Desoto Falls in Alabama is a must-see scenic spot for nature lovers. This waterfall is located in Fort Payne, northwest of Desoto State Park. Standing at 104 feet tall, it’s a stunning sight to be seen. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, creating a beautiful setting that’s perfect for a family day out.
The best part? You don’t need to be an expert hiker to enjoy Desoto Falls. There’s a convenient paved path leading to an overlook, providing a great view of the waterfall without a strenuous hike. But, if you’re up for something a little more challenging, there’s an option to hike to the base of the falls for a closer and more immersive experience.
If you love the outdoors, this is an incredible spot to visit. You can bring your family along for a day of hiking, maybe even pack a picnic to enjoy by the falls. The tranquility of the surroundings and the raw beauty of the waterfall make it a memorable experience.
Hike to the Base Of Desoto Falls Alabama
Desoto Falls Trailhead Address: 986 Co Rd 613, Mentone, AL 35984
Parking Area: The parking area is a small gravel parking lot right off County Rd 613. There are no bathrooms or any services other than parking at the Desoto Falls Trailhead.
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 1.5 mile loop
Elevation Gain: 232 ft.
Dog Friendly: Yes
Cost: FREE
Average Hiking Time: 1 hour
Desoto Falls Trail Map
Hiking Route:
On the way down take the River Trail
On the way up take the River Trail – Bluff Trail – River Trail (Bluff Trail will allow you to see Icebox Cave)
Believe it or not, Desoto Falls Trailhead is not actually a part of Desoto State Park. It is located about 4.3 miles outside the state park.
At the trailhead, you’ll notice that there are 2 trails. One is the Overlook Trail and the other is the River Trail. These 2 trails don’t connect. The overlook view provides a distant view from the front of Desoto Falls. We didn’t feel this trail was necessary because we figured we’d get a closer, better view from the River Trail.
The start of the River Trail was a pretty easy descent in a dense forest. Parts of the path were covered in leaves. The leaves got pretty slick in some areas and caused us to slip a few times. The further in we got, the rockier it got. It wasn’t bad, it just meant you needed to keep looking down or you might trip over a rock.
Once you reach Desoto Falls you’ll be impressed with how tranquil it is. At least, it was for us, as we were the only ones there. We visited Desoto Falls in winter and everything was brown. I can only imagine what it looks like in the springtime with lush greenery and blooming flowers.
On your way back follow River Trail up Lookout Mountain to Bluff Trail. While hiking Bluff Trail keep your eyes peeled for large rock formations and Ice Box Cave. It’s a cool attraction, both literally and figuratively, especially during hotter months. On our hike, the kids were excited to explore Icebox Cave and we even spotted a wild armadillo nearby, making the experience even more memorable. Eventually, Bluff Trail will meet back up with River Trail and you’ll follow that back to the parking lot.
Overall my family really enjoyed hiking to Desoto Falls. The moderate trail is most challenging on the way back when you have to hike up Lookout Mountain. Other than a few slick areas and the elevation, it wasn’t bad. Just take your time and rest when needed.
Desoto Falls Overlook in Alabama
Desoto Falls Picnic Area Address: Just off Desoto Falls Road
Dog Friendly: Yes
Hours: Open Daily till Dusk
Cost: $4
To get to Desoto Falls Overlook follow the paved path from the parking lot. This short walk will lead you down 50 concrete stairs to the railed overlook.
The overlook takes very little time to explore, but the picnic area has so much more to offer. Some amenities that can be found at Desoto Falls Picnic Area are the upper falls, picnic tables, historic A. A. Miller Dam, restrooms, a small boat launch, swimming, and fishing. Some amenities are seasonal. For example, the bathrooms were not open when we visited in January.
DeSoto Falls is the most visited waterfall in scenic northeast Alabama. When the weather is warmer or on weekends, finding parking can be a bit challenging. It’s important to note that parking along the road is not allowed. Therefore, if you plan to visit during the peak season, it’s advisable to arrive early to ensure you secure a parking spot.
