Little River Canyon: Alabama's Natural Wonder
Discover Alabama's deepest canyon: breathtaking views, hiking trails, and the unique Little River flowing atop Lookout Mountain.
Little River Canyon National Preserve, located atop Lookout Mountain, is one of the deepest canyons in the Southeast, offering stunning views, hiking trails, and a rich history. The Little River, unique for flowing almost its entire length on a mountaintop, has carved a dramatic landscape of sandstone cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
A brief summary to Little River Canyon
- AL-176, Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, US
Local tips
- Stop by the Little River Canyon Center for maps, information, and an orientation film before exploring the preserve.
- Drive the scenic Canyon Rim Drive (AL-176) for easy access to overlooks with stunning canyon views.
- Bring appropriate footwear for hiking, as trails range from easy to strenuous.
- Be aware that cell phone reception is limited in many areas of the park.
- Canyon Mouth Park charges a parking fee, while other locations are free.
Getting There
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Driving
From Fort Payne, AL, take AL-35 N/AL-48 E. Continue to follow AL-35 N for approximately 7 miles. Turn left onto AL-176 and follow the road to access various overlooks and trailheads along the Little River Canyon Rim Parkway. Parking is available at designated areas near the overlooks and trailheads. Note that Canyon Mouth Park, at the southern end of the canyon, has a parking fee of $15 per vehicle.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to Little River Canyon National Preserve, DeKalb County Rural Public Transportation offers rides for any purpose to all people. Contact them at (256) 845-8593 for scheduling and fare information. From Fort Payne, you can also take a taxi to the Little River Canyon Center or other points along the canyon rim. Taxi fares from Fort Payne typically range from $20-$40.
Discover more about Little River Canyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little River Falls Bridge Overlook
4.6 km
Witness the raw power and serene beauty of Little River Falls from this easily accessible overlook in Little River Canyon National Preserve.
Lookout Mountain Genetics
6.1 km
Explore the art of livestock genetics in Fort Payne, Alabama, where tradition meets innovation in animal husbandry.
Fort Payne Opera House
10.5 km
Discover the charm of Fort Payne Opera House, Alabama's oldest opera venue, where history and culture come alive through captivating performances.
Willstown Mission Cemetery
12.4 km
Explore the Willstown Mission Cemetery, a historical landmark in Fort Payne, Alabama, steeped in rich stories of early American settlers and their legacy.
Council Bluff School
24.4 km
Discover the Council Bluff School: A Historic Landmark Celebrating Alabama's Educational Heritage in Valley Head.
Cherokee Rock Village
25.1 km
Explore the geological wonderland of Cherokee Rock Village in Leesburg, Alabama. Hike, climb, and discover breathtaking views atop Lookout Mountain.
Brow Park
25.2 km
Breathtaking Lookout Mountain views in Mentone, Alabama, perfect for picnics and unforgettable sunsets.
DeKalb County Public Lake
26.8 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities at DeKalb County Public Lake in Alabama, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Canyon View Overlook
0.0 km
Experience breathtaking canyon views at this easily accessible overlook in Little River Canyon National Preserve, near Fort Payne, Alabama.
Wolf Creek Overlook
0.3 km
Experience stunning vistas and serene landscapes at Wolf Creek Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Greg's Two Falls
0.5 km
Discover the beauty of Greg's Two Falls near Fort Payne, Alabama, a perfect natural escape in the Appalachian foothills.
Crow Point Overlook
1.6 km
Explore the stunning Crow Point Overlook in Alabama’s Little River Canyon National Preserve, where breathtaking scenery meets serene nature.
Graces High Falls
1.8 km
Explore Graces High Falls, a breathtaking scenic spot in Alabama's Little River Canyon, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Eberhart Point Overlook
2.0 km
Discover breathtaking views at Eberhart Point Overlook in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, the ultimate scenic escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Mushroom Rock
2.8 km
Discover the enchanting Mushroom Rock in Fort Payne, Alabama, a unique natural wonder perfect for exploration and photography amidst stunning landscapes.
Lynn Overlook
3.5 km
Breathtaking panoramic views of Little River Canyon, Alabama's natural masterpiece, easily accessible from the scenic Rim Parkway.
Congo Nature Preserve (Park Office and Visitors Center)
4.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Congo Nature Preserve in Fort Payne, Alabama - a natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Powell Trail - Little River Canyon
4.3 km
Hike into the heart of Little River Canyon on Powell Trail, where wildflowers bloom and the Little River beckons.
Little River Canyon Kayak Put In
4.4 km
Launch your kayak into the heart of Little River Canyon, where thrilling whitewater and stunning scenery await experienced paddlers.
Little River Falls Overlook
4.4 km
Witness the grandeur of Little River Falls from this easily accessible overlook, a gateway to the natural wonders of Little River Canyon.
Little Falls
4.5 km
Discover Martha's Falls (Little Falls) in Fort Payne, AL: A scenic swimming hole in Little River Canyon National Preserve, perfect for a refreshing escape.
Little River Canyon Center
4.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich natural history at Little River Canyon Center, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts in Alabama.
Little River Falls Observation Deck
4.6 km
Witness the raw beauty of Little River Falls from an easily accessible observation deck. A must-see natural landmark in Alabama's Little River Canyon.
Essential places to dine
Little Caesars Pizza
10.1 km
Discover deliciously affordable pizza at Little Caesars Pizza in Fort Payne - perfect for travelers craving fast food delights.
Jefferson's
10.8 km
Experience mouthwatering chicken wings and juicy burgers at Jefferson's in Fort Payne—where American flavors come alive!
Santa Fe Cattle Company
11.6 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
11.7 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Fort Payne - where nostalgia meets delicious comfort food.
