Background

DeSoto Falls Picnic Area: Alabama's Majestic Waterfall Escape

Discover Alabama's natural beauty at DeSoto Falls Picnic Area: Majestic waterfalls, scenic trails, and historical charm await!

4.8

DeSoto Falls Picnic Area, near Mentone, Alabama, offers stunning views of DeSoto Falls, one of the state's tallest waterfalls, plunging 104 feet into a canyon [1]. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, swimming, and exploring the area's rich history and natural beauty [1, 2].

A brief summary to DeSoto Falls Picnic Area

  • Monday 6 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-7 pm
  • Friday 6 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is limited and the picnic area fills up quickly [2, 4].
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, especially if you plan to descend the stairs to the lower falls overlook [4].
  • Bring your own small watercraft such as kayaks or canoes to enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing in the West Fork of Little River [2].
  • Be aware that cell service can be spotty in the area, and GPS directions may be unreliable [2].
  • Visit during the winter or early spring for the most impressive waterfall views due to higher water levels [2].
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Mentone, Alabama, head north on Highway 117, then turn right onto County Road 89. Continue for approximately 3.5 miles, then turn right at the 4-way stop. Drive one mile to the DeSoto Falls Picnic Area [4]. Parking at the picnic area costs $4 per vehicle [1, 2].

  • Walking

    From the main DeSoto State Park, locate the nearest trailhead and follow the designated walking trails towards the DeSoto Falls Picnic Area, approximately a 1-mile hike [8]. Note that the trails from the DeSoto Falls Trailhead are considered moderate to strenuous [4]. There is a $4 fee per vehicle to park at the picnic area [1, 2].

Unlock the Best of DeSoto Falls Picnic Area

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about DeSoto Falls Picnic Area

DeSoto Falls Picnic Area, a part of DeSoto State Park but located seven miles north of the main park area, is a captivating destination centered around DeSoto Falls, one of Alabama's most impressive waterfalls [1, 2]. Named after Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, who is believed to have traveled through the area in 1538, the falls have a rich history and have drawn visitors for centuries [1, 2, 7, 11]. The 104-foot waterfall cascades into the West Fork Little River, creating a scenic canyon [1]. The flow of water varies with rainfall, with the falls being most voluminous in winter and spring [2]. A dam, built in 1925 to generate electricity for nearby towns, sits atop the falls, adding to the area's historical significance [1, 12]. Visitors can access the upper falls and the A.A. Miller Dam area with ease [2]. To reach the main waterfall overlook, a paved path leads from the parking lot down approximately 50 concrete steps [2, 4]. The picnic area provides amenities such as picnic tables, grills, and restrooms [2, 4]. A boat ramp offers access to the West Fork of Little River for activities like swimming, boating, and fishing with small watercraft [2]. Hiking trails cater to various skill levels, with the Overlook Trail providing a moderate walk to stunning views [1]. Limited parking is available, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended [2, 4]. The area's natural beauty, combined with its historical context and recreational opportunities, makes DeSoto Falls Picnic Area a memorable destination in northeastern Alabama [1, 2].

Popular Experiences near DeSoto Falls Picnic Area

Popular Hotels near DeSoto Falls Picnic Area

Select Currency