There is no access for larger vehicles like RV’s and trailers…
Planning Your Desoto Falls Getaway
Best Time to Visit Desoto Falls
The best times to visit DeSoto Falls are in spring and fall when nature puts on a colorful show with blooming flowers or vibrant foliage. These seasons offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities. If you want a less crowded experience, weekdays, especially from Monday to Thursday, are the way to go. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, and you can enjoy the falls with fewer people around. The summer months are the busiest time, especially on weekends. It’s hot and you will encounter larger crowds. To avoid the rush, consider visiting early in the day or during the less busy weekdays. Checking local events and arriving early can help you make the most of your visit.
Practical Tips To Keep Your Trip Budget-Friendly
Keeping your trip to DeSoto Falls budget-friendly involves smart planning and making cost-effective choices. Here are some practical tips:
- Accommodations: Look for affordable accommodation options in nearby areas, not just Fort Payne. Booking in advance or considering off-peak seasons can help you find cost-effective choices. Also, consider camping at Desoto State Park.
- Travel Expenses: Use reward points to help offset the cost. For example, we use Hilton rewards and often get our hotels for free. Upside and Fetch app can help you get money back on gas and food purchases.
- Pack your food: Instead of dining out, pack your own food and consider having picnics while out exploring. Enjoying a meal by the falls can be both budget-friendly and a delightful experience.
- Free or Low-Cost Activities: Explore the many free or low-cost activities available, such as hiking the trails or enjoying the scenic views. Nature provides the main attraction, and it’s often free.
- Research Entrance Fees: Be aware of any entrance fees or costs for guided tours. Some areas may have free access, while others require a nominal fee. Researching in advance helps you budget for these.
- Weekday Visits: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Planning your visit on a weekday not only ensures a quieter experience but may also lead to lower accommodation costs.
- Gear: Figure out what gear you’ll need in advance. This will give you time to purchase it on sale.
- Check for Discounts: Look for discounts on entrance fees, accommodations, or local attractions. Some places offer discounts for students, seniors, or military personnel. You can check out Groupon, Living Social and Alabama All in 1 tickets.
- Consider Off-Peak Seasons: Visiting during off-peak seasons can often result in lower costs for accommodations and fewer crowds.
- Pack Essentials: Avoid unnecessary expenses by packing essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen. Buying these items on-site can be more expensive.
By incorporating these budget-friendly tips into your trip planning, you can enjoy the beauty of DeSoto Falls without breaking the bank.
Read: How To Travel On A Budget
Things To Do Near Desoto Falls
Bethel Spring Falls
Unclaimed Baggage
Little River Canyon National Preserve
U.S Space & Rocket Center
Fun Facts About Desoto Falls
- Named After a Spanish Explorer: DeSoto Falls is named after the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, who was one of the first Europeans to explore the southeastern United States in the 16th century.
- Impressive Height: Standing at 104 feet tall, DeSoto Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Alabama, making it a striking natural wonder.
- Two Viewing Options: Visitors can enjoy the falls from an overlook with a convenient paved path, or they can opt for a more adventurous experience by hiking to the base of the waterfall.
- Historical Significance: The area has historical significance tied to Native American history, early European exploration, and the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps, contributing to its cultural richness.
- Camping Opportunities: The vicinity of DeSoto Falls provides camping opportunities, allowing you to extend your stay and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, experiencing DeSoto Falls in Alabama is an incredible adventure, and there are two wonderful ways to witness its natural beauty – from the convenient overlook with a paved path or by immersing yourself in a short hike to the base for a more adventurous outing. Whether you prefer the ease of the overlook or the thrill of a hike, each option offers a unique perspective of this beautiful waterfall.
Have you explored DeSoto Falls? Share your favorite route or any hidden gems nearby that you discovered in the comments below!
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