Little River Falls Observation Deck: Alabama's Natural Wonder
Witness the raw beauty of Little River Falls from an easily accessible observation deck. A must-see natural landmark in Alabama's Little River Canyon.
The Little River Falls Observation Deck offers an easily accessible and stunning introduction to the Little River Canyon National Preserve, showcasing the dramatic 45-foot Little River Falls. A short, ADA-accessible boardwalk leads to panoramic views of the falls as they begin their descent into the 'Grand Canyon of the East'.
A brief summary to Little River Falls Observation Deck
- Gaylesville, Alabama, 35973, US
- +1256-845-9605
- Visit website
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.
Getting There
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Driving
Little River Falls Observation Deck is located off Highway 35, between Gaylesville and Fort Payne, Alabama. From I-59, take exit 218 or 222 to US-11. Follow US-11 to AL-35 and turn left. The parking lot for the falls is just after the intersection with AL-176. Parking is free and plentiful, with space for cars, RVs, and buses. There are no tolls on this route.
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Walking
For those at the JSU Little River Canyon Center, a 1.5-mile walk to the Little River Falls Observation Deck is possible. Follow the well-marked Bridge Trail from the Canyon Center to the Highway 35 bridge walkway, which connects to the Little Falls Trail and the observation deck. Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes and water. There are no costs associated with walking this route.
Discover more about Little River Falls Observation Deck
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little River Falls Bridge Overlook
0.1 km
Witness the majestic Little River Falls from an easily accessible overlook, marking the start of the Little River Canyon in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Fort Payne Hosiery Museum
10.1 km
Step back in time at the Fort Payne Hosiery Museum, exploring the city's rich textile history as the 'Sock Capital of the World'.
Fort Payne Opera House
10.2 km
Experience history and culture at Alabama's oldest continuously operating theater, the beautifully restored Fort Payne Opera House.
Willstown Mission Cemetery
10.2 km
Discover the rich history of Fort Payne, Alabama at the Willstown Mission Cemetery, a serene historical landmark steeped in heritage.
Council Bluff School
21.4 km
Discover Alabama's rural educational heritage at the Council Bluff School, the last one-room schoolhouse in DeKalb County.
DeKalb County Public Lake
25.6 km
Escape to DeKalb County Public Lake for a day of fishing and family fun in a beautiful Sand Mountain setting.
James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park
26.9 km
Discover a peaceful retreat in northwest Georgia with fishing, hiking, and scenic beauty at James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park.
Cherokee Rock Village
29.6 km
Explore the geological wonderland of Cherokee Rock Village in Leesburg, Alabama. Hike, climb, and discover breathtaking views atop Lookout Mountain.
Tigers For Tomorrow Wild Animal Preserve, Inc.
36.3 km
Observe rescued tigers, lions, bears, and more at this wild animal preserve and environmental education center in Attalla, Alabama.
Unmissable attractions to see
Little River Canyon Falls Park
0.1 km
Discover the beauty of Little River Canyon Falls Park in Fort Payne, Alabama. Explore scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and a stunning 45-foot waterfall.
Little River Falls Overlook
0.4 km
Experience the majesty of Little River Falls Overlook in Alabama's Little River Canyon National Preserve: breathtaking views, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures await in this natural paradise.
Little River Canyon Kayak Put In
0.4 km
Launch your kayak into the heart of Little River Canyon, where thrilling whitewater and stunning scenery await experienced paddlers.
Little River Canyon Center
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich natural history at Little River Canyon Center, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts in Alabama.
Little Falls
1.0 km
Discover Martha's Falls (Little Falls) in Fort Payne, AL: A scenic swimming hole in Little River Canyon National Preserve, perfect for a refreshing escape.
Lynn Overlook
1.4 km
Experience panoramic views of Little River Canyon from this scenic overlook, a natural haven near Fort Payne, Alabama, along the Rim Parkway.
