Background

Little River Falls Overlook: Alabama's Grand Canyon Gateway

Witness the majestic Little River Falls, the gateway to Alabama's Grand Canyon, with accessible overlooks and stunning natural beauty year-round.

4.8

Little River Falls Overlook provides easy access to stunning views of a 45-foot waterfall, marking the beginning of Little River Canyon, often called the 'Grand Canyon of the East'. A short, accessible boardwalk leads to panoramic views of the falls and canyon.

A brief summary to Little River Falls Overlook

Local tips

  • Visit during the winter or early spring for the most dramatic waterfall views due to higher rainfall.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot can fill up quickly.
  • 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.
widget icon

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 and free with space for cars, RVs, and buses.

Unlock the Best of Little River Falls Overlook

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Little River Falls Overlook

Located in Fort Payne, Alabama, Little River Falls Overlook offers an accessible and awe-inspiring introduction to Little River Canyon National Preserve. The 45-foot Little River Falls marks the start of the Little River's 12-mile journey through one of the deepest canyons in the eastern United States. The canyon itself can reach depths of over 600 feet. The overlook is conveniently located off Highway 35, with a large parking area that accommodates cars, RVs, and buses. A 100-foot ADA-accessible boardwalk leads from the parking lot to the main overlook, ensuring visitors of all abilities can enjoy the view. From the observation platform, visitors can witness the cascading water and the rugged canyon landscape. Benches are available for those who want to pause and take in the serene atmosphere. The falls change character with the seasons. During winter and spring, increased rainfall transforms the falls into a powerful torrent. In summer and fall, the water level is much lower, sometimes allowing visitors to swim in the river below. However, swimming can be dangerous during periods of high water flow, and cliff jumping is prohibited. Little River Falls has been a landmark for thousands of years. Native Americans visited the falls for centuries before European settlers arrived. The falls also played a role in providing power to nearby communities during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Popular Experiences near Little River Falls Overlook

Popular Hotels near Little River Falls Overlook

Select Currency