Dogs … First from a long distance overlook: Linda drastically improves the beauty of the place! DeSoto State Park has numerous waterfalls throughout the park. Desoto State Park Family Bike Loop is a 2 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Fort Payne, Alabama that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. To visit the falls, head east from Fort Payne on AL-35 and turn left on DeSoto Parkway. You will need to take a few steps off the main trail to fully enjoy the beauty of the falls before continuing along the blue trail. The Lost Falls and Cascade Falls waterfall is the hardest to find in DeSoto State Park, mostly because when no water is flowing, it is truly lost! Find Chuck: A cairn memorializing the man who was the first to bring electricity to the area by building the dam above the falls: I am detecting a theme here - a dam just above water falls. The best time to see this small 5 foot waterfall is in spring or winter seasons. More Laurel Falls from Lost Falls Trailhead is a 2 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Fort Payne, Alabama that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. This is the larger of the two falls, falling nearly twenty feet. You will reach the point where you turned onto the blue trail; again taking the orange trail back the trailhead. DeSoto Falls is easily accessed by car and a walk down stairs to see the falls. Lost Falls is located about 1.5 miles from DeSoto’s Country Store and terrain can be moderate to mildly strenuous. DeSoto Falls, the largest falls is easily accessible by car just a few miles north of the main park. A. Miller Dam & the upper falls can be seen by visitors of all abilities, but the lower or main waterfall requires a walk down concrete stairs to the overlook. DeSoto State Park is conveniently located only 8 miles northeast of Fort Payne, Alabama; and DeSoto Falls - also part of DeSoto State Park - is located about 7 miles north of the park heading towards Mentone, Alabama. ... #5 - Desoto State Park Family Bike Loop. A. Miller Dam & the upper falls can be seen by visitors of all abilities, but the lower or main waterfall requires a walk down concrete stairs to the overlook. The intersection is marked by a large boulder on the left of the trail. The elevation change is moderate through the trail except for a few small up and downs when crossing the creek. (bikes allowed) CCC Trail - 1 mile. One of the most popular hikes is the Orange and Blue trail loops that take you to Lost Falls and Laurel Falls. Can be accessed by the Gillam Loop Trailhead or the DeSoto State Park Lodge (via the Chalet Trail-.7 miles) As you make your way along the creek, the trail meanders through the woods until you reach Lost Falls. Past Indian Falls, the DST descends to the riverside. Go 3.5 miles to a 4-way stop, During the summer and early fall, the water level is much lower & sometimes dry. The largest park within the Pinellas County Park System, Fort De Soto park consists of 1,136 acres made up of five interconnected islands (keys). Most of these smaller falls are located … After 0.8 miles, turn right at the T-intersection. This trail is best accessed by the Gilliam Loop Trailhead (past the DeSoto State Park cabins. When water levels are low and the fall is not flowing, it can appear truly lost. (2) Join the Family Bike Loop Trail and continue .4 mile north to a junction. The hike to the falls is about 1.5 miles round trip and moderate. (7 miles from the main park area). Waterfalls are the key feature of DeSoto State Park, located in northeastern Alabama on top of Lookout Mountain. The waterfall is located in DeSoto State Park. A great place to cool off during the small, the falls has a large reflecting pool at the bottom. (4) Turn south onto the unnamed path and walk .6 … 4. 7104 DeSoto Parkway NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967 www.alapark.com/DeSotoResort DeSoto State Park Trail Map Camping & General Info: 1-800-760-4089 Lodging, Restaurant, Events: 1-800-568-8840 To DeSoto Falls: Head north on CR 89 from park, turn left at T-intersection. At the Laurel creek, take the blue trail across the bridge and follow it along the basin. The blue trail descends back to the creek. You'll notice the trail crosses a few DeSoto Scout Trail Emergency Exit signs. There are bathroom facilities there as well. This waterfall is the hardest to find in DeSoto State Park, mostly because when no water is flowing, it is truly lost! The stream is seasonal; during spring offering the best view. Situated atop Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama, this park provides waterfalls, wildflowers, meeting rooms, cabins, campsites, and miles of hiking/mountain biking trails. Fee: Free and open to everyone, no pre-registration required. Visitors will enjoy a beautiful lake, picnic area, grills, and other facilities as well as the waterfall.The amount of water going over the falls depends on the amount of rainfall. Little River Falls - Fort Payne Falling fifteen feet, this fall can easily be missed during drier months. 4. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips and is accessible year-round. Alabama’s Scenic Waterfall Loop Will Take You To 7 Different Waterfalls. Pets Hiking Family Barefoot. Desoto State Park has over 28 miles of trails on park property. The boardwalk is 360 yards long through wooded slopes and moist forest floor. Located just off the Lookout Mountain Parkway, the waterfall is reached via a paved pathway that leads a few hundred yards from the parking lot, down approx. This easy to find waterfall is located just behind DeSoto’s Lodge. Trip stats Distance: 7.7 miles Time: 2 days Turn-by-turn From the DeSoto Picnic Area (1) Follow the orange-blazed Laurel Falls Trail south to the park road at mile 2. Tennis shoes work fine as well. This 3.1 mile loop trail features a waterfall and is accessible year-round. The amount of water going over this seasonal waterfall depends on the amount of rainfall. The vegetation is mostly pines and with scattered hardwoods. Starting on the wooden walkway from the parking lot, the eastern loop combines the Red, Orange, and Blue trails for a 2.4-mile loop that explores a mixed deciduous forest on gentle terrain. Effort. During the summer and early fall, the water level is much lower.Grace’s Falls Overlook Website. DeSoto State Park’s trail system boasts interesting rock formations, small seasonal waterfalls, a variety of diverse plant communities, plentiful animal life, and beautiful views of the West Fork of Little River, which flows downstream into interconnecting Little River Canyon. Located in the Little River Canyon National Preserve a several miles South of DeSoto State Park, this 133 foot waterfall is one of the tallest in the state. Laurel Falls requires a very short hike off the trail and is marked by a stone with its name which can easily be seen. Indian Falls is about 0.1 miles from the trailhead and is easily reached over a small footpath. (3) Head west on the Never-Never Land Trail, wrapping counterclockwise to a fork at mile 3.9. The best time to see this small 5 foot waterfall is in the Spring or Winter seasons. Indian Falls is a lovely waterfall that's located within DeSoto State Park. The DeSoto Falls Picnic Area is open daily during daylight hours. This 4.2-mile figure 8 in DeSoto State Park is one of Alabama's best kept trail secrets. Starting at the Lost Falls trailhead, hikers can begin there walk down the orange trail across the road from the parking lot. Taking the red trail across the creek and up the hill towards the campgrounds, you will pass by and through several large boulders before intersecting with the orange trail at the top of the hill. Laurel Falls is a 6-foot waterfall on Laurel Creek in DeKalb County. Rated Moderate. There are some great hiking trails and six smaller waterfalls to see in the park and we had a really nice time exploring around. It is about 0.75 miles from DeSoto’s Country Store and the trail is rugged & moderate with some uphill climbs. The Little River Falls parking area is open daily during daylight hours, The amount of water going over the falls depends on the amount of rainfall. There are also many smaller falls located along the hiking trails inside of DeSoto State Park. Within the park, there are more than four other falls which can be accessed by short hikes. Nestled atop Lookout Mountain and surrounded by 3,502 acres of fragrant wildflower trails and rushing waterfalls, modern chalets, rustic cabins and campsites welcome visitors to this unique park. This small cascade flows into a pool located at the end of the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail. In the winter and early spring the water level is high. It's the perfect hike to reflect on the year ahead. Within DSP, from the northern border going south, the DST has a great trailbed and travels along the bluff line. DeSoto State Park Waterfall Loop. The best time to see this small 5-foot waterfall is in the Spring or Winter seasons. Lost Falls is located about 1.5 miles from Desoto’s Country Store and terrain can vary between moderate and mild. Visitors wanting to catch a glimpse of the Lost Falls or Laurel Falls have several trailhead options to access these points of interest. You will also see some views of the Little River gorge and some of the CCC's work on this moderate mountaintop hike. Can be accessed by … 50 steps, and down to the railed overlook. Following the orange trail, you will transverse along a path forested with pines and hardwoods. As you approach the creek, large areas of exposed sandstone rock make up the surface of the trail. Azalea Cascade. If you enjoy a great hike, some nice views and water features; this is a trail you will want to check out. This small but beautiful waterfall can be found off of the orange trail and falls about 6 feet. View Britton's Recording. The 11-plus miles of bike trails vary from kiddie loops on the Family Bike Loop to … DeSoto Falls in … If you’re hiking with family, it’s a great place for the kids to explore the overhangs and climb under them. Can be accessed by Lost Falls Trailhead ‘CCC Quarry Bike Loop’ roughly 5 miles. Little River Canyon National Preserve Website. The Graces Falls Overlook can be reached by taking the Canyon Rim Drive (AL Hwy 176) off of AL Highway 35. A 100-foot ADA-accessible boardwalk leads from the parking lot to an overlook near the falls. K Kohlhaas reviewed Desoto State Park Family Bike Loop. Listing of all hikes planned so far The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Green Trail - 1.0 miles (The Cabin Trail) This trail parallels the DST but follows the ridgeline behind the cabins at DeSoto State Park. This is one of the non-technical trails at DeSoto State Park. - See 363 traveler reviews, 356 candid photos, and great deals for Fort Payne, AL, at Tripadvisor. Time 2 hrs Loop Distance 3.0 mi Rating Scenic. The park shares a name with DeSoto Falls, a spectacular 107 foot waterfall located less than 6 miles from the main part of the park. In the winter and early spring the water level is high. The historic A. The best view point of this waterfall is reached by hiking down into a small ravine and then getting on the yellow trail for a short distance and coming back out next to the Lodge. Located in the Little River Canyon National Preserve 10 miles South of DeSoto State Park, 45-foot Little River Falls is located off Alabama Highway 35 in Fort Payne, Alabama. Located just off the Lookout Mountain Parkway, the waterfall is reached via a paved pathway that leads a few hundred yards from the parking lot, down approx. It also looks like a nice place to fish or kayak above