Mushroom Rock
2.3 km
Discover the enchanting Mushroom Rock in Fort Payne, Alabama, a unique natural wonder perfect for exploration and photography amidst stunning landscapes.
Little River Canyon National Preserve
3.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Little River Canyon National Preserve in Alabama, a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Greg's Two Falls
4.4 km
Discover the beauty of Greg's Two Falls near Fort Payne, Alabama, a perfect natural escape in the Appalachian foothills.
Little River Canyon
4.6 km
Discover Alabama's deepest canyon: breathtaking views, hiking trails, and the unique Little River flowing atop Lookout Mountain.
Canyon View Overlook
4.6 km
Experience the grandeur of Little River Canyon at Canyon View Overlook, a scenic spot offering breathtaking views and a connection with nature in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Wolf Creek Overlook
4.8 km
Experience stunning vistas and serene landscapes at Wolf Creek Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Crow Point Overlook
6.2 km
Explore the stunning Crow Point Overlook in Alabama’s Little River Canyon National Preserve, where breathtaking scenery meets serene nature.
Graces High Falls
6.3 km
Explore Graces High Falls, a breathtaking scenic spot in Alabama's Little River Canyon, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Little River Wildlife Preserve
6.3 km
Discover a peaceful natural escape at Little River Wildlife Preserve, your gateway to the stunning Little River Canyon in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Essential places to dine
Little Caesars Pizza
10.2 km
Discover deliciously affordable pizza at Little Caesars Pizza in Fort Payne - perfect for travelers craving fast food delights.
Barone's Pizza and Arcade
10.4 km
Discover delicious pizzas and endless fun at Barone's Pizza and Arcade in Fort Payne, AL - where family dining meets gaming excitement!
Krystal
10.4 km
Experience the best of fast food at Krystal in Fort Payne—delicious burgers, chicken wings, and breakfast delights await you.
Jack's
10.4 km
Experience authentic Southern fast food at Jack's in Fort Payne—where delicious breakfasts meet hearty hamburgers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wingstop
10.5 km
Savor deliciously crafted chicken wings at Wingstop in Fort Payne - a paradise for wing lovers with unique flavors and casual vibes.
Arby's
10.5 km
Experience delicious fast food delights at Arby's in Fort Payne, where quick bites meet satisfying flavors.
Pizza Hut
10.6 km
Enjoy delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Fort Payne - the perfect spot for families seeking tasty American comfort food.
Jefferson's
11.4 km
Experience mouthwatering chicken wings and juicy burgers at Jefferson's in Fort Payne—where American flavors come alive!
Santa Fe Cattle Company
12.2 km
Discover delicious steaks and BBQ delights at Santa Fe Cattle Company in Fort Payne - perfect for families and food lovers alike.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
12.3 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Fort Payne - where nostalgia meets delicious comfort food.
Tiger’s Inn
19.4 km
Experience authentic American dining at Tiger's Inn in Valley Head – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality.
Rib Shak
19.4 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Rib Shak in Valley Head—where smoky flavors meet heartfelt hospitality.
MI Pizza
19.5 km
Experience delicious homemade pizzas in Valley Head at MI Pizza – where quality meets affordability.
Subway
19.7 km
Discover fresh flavors at Subway in Cedar Bluff - where customization meets convenience in every bite.
Smorgasbord at The Cove
21.0 km
Discover delicious local cuisine at Smorgasbord at The Cove in Cedar Bluff – where flavors come alive in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery
0.8 km
Discover local flavors and convenience at Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery in Fort Payne, Alabama – a perfect stop for travelers and food lovers alike.
Hammers Department Store
10.2 km
Discover the charm of Hammers Department Store in Fort Payne, Alabama, where unique finds and unbeatable prices await every shopper.
Gaming Etc.
15.4 km
Discover Gaming Etc. in Fort Payne, Alabama - your ultimate destination for video games, comics, and collectibles in a vibrant community atmosphere.
