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Little River Canyon, Little River Canyon National Preserve Travel Guide

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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
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Little River Canyon.

  • 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.

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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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

Little River Canyon National Preserve protects a remarkable natural landscape in northeast Alabama. Carved by the Little River over millions of years, the canyon boasts sandstone cliffs reaching up to 600 feet, offering breathtaking vistas and a sense of awe. The Little River itself is unique, flowing for almost its entire length atop Lookout Mountain.Established as a National Preserve in 1992, the area has a rich history, from Native American settlements to Civil War encampments. Visitors can explore the canyon's scenic beauty via the Canyon Rim Drive (AL-176), which connects a series of overlooks with stunning views. Hiking trails cater to all skill levels, from easy strolls to strenuous descents into the canyon.The preserve is divided into three main areas: the Backcountry, the Scenic Drive, and the Canyon Mouth Picnic Area. Little River Falls and Grace's High Falls are popular waterfall destinations. The Little River Canyon Center provides visitor information and educational exhibits. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful escape, Little River Canyon offers a memorable experience in the heart of the Southern Appalachians.

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