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Little River Falls Bridge Overlook

Witness the majestic Little River Falls from an easily accessible overlook, marking the start of the Little River Canyon in Fort Payne, Alabama.

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The Little River Falls Bridge Overlook offers easily accessible panoramic views of the 45-foot Little River Falls, marking the start of the Little River Canyon. A short, paved path from the parking area leads to an observation platform, making it a convenient and scenic stop for all visitors. It's a must-see within the Little River Canyon National Preserve.

A brief summary to Little River Falls Bridge Overlook

  • Little River Falls Overlook Trail, Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the winter or early spring for the most dramatic waterfall views, as rainfall is highest during these seasons.
  • Take the short, accessible boardwalk trail to the observation platform for panoramic views of the falls and canyon.
  • Explore the scenic Canyon Rim Drive (Highway 176) for more overlooks and hiking trails within the Little River Canyon National Preserve.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at the shaded picnic area near the parking lot.
  • Be cautious when swimming in the river below the falls, especially during periods of high water flow.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Fort Payne, Alabama, head east on AL-35 for approximately 9 miles. The Little River Falls Overlook will be on your left, just before the bridge over Little River. The parking area is well-marked. There are no tolls or parking fees at the Little River Falls Overlook. Parking is free and plentiful, with space for cars, RVs, and buses.

  • Walking

    If you are at the Little River Canyon Center, you can take the Bridge Trail to the Little River Falls Overlook. The Bridge Trail runs a half mile between the Little River Canyon Center and the Alabama Highway 35 bridge over the Little River. Adjacent to the bridge is the Little River Falls parking lot and an observation deck overlooking the waterfall.

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Discover more about Little River Falls Bridge Overlook

Little River Falls Bridge Overlook provides the most accessible and rewarding views of the impressive Little River Falls. The 45-foot waterfall marks the beginning of Little River's journey through one of the deepest canyons in the eastern United States. Located just off Highway 35, near Fort Payne and Gaylesville, the overlook is easily reached by car. The large parking area accommodates vehicles of all sizes, including RVs and buses. From the parking area, a short, paved path leads to the observation platform, ensuring accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. The path is approximately 100 feet long and six feet wide, providing ample space for wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The amount of water flowing over Little River Falls varies depending on the season. During the winter and early spring, when rainfall is abundant, the falls are at their most powerful and dramatic. In the summer and early fall, the water level is much lower. Little River Falls has been a landmark for thousands of years. Native Americans visited the waterfall for centuries before the arrival of Europeans. The community of Edna Hill grew up around Little River Falls during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Centered around a mill that was built just above the falls where the rushing water provided a power source to turn the mill wheel, the community included a store, church, and homes. The Little River Canyon National Preserve offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities, including swimming, fishing, climbing, and world-class whitewater paddling.

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