its dirt roads perfect for horseback riding, and Canyon Mouth Park, offering picnic facilities and river access [10, 13]. Little River Canyon's history stretches back to Native American populations and includes a minor Civil War skirmish [4, 7]. The area was once known as "May's Gulf" and later became part of DeSoto State Park before becoming a National Preserve [4, 15]. Today, the preserve offers a sanctuary for recreation and appreciation of the natural world, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife spotting [7, 8, 9]. Keep an eye out for the carnivorous green pitcher plant and the Harperella riverbed plant, as well as diverse wildlife including bald eagles, black bears and snakes [8]. Visitors can start their exploration at the Little River Canyon Center, which provides information, maps, and exhibits [8, 10, 13]. The preserve is open year-round during daylight hours, offering unique seasonal views and experiences [8, 19].