DeSoto Falls Picnic Area: Alabama's Natural Masterpiece
Experience the beauty and history of DeSoto Falls, one of Alabama's tallest waterfalls, with hiking, picnicking, and water activities in a scenic state park.
Nestled in DeSoto State Park near Mentone, Alabama, DeSoto Falls Picnic Area offers stunning views of one of Alabama's tallest and most visited waterfalls. Named after Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, the 104-foot falls cascade into the West Fork of Little River, creating a picturesque canyon. The area provides picnic facilities, hiking trails, and access to the river for boating and swimming.
A brief summary to DeSoto Falls Picnic Area
- Mentone, Alabama, 35984, US
- +1256-845-0051
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during winter or early spring for the highest water levels and most dramatic waterfall views.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is limited and the picnic area can fill up quickly.
- Bring your own small watercraft to enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing in the West Fork of Little River.
- Be aware that cell service can be spotty in the area, so GPS directions may be unreliable.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Mentone, Alabama, head north on AL-117 N/Lookout Mountain Parkway. Continue to follow Lookout Mountain Parkway. The DeSoto Falls Picnic Area will be on your left. Note that parking is limited, especially on weekends. Parking fee is $4.00 per vehicle.
-
Walking
If you are near the Lazy River Cottage, you can walk into the state park for free. From the parking area, follow the concrete path to the staircase that leads to the rock ledge at the edge of the falls. Follow the black handrail to a narrow path for a view of the pool at the base of the falls.
Discover more about DeSoto Falls Picnic Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Council Bluff School
8.4 km
Discover Alabama's rural educational heritage at the Council Bluff School, the last one-room schoolhouse in DeKalb County.
Willstown Mission Cemetery
11.7 km
Discover the rich history of Fort Payne, Alabama at the Willstown Mission Cemetery, a serene historical landmark steeped in heritage.
Fort Payne Hosiery Museum
16.6 km
Step back in time at the Fort Payne Hosiery Museum, exploring the city's rich textile history as the 'Sock Capital of the World'.
Fort Payne Opera House
16.6 km
Experience history and culture at Alabama's oldest continuously operating theater, the beautifully restored Fort Payne Opera House.
Little River Falls Bridge Overlook
17.4 km
Witness the majestic Little River Falls from an easily accessible overlook, marking the start of the Little River Canyon in Fort Payne, Alabama.
DeKalb County Public Lake
19.3 km
Escape to DeKalb County Public Lake for a day of fishing and family fun in a beautiful Sand Mountain setting.
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.
Gorham's bluff
30.6 km
Discover history and scenic beauty at Gorham's Bluff in Pisgah, Alabama, offering panoramic views and a tranquil community experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
DeSoto Falls Picnic Area
0.0 km
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at DeSoto Falls Picnic Area: Majestic waterfalls, scenic trails, and historical charm await!
DeSoto Falls
0.1 km
Discover the beauty of DeSoto Falls, one of Alabama's tallest waterfalls, offering hiking, history, and stunning views.
A. A. Miller Dam
0.1 km
Discover the historic A. A. Miller Dam near DeSoto Falls, a scenic gateway to hiking trails, natural beauty, and a glimpse into Alabama's pioneering past.
DeSoto Falls Trailhead
0.6 km
Explore Alabama's natural beauty at DeSoto Falls, where history and stunning scenery combine for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort
2.0 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.
Brow Park
3.8 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from atop Lookout Mountain at Brow Park, a scenic overlook perfect for picnics and sunsets.
Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures at DeSoto Falls State Park
6.0 km
Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the forest canopy at DeSoto Falls State Park, with stunning views and exciting aerial adventures.
Indian Falls
6.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Indian Falls, a hidden gem within DeSoto State Park, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
DeSoto State Park Cabin #6
6.6 km
Experience rustic comfort in DeSoto State Park's Cabin #6: Hike, explore, and unwind amidst the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain.
Civilian Conservation Corps Museum
6.7 km
Discover the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps and its impact on DeSoto State Park.
DeSoto State Park
6.7 km
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at DeSoto State Park: hiking, waterfalls, historic sites, and stunning views atop Lookout Mountain.
Little River Wildlife Preserve
11.4 km
Discover a peaceful natural escape at Little River Wildlife Preserve, your gateway to the stunning Little River Canyon in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Little River Canyon National Preserve
14.8 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
16.6 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.
