Little River Falls Bridge Overlook, Little River Canyon Travel Guide

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.