Dismals Canyon: A Bioluminescent Wonderland
Explore a hidden world of ancient rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and sparkling glowworms at Alabama's Dismals Canyon, a National Natural Landmark.
Discover Dismals Canyon, a National Natural Landmark in Northwest Alabama, where you can explore a stunning sandstone gorge, hike past waterfalls, and witness the magical glow of the Dismalites, bioluminescent insects that light up the night.
A brief summary to Dismals Canyon
- 901 County Rd 8, Phil Campbell, Alabama, 35581, US
- +1205-993-4559
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain, as the trail involves stairs, rock-hopping, and creek crossings.
- Bring a pair of dry socks and shoes in case your feet get wet during the water crossings.
- Make reservations for the guided night tour in advance, as they often sell out, especially during peak season (late April-May and September-October).
- Visit during the week or early in the day to avoid crowds, as the parking lot can be cramped, especially on weekends.
- Check the Dismals Canyon website for seasonal hours and admission rates before planning your visit.
Getting There
-
Driving
Dismals Canyon is located in a rural area near Phil Campbell, Alabama. From Russellville, Alabama, take US-43/AL-17 south. Turn west onto Highway 8, and follow it to Dismals Canyon. The canyon is approximately 12 miles south of Russellville. Parking is free, but the lot is small and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Additional parking is available along the road.
Discover more about Dismals Canyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Freeman House
39.3 km
Explore the Historic Freeman House in Tuscumbia, Alabama - a captivating landmark showcasing rich history and architectural beauty.
Warrior Mountain Historic Marker
40.6 km
Explore the Warrior Mountain Historic Marker, a historical landmark in Alabama that unveils the region's cultural heritage and tranquil landscapes.
Tuscumbia Historic District
45.6 km
Explore the historical gems of Tuscumbia Historic District, where charming architecture meets vibrant local culture in Alabama.
Tuscumbia Landing
47.4 km
Explore the historical charm of Tuscumbia Landing in Sheffield, Alabama, where scenic beauty meets rich cultural heritage along the Tennessee River.
Fame Recording Studios
47.8 km
Experience the soulful sounds of Muscle Shoals at FAME Recording Studios, where music history comes alive. Tours available!
Freedom Hills Overlook
48.4 km
Hike to the highest point on Alabama's Natchez Trace Parkway for stunning scenic views and a breath of fresh air.
Sheffield Downtown Commercial Historic District
48.9 km
Explore Sheffield, Alabama's historic heart: A captivating blend of late 19th and early 20th-century architecture and commercial heritage.
Sougahoagdee Falls Parking
49.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Sougahoagdee Falls in Houston, Alabama, a stunning natural wonder perfect for hiking and enjoying the beauty of nature.
Old Stone Bridge
49.9 km
Discover the timeless charm of Sheffield's Old Stone Bridge, a picturesque landmark offering history and scenic beauty in a tranquil setting.
Muscle Shoals Sound Studios
50.1 km
Walk in the footsteps of music legends at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, where the raw, soulful sound of American music history was made.
Sheffield Standpipe
50.2 km
Explore the Sheffield Standpipe, a historic landmark that showcases Alabama's engineering heritage and offers a unique glimpse into the past.
Old Railroad Bridge Historic Marker
51.6 km
Explore the Old Railroad Bridge Historic Marker in Sheffield, Alabama, where history meets nature in a captivating landscape.
Old Railroad Bridge
51.8 km
Discover the beauty and history of the Old Railroad Bridge in Sheffield, Alabama – a stunning landmark perfect for leisurely walks and breathtaking views.
McFarland Park
51.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of McFarland Park, a tranquil oasis on the Tennessee River in Florence, Alabama, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.
McFarland Lighthouse
51.9 km
A charming landmark in McFarland Park offering beautiful views of the Tennessee River in Florence, Alabama.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bear Creek Canoe Run
3.7 km
Discover the beauty of Bear Creek Canoe Run in Hackleburg, AL: canoe and kayak rentals, scenic waterfalls, and a perfect day on the water!
Lower Factory Falls
6.0 km
Discover the beauty of Lower Factory Falls in Bear Creek, Alabama. Hike scenic trails, picnic by the waterfalls, and experience nature's tranquility.
Twin Forks Campgrounds, Bear Creek, Alabama
10.9 km
Escape to Twin Forks Campgrounds in Bear Creek, Alabama, for lakeside camping, fishing, and natural beauty near Dismals Canyon.