Harton Nursery & Grocery Center
16.5 km
Discover fresh produce, vibrant plants, and local charm at Harton Nursery & Grocery Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a true hidden gem for travelers.
Global Electronics
18.0 km
Discover top-notch electronics and gadgets at Global Electronics in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, the ultimate destination for tech enthusiasts.
Donna’s bargain center
19.3 km
Explore unbeatable deals and hidden treasures at Donna’s Bargain Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - a shopper's paradise for every budget.
Missy's Fort Crowe Fireworks
19.6 km
Discover the ultimate fireworks destination at Missy's Fort Crowe Fireworks in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, offering a vast selection and exceptional service for all your celebration needs.
Kellz Designz
19.9 km
Discover your creativity at Kellz Designz, Cedar Bluff's premier custom t-shirt store, where every design tells your story.
Weiss Mart Marina
19.9 km
Experience the charm of Weiss Mart Marina in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a perfect blend of convenience, recreation, and scenic beauty.
Maria's Furniture
19.9 km
Explore a charming selection of Southern-style furniture and decor at Maria's Furniture in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for every home.
Piggly Wiggly
19.9 km
Experience southern hospitality and local flavors at Piggly Wiggly, Cedar Bluff's favorite grocery store with fresh produce and quality products.
Country Store
20.0 km
Discover the Country Store in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - your go-to spot for convenience, local snacks, and friendly service on your travels.
The Rock
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Discover local flavors and warm hospitality at The Rock grocery store in Sand Rock, Alabama, a perfect stop for travelers seeking authentic regional products.
The Secret Bed and Breakfast Lodge
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Discover the perfect blend of comfort and Southern hospitality at The Secret Bed and Breakfast Lodge in Leesburg, Alabama.
Rise Boutique
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Explore the best of women's fashion at Rise Boutique in Leesburg, Alabama, where style meets comfort and local charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black's Karaoke
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Experience the joy of singing at Black's Karaoke in Gaylesville, Alabama, where every night is a celebration of music and camaraderie.
Canyon Drive Burger Shack
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Discover delicious, budget-friendly burgers at Canyon Drive Burger Shack in the heart of Gaylesville, Alabama - a tasty stop for every traveler.
Little River Marina & Lodge
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Discover the charm of Little River Marina & Lodge in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—your ultimate destination for outdoor adventures and lakeside relaxation.
KT Pho Asian Restaurant - Cedar Bluff, AL
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Discover the vibrant and authentic flavors of Asian cuisine at KT Pho Asian Restaurant in Cedar Bluff, AL.
The Burger Shack
19.6 km
Experience the ultimate burger bliss at The Burger Shack, Cedar Bluff's top destination for delicious American fast food and cozy dining.
La Cabaña
19.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Cabaña, Cedar Bluff's premier destination for authentic Latin American cuisine.
The Big Chill
19.7 km
Discover the sweet delights of The Big Chill in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, where every scoop of ice cream is a taste of happiness.
WEISS LAKE MOTEL
19.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Weiss Lake at Weiss Lake Motel, your cozy retreat in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Tony's Pizza & Subs
19.9 km
Discover Cedar Bluff's cherished Tony's Pizza & Subs, where delicious pizza and subs await in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground
21.1 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground, where adventure and relaxation await in beautiful Alabama.
StateLine Tavern & Grill
22.7 km
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La Marina
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Discover La Marina in Leesburg, Alabama, where authentic Mexican cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for food lovers of all kinds.
Whistle Stop Cafe'
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Experience the heart of Southern cuisine at Whistle Stop Cafe, where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality in Centre, Alabama.
Guppy's Seafood
27.3 km
Savor the taste of the sea at Guppy's Seafood in Centre, Alabama, where fresh ingredients meet Southern hospitality.
Kloe’s
28.8 km
Savor the flavors of Southern comfort food at Kloe's, a cozy restaurant in Centre, Alabama, known for its hearty dishes and warm hospitality.