Alabama Walking Trail Park
16.6 km
A modern park in Fort Payne with playgrounds, walking trails, and a splash pad, perfect for family fun and outdoor activities.
Essential places to dine
Tiger’s Inn
3.2 km
Experience authentic American dining at Tiger's Inn in Valley Head – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality.
MI Pizza
3.3 km
Experience delicious homemade pizzas in Valley Head at MI Pizza – where quality meets affordability.
Rib Shak
3.3 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Rib Shak in Valley Head—where smoky flavors meet heartfelt hospitality.
Wingstop
13.5 km
Savor deliciously crafted chicken wings at Wingstop in Fort Payne - a paradise for wing lovers with unique flavors and casual vibes.
Pizza Hut
13.6 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
13.6 km
Experience delicious fast food delights at Arby's in Fort Payne, where quick bites meet satisfying flavors.
Jack's
13.6 km
Experience authentic Southern fast food at Jack's in Fort Payne—where delicious breakfasts meet hearty hamburgers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Krystal
13.8 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
14.0 km
Discover delicious pizzas and endless fun at Barone's Pizza and Arcade in Fort Payne, AL - where family dining meets gaming excitement!
Little Caesars Pizza
17.7 km
Discover deliciously affordable pizza at Little Caesars Pizza in Fort Payne - perfect for travelers craving fast food delights.
Jefferson's
18.7 km
Experience mouthwatering chicken wings and juicy burgers at Jefferson's in Fort Payne—where American flavors come alive!
Santa Fe Cattle Company
18.9 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
19.1 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Fort Payne - where nostalgia meets delicious comfort food.
Subway
36.7 km
Discover fresh flavors at Subway in Cedar Bluff - where customization meets convenience in every bite.
Smorgasbord at The Cove
37.1 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
16.7 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
17.3 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.
20.7 km
Discover Gaming Etc. in Fort Payne, Alabama - your ultimate destination for video games, comics, and collectibles in a vibrant community atmosphere.
Cupboard Antiques
31.0 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
31.0 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
33.4 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
35.1 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
35.2 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
36.4 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
36.5 km
Discover the Country Store in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - your go-to spot for convenience, local snacks, and friendly service on your travels.
Maria's Furniture
36.9 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
36.9 km
Experience southern hospitality and local flavors at Piggly Wiggly, Cedar Bluff's favorite grocery store with fresh produce and quality products.
Kellz Designz
36.9 km
Discover your creativity at Kellz Designz, Cedar Bluff's premier custom t-shirt store, where every design tells your story.
Weiss Mart Marina
37.0 km
Experience the charm of Weiss Mart Marina in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a perfect blend of convenience, recreation, and scenic beauty.
The Rock
38.2 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
19.2 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
31.3 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
31.6 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
35.4 km
Discover the charm of Little River Marina & Lodge in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—your ultimate destination for outdoor adventures and lakeside relaxation.
StateLine Tavern & Grill
35.5 km
Discover the lively ambiance at StateLine Tavern & Grill, where delicious food, karaoke, and live music await in Rome, Georgia.
KT Pho Asian Restaurant - Cedar Bluff, AL
36.5 km
Discover the vibrant and authentic flavors of Asian cuisine at KT Pho Asian Restaurant in Cedar Bluff, AL.
The Burger Shack
36.5 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
36.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Cabaña, Cedar Bluff's premier destination for authentic Latin American cuisine.
The Big Chill
36.8 km
Discover the sweet delights of The Big Chill in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, where every scoop of ice cream is a taste of happiness.
Tony's Pizza & Subs
36.9 km
Discover Cedar Bluff's cherished Tony's Pizza & Subs, where delicious pizza and subs await in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
WEISS LAKE MOTEL
37.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Weiss Lake at Weiss Lake Motel, your cozy retreat in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground
37.2 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground, where adventure and relaxation await in beautiful Alabama.
La Marina
43.7 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'
44.2 km
Experience the heart of Southern cuisine at Whistle Stop Cafe, where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality in Centre, Alabama.
Guppy's Seafood
44.7 km
Savor the taste of the sea at Guppy's Seafood in Centre, Alabama, where fresh ingredients meet Southern hospitality.