the falls. It flows into a small ravine and is easily accessible via a small footpath. Some popular Mountain Bike Loops in DeSoto State Park: ‘Family Bike Loop ’-2.5 mile loop. The path itself is a mix of clay and large stone, offering a nice barefoot hike on a warm spring or summer day. DeSoto State Park Mountain Bike, Hike, Trail Running trails near Fort Payne, Alabama. Being a seasonal feature, the falls is best viewed after a good rain. During the spring, summer and fall, this area makes a great place for picnics or to hang up a hammock and enjoy the nature. The historic A. 50 steps, and down to the railed overlook. Again, as a seasonal feature, it is best viewed after a rain shower. Can be accessed by DeSoto State Park’s Country Store ‘Gillam Bike Loop’-3.5 mile loop. This trail is bi-directional loop trail. In the winter and early spring the water level is high. Crossing a small stream, you will soon come to Laurel Falls. ‘Never-Never Land Loop’ -3.8 mile loop. It meanders around a few creeks and waterfalls that flow into the River. Rated Moderate to Mildly Strenuous. Rated Moderate to Strenuous (due to inclines). The Graces Falls Overlook can be reached by taking the Canyon Rim Drive (AL Hwy 176) off of AL Highway 35. In the winter and early spring the water level is high. Watch your step, as there are several large rocks in the path after the falls. The blue trail continues higher up from the stream at this point as it makes it way past several boulders and rock overhangs. It parallels a road that takes you down to a CCC bridge, if you want to add some distance. DeSoto State Park is a beautiful park perfect for the whole family. Lost Falls is locate … learn more DeSoto State Park: Neat waterfalls - See 366 traveler reviews, 370 candid photos, and great deals for Fort Payne, AL, at Tripadvisor. Next day, we drove outside the main park to take in DeSoto Falls. Be sure to take a break and enjoy the coolness of this area. 13 trails with 8 photos DeSoto Falls is part of the state park, but located about 7 miles north of the main part. In some areas, the rough surface of the rock catch pools of water, making this section a bit of a wet hike. Come commune with Mother Nature as DeSoto State Park offers a family-friendly atmosphere that holds wonders for people of all ages! For any details, email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov. During the summer and early fall, the water level is much lower.Little River Canyon National Preserve Website, Located in the Little River Canyon National Preserve a several miles South of DeSoto State Park, this 133 foot waterfall is one of the tallest in the state. DeSoto State Park has numerous waterfalls throughout the park. The trail is marked with NEON GREENISH YELLOW blazes CCC Road - 1.8 miles. The trails have exposed roots and rocks so they are rated as moderate, and might be difficult for the very old or very young. Can be accessed by the Lost Falls Trailhead. DeSoto State Park Trail System. Dogs are also … I wanted to do a trail that was less crowded than DeSoto Falls but I will not do this one again that’s for sure. This hike occurred on Saturday, April 2nd, 2016. After completing a short hike to nearby De Soto Falls, I drove down to DeSoto State Park with a plan to make a loop out of several of the park… DeSoto Falls, the largest falls is easily accessible by car just a few miles north of the main park. Approximately 300 more signs are to be added before November, so it will be easier to find your way. Mountain Biking. This waterfall is the most difficult to find in DeSoto State Park. Alabama is filled with many waterfalls just waiting to be discovered. DeSoto Falls is one of the tallest and most visited waterfalls in Alabama; Named for Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto, the 107 foot waterfall is part of DeSoto State Park on Lookout Mountain. During the summer and early fall, the water level is much lower & sometimes dry. The trail meanders through a heavily wooded and crosses a small stream as it heads towards Laurel Creek. If time allows, explore more of DeSoto State Park with a moderate 2.3-mile loop trail called Laurel Falls and Lost Trails Loop. Located in DeSoto State Park is Laurel Falls Trail Loop. In the winter and early spring the water level is high. These keys are home to beach plants, mangroves, wetlands, palm hammocks, hardwoods and scores of native plants. The amount of water going over the falls depends on the amount of rainfall. August 6, 2020. This waterfall is the hardest to find in DeSoto State Park, mostly because when no water is flowing, it is truly lost! Where: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Meet at DeSoto’s Country Store & Information Center, will caravan to Lost Falls Trailhead. Lost Falls is located about 1.5 miles from DeSoto’s Country Store and terrain can be moderate to mildly strenuous. Can also be reached by the red trail behind the Country Store, Official Web site of Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, © 2021 Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The amount of water going over the falls depends on the amount of rainfall. One of six state park resorts, DeSoto Resort State Park is a nature lover's perfect destination. Lodge Falls drops about 25 feet and is very rainfall dependent. Within the park, there are more than four other falls which can be accessed by short hikes. DeSoto State Park: Don't miss the waterfall! A wooden footbridge crosses over the top of this beautiful sight. Turning west, you will pass several very large rock outcroppings, which when climbed, offer a great view of the valley during the winter months. This interesting waterfall falls about 20 feet into a small ravine, located just across the road from the Talmadge Butler Trailhead. 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