Willow Oak Lodge
11.2 km
Discover rustic charm and outdoor adventures at Willow Oak Lodge, a unique hunting preserve and event venue in Spruce Pine, Alabama.
Williams Hollow Campground
16.4 km
Escape to Williams Hollow Campground in Spruce Pine, AL, for camping, fishing, and lakeside relaxation on Little Bear Reservoir.
Sloss Lake Park
18.9 km
Escape to nature at Sloss Lake Park in Russellville, AL: fishing, hiking, picnics, and community events await!
Rocky Ravine Park
19.0 km
Discover scenic trails, waterfalls, and local history at this natural escape in the heart of Haleyville, Alabama. A perfect spot for hiking and family fun!
Elliott Branch
21.6 km
Escape to Elliott Branch Campground on Little Bear Reservoir: Camping, cabins, swimming, and outdoor fun in Hodges, Alabama.
Hurricane Creek Lodge
24.9 km
Experience world-class hunting and Southern hospitality at Hurricane Creek Lodge, your ultimate Alabama outdoor destination.
KinlockShelter
25.1 km
Explore ancient Native American rock art and natural beauty in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest.
Trailhead for Parker Falls
26.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Parker Falls in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest, a short hike to a captivating cascade and lush canyon scenery.
Black Warrior Wildlife Management Area
27.2 km
Explore Alabama's wild side at Black Warrior WMA: Hunting, hiking, birdwatching, and outdoor adventures await in this diverse natural landscape.
Thompson Trailhead
28.6 km
Explore Alabama's Sipsey Wilderness: Hike through stunning landscapes, discover hidden waterfalls, and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility at Thompson Trailhead.
Randolph Trail Head Parking, Bankhead National Forest
28.8 km
Explore the Sipsey Wilderness! Hiking, waterfalls, and natural beauty await in Bankhead National Forest.
Eye of the Needle / Ship Rock
28.9 km
Discover the majestic Eye of the Needle and Ship Rock in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest for hiking, camping, and stunning natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Jack's
39.0 km
Discover the heart of Southern fast food at Jack's in Double Springs – where delicious breakfasts meet mouthwatering burgers.
Lakeshore Inn Restaurant
47.7 km
Discover Lakeshore Inn Restaurant: where American cuisine meets stunning lakeside views in Double Springs, Alabama.
Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant
53.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico at Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant in Tishomingo – where every meal is a fiesta!
Viva La Casita
53.3 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Viva La Casita in Tishomingo - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Inez's Drive Inn
55.5 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Inez's Drive Inn in Tishomingo - where every meal feels like home.
Hardins Country Store & Restaurant
72.9 km
Experience authentic Southern hospitality with delicious pizzas at Hardins Country Store & Restaurant in Tupelo.
Tin Top Grill LLC
74.2 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Tin Top Grill LLC in Mooreville – where southern hospitality meets delicious flavors.
Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings
74.3 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings in Decatur, AL – where flavor meets hospitality.
The Grille at Trident Marina
74.4 km
Experience exceptional lakeside dining at The Grille at Trident Marina with stunning views and delicious local cuisine.
Logan's Roadhouse
74.9 km
Experience hearty American cuisine at Logan's Roadhouse in Decatur – where every meal feels like home!
Applebee's Grill + Bar
75.2 km
Experience American cuisine at its best at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Decatur - where flavor meets family-friendly fun!
Chick-fil-A
75.4 km
Savor the flavors of Southern hospitality at Chick-fil-A in Decatur - where every meal is made with care.
L Patron Mexican Grill and Cantina
75.7 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at L Patron Mexican Grill and Cantina in Decatur – where every meal is a festive celebration of flavor!
Chili's Grill & Bar
75.7 km
Experience vibrant American and Tex-Mex cuisine at Chili's Grill & Bar in Decatur - perfect for families and casual gatherings.
Chow King Grill & Buffet
75.9 km
Savor an all-you-can-eat adventure at Chow King Grill & Buffet in Decatur - where diverse cuisines meet affordability!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shell
6.9 km
Discover the convenience of Shell Gas Station in Hackleburg, where fuel, snacks, and local hospitality meet on your journey through Alabama.
Bikes & Bullets
7.0 km
Discover Bikes & Bullets in Hackleburg, Alabama, where firearm enthusiasts find an extensive selection and expert guidance in a welcoming environment.
Chevron
7.5 km
Explore Phil Campbell with ease at Chevron, your one-stop destination for fuel, snacks, and essential repairs.
