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Noccalula Falls Park: A Natural and Historical Haven

Discover the beauty and history of Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden, Alabama – a natural treasure with hiking, gardens, and a legendary waterfall.

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Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden, Alabama, is a 250-acre park nestled in the Appalachian foothills, featuring a stunning 90-foot waterfall, Black Creek Gorge, and a rich tapestry of historical and recreational attractions. Visitors can explore botanical gardens, a pioneer village, a petting zoo, and scenic trails, making it a destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Noccalula Falls Park & Campground

Local tips

  • Explore the Gorge Trail to walk behind Noccalula Falls and experience the waterfall from a unique perspective.
  • Visit during the spring or winter to see the falls at their fullest, as the water flow is dependent on rainfall.
  • Take advantage of the free viewing area near Jack's to see the top of the falls and the Noccalula statue without paying park admission.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Noccalula Falls Park is located at 1500 Noccalula Rd, Gadsden, AL 35904. From I-59, take exit 188 and follow the signs to the park. Parking is available within the park. Parking is located between Noccalula Road and the campground entrance. Admission to the park is $8 for adults and $6 for children (ages 4-12).

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Noccalula Falls Park, you can take a local Gadsden bus to a nearby stop and then take a short taxi or ride-share to the park. Taxi/ride-share from downtown Gadsden to the park will cost approximately $10-$15. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times.

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Discover more about Noccalula Falls Park & Campground

Noccalula Falls Park, located in Gadsden, Alabama, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park's centerpiece is the majestic Noccalula Falls, a 90-foot waterfall that plunges into the Black Creek Gorge. The park's name, likely derived from the Cherokee term for "place where water thunders," reflects the area's deep Native American history. The legend of Princess Noccalula adds a poignant layer to the falls' allure. According to the tale, Noccalula, a Cherokee princess, leaped to her death rather than marry a man she did not love. A nine-foot bronze statue of Noccalula stands at the gorge's edge, commemorating her sacrifice. Beyond the falls, the park offers a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore a pioneer village with hand-hewn log buildings, representing 18th and 19th-century life, including a covered bridge, grist mill, and blacksmith shop. The park also features botanical gardens, a petting zoo, and over fifteen miles of trails that wind through the Black Creek Gorge, past caves, and Civil War carvings. Noccalula Falls Park has a rich history, evolving from a popular gathering spot in the 1800s to a public park. Former Gadsden Mayor R.A. Mitchell played a key role, purchasing land in 1909 with the vision of creating a park. Today, the park continues to be a must-see destination in Northeast Alabama, attracting hikers, campers, and families from all over the world.

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