Little River Canyon National Preserve: A Natural Wonder
Discover Alabama's natural beauty: Explore Little River Canyon's stunning overlooks, waterfalls, and outdoor adventures in the Southern Appalachians.
Little River Canyon National Preserve, a 15,288-acre haven in northeast Alabama, invites visitors to explore a remarkable landscape shaped by the Little River over millennia. The river, unique in that it flows almost its entire length atop Lookout Mountain, has carved one of the Southeast's deepest canyons, showcasing sandstone cliffs that tower up to 600 feet. The preserve boasts a rich tapestry of natural and cultural history. From Native American populations to Civil War troops and the construction of the Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia Rail Line, the area has witnessed significant events throughout history. Today, visitors can delve into this past while marveling at the preserve's scenic beauty. The Little River Canyon Rim Parkway (AL 176), a 23-mile scenic drive, provides access to numerous overlooks with breathtaking views of the canyon, waterfalls, and lush foliage. Hiking trails cater to all skill levels, from gentle strolls to challenging descents into the canyon. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and rock climbing. The preserve is divided into three main areas: the Backcountry, the Scenic Drive, and Canyon Mouth Park. Each area offers unique experiences and opportunities for exploration. Little River Canyon is a place of beauty that is also host to stories of adversity and survival. Over 1,100 men, women, and children moved through the Little River area during the removal of the Cherokee and Muscogee (Creek) Indians. Cherokee John Benge led the Fort Payne group of American Indians over 798 miles on the Trail of Tears to Indian Territory in what is now Oklahoma, crossing the Little River above the falls near the present-day Highway 35 bridge.
Local tips
- Stop by the Little River Canyon Center for maps, information, and to learn about park activities.
- Drive the scenic Little River Canyon Rim Parkway (AL 176) for stunning views and access to overlooks.
- Hike the Eberhart Trail for a challenging descent into the canyon.
- Visit during the fall for spectacular foliage and migrating raptors.
- Be aware that cell service is limited in many parts of the park.
A brief summary to Little River Canyon National Preserve
- 4322 Little River Trail #100, Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, US
- +1256-845-9605
- Visit website
Getting There
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Driving
The easiest way to access Little River Canyon National Preserve is by car via Alabama Highway 35, about 10 miles east of Fort Payne. From I-59, take Exit 218 and head south on AL Highway 35. Follow the signs to the Little River Canyon Center. Parking is available at the center and at various overlooks along the Little River Canyon Rim Parkway (AL 176). Parking at Canyon Mouth Park costs $3. Be aware that County Roads 148 and 275, part of the Canyon Rim Drive, are closed to RVs and vehicles with trailers due to steep grades and tight curves.
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Public Transport
While there is public transportation to Fort Payne, options for reaching the preserve itself are limited. ALTRANS provides free public transportation within DeKalb County, but reservations must be made 24 hours in advance. From Fort Payne, you can also consider a taxi or rideshare service like Uber to reach the Little River Canyon Center, keeping in mind that these services may have limited availability and higher costs. Taxi fares from Fort Payne start at approximately $1.90 per mile.
Attractions Nearby to Little River Canyon National Preserve
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Little River Canyon Falls Park
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Little River Falls Observation Deck
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Little River Wildlife Preserve
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Little River Falls Overlook
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Little River Canyon Kayak Put In
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Little River Canyon Center
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Little Falls
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Lynn Overlook
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Mushroom Rock
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Greg's Two Falls
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Little River Canyon
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Canyon View Overlook
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Wolf Creek Overlook
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DeSoto State Park Cabin #6
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Indian Falls