Barone's Pizza and Arcade
11.7 km
Discover delicious pizzas and endless fun at Barone's Pizza and Arcade in Fort Payne, AL - where family dining meets gaming excitement!
Krystal
11.9 km
Experience the best of fast food at Krystal in Fort Payne—delicious burgers, chicken wings, and breakfast delights await you.
Jack's
12.0 km
Experience authentic Southern fast food at Jack's in Fort Payne—where delicious breakfasts meet hearty hamburgers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wingstop
12.0 km
Savor deliciously crafted chicken wings at Wingstop in Fort Payne - a paradise for wing lovers with unique flavors and casual vibes.
Arby's
12.0 km
Experience delicious fast food delights at Arby's in Fort Payne, where quick bites meet satisfying flavors.
Pizza Hut
12.1 km
Enjoy delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Fort Payne - the perfect spot for families seeking tasty American comfort food.
Subway
17.0 km
Discover fresh flavors at Subway in Cedar Bluff - where customization meets convenience in every bite.
Mountain Parkway Grill
18.9 km
Discover delightful comfort food at Mountain Parkway Grill in Sand Rock, Alabama – perfect for family gatherings and local flavors.
Smorgasbord at The Cove
19.2 km
Discover delicious local cuisine at Smorgasbord at The Cove in Cedar Bluff – where flavors come alive in every bite.
Jake's On The Lake
19.5 km
Experience delicious dining at Jake's On The Lake with stunning views of Weiss Lake in Cedar Bluff, Alabama.
Walk Hard BBQ
22.3 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Walk Hard BBQ in Leesburg, Alabama - where every bite tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery
4.3 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.
Hammers Department Store
10.5 km
Discover the charm of Hammers Department Store in Fort Payne, Alabama, where unique finds and unbeatable prices await every shopper.
Harton Nursery & Grocery Center
14.0 km
Discover fresh produce, vibrant plants, and local charm at Harton Nursery & Grocery Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a true hidden gem for travelers.
Gaming Etc.
14.6 km
Discover Gaming Etc. in Fort Payne, Alabama - your ultimate destination for video games, comics, and collectibles in a vibrant community atmosphere.
Global Electronics
15.2 km
Discover top-notch electronics and gadgets at Global Electronics in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, the ultimate destination for tech enthusiasts.
Donna’s bargain center
16.6 km
Explore unbeatable deals and hidden treasures at Donna’s Bargain Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - a shopper's paradise for every budget.
Weiss Mart Marina
17.1 km
Experience the charm of Weiss Mart Marina in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a perfect blend of convenience, recreation, and scenic beauty.
Kellz Designz
17.1 km
Discover your creativity at Kellz Designz, Cedar Bluff's premier custom t-shirt store, where every design tells your story.
The Rock
17.2 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.
Maria's Furniture
17.2 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
17.2 km
Experience southern hospitality and local flavors at Piggly Wiggly, Cedar Bluff's favorite grocery store with fresh produce and quality products.
Country Store
17.9 km
Discover the Country Store in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - your go-to spot for convenience, local snacks, and friendly service on your travels.
Missy's Fort Crowe Fireworks
18.3 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.
The Secret Bed and Breakfast Lodge
19.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and Southern hospitality at The Secret Bed and Breakfast Lodge in Leesburg, Alabama.
Rise Boutique
20.3 km
Explore the best of women's fashion at Rise Boutique in Leesburg, Alabama, where style meets comfort and local charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Canyon Drive Burger Shack
14.2 km
Discover delicious, budget-friendly burgers at Canyon Drive Burger Shack in the heart of Gaylesville, Alabama - a tasty stop for every traveler.
Black's Karaoke
14.3 km
Experience the joy of singing at Black's Karaoke in Gaylesville, Alabama, where every night is a celebration of music and camaraderie.
Little River Marina & Lodge
14.5 km
Discover the charm of Little River Marina & Lodge in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—your ultimate destination for outdoor adventures and lakeside relaxation.
KT Pho Asian Restaurant - Cedar Bluff, AL
16.6 km
Discover the vibrant and authentic flavors of Asian cuisine at KT Pho Asian Restaurant in Cedar Bluff, AL.
The Big Chill
16.9 km
Discover the sweet delights of The Big Chill in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, where every scoop of ice cream is a taste of happiness.
La Cabaña
17.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Cabaña, Cedar Bluff's premier destination for authentic Latin American cuisine.
The Burger Shack
17.0 km
Experience the ultimate burger bliss at The Burger Shack, Cedar Bluff's top destination for delicious American fast food and cozy dining.
WEISS LAKE MOTEL
17.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Weiss Lake at Weiss Lake Motel, your cozy retreat in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Tony's Pizza & Subs
17.2 km
Discover Cedar Bluff's cherished Tony's Pizza & Subs, where delicious pizza and subs await in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground
19.3 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground, where adventure and relaxation await in beautiful Alabama.
La Marina
22.3 km
Discover La Marina in Leesburg, Alabama, where authentic Mexican cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for food lovers of all kinds.
StateLine Tavern & Grill
22.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance at StateLine Tavern & Grill, where delicious food, karaoke, and live music await in Rome, Georgia.
Whistle Stop Cafe'
23.0 km
Experience the heart of Southern cuisine at Whistle Stop Cafe, where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality in Centre, Alabama.
Guppy's Seafood
23.3 km
Savor the taste of the sea at Guppy's Seafood in Centre, Alabama, where fresh ingredients meet Southern hospitality.
Kloe’s
26.0 km
Savor the flavors of Southern comfort food at Kloe's, a cozy restaurant in Centre, Alabama, known for its hearty dishes and warm hospitality.
