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Little Falls: A Swimming Hole Paradise

Discover Little Falls in Fort Payne, Alabama: A scenic swimming hole nestled in the Little River Canyon National Preserve.

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Little Falls, also known as Martha's Falls or locally as 'Hippie Hole,' is a popular swimming spot within Little River Canyon National Preserve near Fort Payne, Alabama. This wide, gentle waterfall cascades over a sandstone ledge, creating a refreshing and scenic destination for visitors.

A brief summary to Little Falls

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer for the best swimming conditions, but be aware that the parking lot can fill up quickly on weekends.
  • Exercise caution when swimming, especially during periods of high water. The rocks can be slippery.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking the Little Falls Trail, as the terrain can be rocky.
  • Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks, as there are limited facilities at the falls.
  • Be prepared to carry out all of your trash to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Little Falls, navigate to the Little River Falls parking lot on Highway 35, near the bridge between Gaylesville and Fort Payne, Alabama. From the parking lot, follow the Little Falls Trail for approximately 0.7 miles. The last section of the trail includes a steep stone staircase leading down to the falls. Parking is free, but the lot often fills up by 11:00 AM on late spring and summer weekends. Have a backup plan in case the parking lot is full.

  • Walking

    From the Little River Falls Overlook, the Little Falls Trail is accessible via a gap in the fence that allows visitors to hop off the boardwalk. Follow the trail for approximately 0.7 miles, until you reach the steep stone staircase that leads down to Little River. The hike takes about 30 minutes.

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Discover more about Little Falls

Little Falls, nestled within the Little River Canyon National Preserve, offers a delightful escape into nature. Formerly known as Martha's Falls, this area is also affectionately called 'Hippie Hole' by locals. The falls themselves are not particularly tall, but their width makes them a unique and worthwhile destination. The water gently cascades over a broad sandstone ledge, creating a mini-waterfall effect that stretches across the river. During the warmer months, Little Falls transforms into a popular swimming hole. The pools above the falls are perfect for wading, while the area below the falls offers a wonderful swimming experience. However, visitors should exercise caution, especially during periods of high water. The current can be strong, and the rocks can be slippery. Swimming is extremely dangerous during the wet season, which lasts from late fall through spring. Drowning is the number one cause of death at Little River Canyon National Preserve. The Little Falls Trail provides access to the falls, with the official trailhead located at the Little River Falls Picnic Area. The trail is approximately 0.7 miles long, with a steep stone staircase leading down to the river. The hike to Little Falls takes about 30 minutes. The trail is fairly level for 0.6 miles, but the surface is rocky. Little River Canyon itself is a significant natural feature, often called the 'Grand Canyon of the East'. The canyon stretches for 12 miles and reaches depths of over 600 feet. Little River is unique because it flows for most of its length atop Lookout Mountain.

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