Valley Lumber Co Inc
7.7 km
Discover Hackleburg's timber legacy at Valley Lumber Co Inc - a lumber store and saw mill rich in craftsmanship and local history.
Consolidated Forest Products
10.1 km
Discover quality lumber and wood products at Consolidated Forest Products in Bear Creek, Alabama - where craftsmanship meets sustainability.
Mill Creek Lumber Products Inc.
15.7 km
Explore Mill Creek Lumber Products in Haleyville, Alabama, your one-stop destination for top-quality lumber, hardware, and expert advice.
Unique Apparel
15.7 km
Explore Unique Apparel in Haleyville for exclusive clothing that captures the essence of local fashion and style.
Mays Wholesale Flowers
16.8 km
Discover the enchanting world of fresh blooms at Mays Wholesale Flowers in Haleyville, Alabama, where quality meets beauty.
Goar's Supermarket
18.2 km
Discover local flavors and fresh produce at Goar's Supermarket in Haleyville, Alabama, a must-visit for grocery shopping and regional specialties.
Haley House
18.3 km
Explore Haley House in Haleyville, Alabama for exceptional formal wear, personalized styling, and an unforgettable shopping experience.
The Darling Daisy
18.8 km
Discover unique local crafts and stylish finds at The Darling Daisy, the charming boutique in Haleyville, Alabama that captures the essence of Southern hospitality.
Farmers Home Furniture | Haleyville, AL
18.8 km
Discover quality furniture, appliances, and home goods at Farmers Home Furniture in Haleyville, AL – a shopper's paradise for home essentials.
PARKVIEW CABINETS
18.9 km
Explore exquisite craftsmanship at Parkview Cabinets in Haleyville, Alabama – where stylish designs meet affordability for your home.
Elliott True Value
19.0 km
Explore Elliott True Value in Haleyville, Alabama, your go-to destination for DIY supplies, tools, and expert home improvement advice.
Jolly Dans Hardware & General Store
19.1 km
Explore Jolly Dans Hardware & General Store in Haleyville, AL - Your one-stop shop for hardware, building materials, and local treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Backwoods Grill
2.8 km
Discover Backwoods Grill in Phil Campbell, Alabama – a family-friendly restaurant serving delicious comfort food in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
ICEE E's Sno Biz
7.0 km
Experience the refreshing flavors of ICEE E's Sno Biz in Hackleburg, Alabama, where delightful sno cones and icy treats await you.
El Fogon Hackleburg
7.1 km
Experience the heart of Southern cuisine at El Fogon Hackleburg, where every dish tells a story of Alabama's rich culinary heritage.
Rowdy Hogs Smoke House and Grill
7.1 km
Discover the authentic taste of Alabama at Rowdy Hogs Smoke House and Grill, where barbecue dreams come true in a cozy setting.
Phil Campbell Nutrition
7.4 km
Explore the refreshing taste of health at Phil Campbell Nutrition, where every juice is a step towards a nourishing lifestyle.
Serendipity 35564
7.4 km
Experience the charm of Southern cuisine at Serendipity 35564, where every meal is crafted with love and local ingredients.
Faelynn's Place
7.5 km
Experience the warmth of southern hospitality and delectable local cuisine at Faelynn's Place in Phil Campbell, Alabama.
Homestead Cafe
8.6 km
Experience the heart of Southern hospitality at Homestead Cafe, where comfort food meets charming ambiance in Spruce Pine, Alabama.
Swisher hotdogs
8.9 km
Experience the true taste of Alabama with customizable hot dogs at Swisher Hotdogs in Spruce Pine, where every bite is a taste of tradition.
B and J Cafe
15.8 km
Discover the heart of Southern cuisine at B and J Cafe in Phil Campbell, Alabama, where comfort food and warm hospitality await.
Rancho Mexican Restaurant
16.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Rancho Mexican Restaurant, where authentic dishes and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
El Paso Bar & Grill
17.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Paso Bar & Grill in Haleyville, Alabama, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and culture.
13 Grill
17.7 km
Discover the taste of Alabama at 13 Grill, where grilled perfection meets Southern hospitality in Haleyville.
Restaurante Guatemex
17.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Guatemala at Restaurante Guatemex, Haleyville's culinary gem for authentic dishes and warm hospitality.
Haleyville Sno Biz
17.9 km
Experience the sweet and refreshing delights of Haleyville Sno Biz, your go-to destination for scrumptious snow cones and beverages in Alabama.
