Little Falls, Little River Canyon National Preserve Travel Guide

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A scenic swimming hole in Little River Canyon National Preserve, perfect for a refreshing dip in a natural setting.

Little Falls, also known as Martha's Falls or locally as Hippie Hole, is a scenic mini-waterfall within Little River Canyon National Preserve near Fort Payne, Alabama. This popular swimming spot features water cascading over a wide sandstone ledge, offering a refreshing escape during the warmer months.

A brief summary to Little Falls

AL-35, Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the late spring or summer for the best swimming conditions, as the water levels are typically lower and more suitable for wading.
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot can fill up quickly, particularly during peak season.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking and swimming, as the trail to the falls can be rugged and the rocks around the falls can be slippery.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Little River Canyon Falls Park

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Little River Canyon

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Explore Little Falls on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Little Falls, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Little Falls is accessed via the Little River Falls parking lot on Highway 35. From Fort Payne, take AL-35 East. The parking lot is located near the bridge between Gaylesville and Fort Payne. Park here and follow the Little Falls Trail, a 0.75-mile hike with 137 stone stairs, down into the canyon to reach the falls. Parking is free.
Walking

If you are already at the Little River Falls overlook, the Little Falls Trail is a 0.75-mile hike from the parking lot. Follow the trail with 137 stone stairs down into the canyon to reach Little Falls. Be prepared for a moderate hike.

Discover more about Little Falls

Little Falls, nestled within the Little River Canyon National Preserve, presents a delightful natural attraction for visitors seeking a refreshing escape. Formerly known as Martha's Falls, and still referred to as Hippie Hole by locals, this wide, low-height waterfall is formed by the Little River gracefully cascading over a broad sandstone ledge.Located within the Little River Canyon National Preserve, Little Falls offers more than just a swimming hole. The surrounding area boasts the stunning beauty of the Little River Canyon, one of the deepest and most extensive canyon systems east of the Mississippi. The preserve features a scenic 23-mile drive along the canyon rim with numerous overlooks, providing breathtaking vistas of the 700-foot gorge.While Little River Falls showcases the river's power as it carves through sandstone bedrock, Little Falls offers a more intimate experience, inviting visitors to connect with nature in a tranquil setting. The area is easily accessible from the Little River Falls parking lot, with a trail leading to the falls. This makes it a convenient stop for families and individuals exploring the preserve.