Waterfalls in Alabama are some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring natural wonders in the entire state. From cascading waterfalls that plunge into deep pools to gentle ribbon falls, Alabama has an abundance of breathtaking waterfalls to explore. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a weekend adventure, these stunning waterfalls should be at the top of your list.
List of Top Waterfalls to Visit in Alabama
1. Caney Creek Falls
Caney Creek Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Bankhead National Forest of Alabama. The falls are split into two sections, both cascading down from an impressive height of 35 feet. This picturesque spot is nestled in a deep canyon and surrounded by lush vegetation. Visitors to Caney Creek Falls can enjoy its beauty from several vantage points along a short loop trail that runs through the surrounding woods.
The area around Caney Creek Falls offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. There are several hiking trails nearby, including one that takes visitors up to the top of the falls for even more amazing views. Anglers will also find plenty to do here, as there are numerous fishing spots along Caney Creek where they can try their luck at catching bass and catfish. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax or an exciting adventure outdoors, Caney Creek Falls has something for everyone!
With its beautiful scenery and variety of activities available, this natural wonder should not be missed on your next trip to Alabama!
Caney Creek Falls Trail, Double Springs, AL 35553
2. Griffin Falls
Griffin Waterfall is a stunning natural waterfall located in the Bankhead National Forest of northwest Alabama. The fall cascades over a rocky cliff face, creating an impressive sight and sound. The nearby creek also adds to the scenery with its babbling waters that meet up with the mighty falls. Visitors can enjoy this spectacular view by taking a short hike along one of several trails that lead to the falls.
Some trails provide access from nearby roads while others require more strenuous hiking through dense woodlands or along steep hillsides. The most popular trail for reaching Griffin Waterfall is the 2-mile loop trail found off Highway 33 near Double Springs, AL. This route winds through shady woods before arriving at an overlook where visitors can take in views of both the top and bottom sections of Griffin Falls as well as surrounding forested areas below.
In addition to viewing Griffin Falls, hikers may spot wildlife such as deer and wild turkey on their journey. With its vibrant colors and powerful cascades, it’s no wonder why many people consider Griffin Waterfall one of north Alabama’s most beautiful attractions!
Griffin Falls, AL 35962
3. Noccalula Falls
Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden, which features an impressive 90-foot plunge down Black Creek Gorge as well as several other smaller waterfalls along the creek’s course. Visitors can access all of these breathtaking scenes by taking one of three different hiking trails or riding on an old-fashioned train ride around the gorge’s perimeter.
1600 Noccalula Road, Gadsden, AL 37350
4. Welti Falls
Welti Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Marshall County, Alabama. The falls are part of the Flint Creek Watershed and flow into Lake Guntersville. Welti Falls is about 30 feet tall and cascades over a rock ledge that creates several different levels of waterfalls. This makes for great sightseeing and photography opportunities as well as providing an ideal spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks nearby.
The area surrounding Welti Falls is also known for its hiking trails, camping sites, picnic areas, fishing spots, and birdwatching opportunities. Birdwatchers may be able to catch glimpses of bald eagles soaring overhead or osprey diving into the lake below while fishermen can cast their line in hopes of catching some bass or catfish from one of the many docks around Lake Guntersville. No matter what brings you to Welti Falls it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Whether you’re looking to relax by taking in the gorgeous views or spend your time exploring all that nature has to offer this stunning location will not disappoint!
3372 County Rd 703, Cullman, AL 35055
5. Devil’s Den Falls
Devil’s Den Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Bankhead National Forest of Alabama. It is one of the most popular waterfalls in the state, and for good reason! The falls are approximately twenty-five feet high and cascade into a large pool at their base. The surrounding area is filled with lush greenery, giving visitors an opportunity to explore nature while taking in breathtaking views.
Visitors can reach the falls via a short hike from an access road off of Highway 33 near Double Springs. The Devil’s Den Falls have been around for centuries but remain relatively unknown outside of local residents. Legend has it that Native Americans used this site as a sacred burial ground; however, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Regardless, many people flock to these waters each year to take advantage of its beauty and serenity. Visitors should plan ahead when visiting Devil’s Den Falls as swimming and other activities may be prohibited during certain times due to safety reasons or low water levels caused by drought conditions or seasonal changes in rainfall patterns throughout Alabama.
6. Little River Falls
For those interested in exploring further downriver, there are two more smaller but equally stunning falls downstream from Noccalula Falls – Little River Falls and DeSoto Falls – both just as impressive! Little River Falls drops 40 feet over a sandstone ledge into a pool below, while DeSoto Falls plummets 104 feet through several tiers before reaching its final resting place at the bottom of Lookout Mountain Gorge. Both falls can be accessed via hiking trails that lead directly to each cascade’s base.
472 Alabama Hwy. 35, Gaylesville, AL 35973
7. Salt Creek Falls
Salt Creek Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Bankhead National Forest of northwestern Alabama. It stands at an impressive 60 feet high, making it one of the highest waterfalls in the state. The falls can be seen from both sides of Salt Creek and is accessible via a short hike through lush forest terrain. The area surrounding Salt Creek Falls is known for its picturesque beauty and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers alike.
There are several trails that lead to the falls, including an easy 0.5-mile loop trail with interpretive signs along the way that explain interesting facts about local wildlife, plants, and geology. In addition to hiking opportunities within Bankhead National Forest, nearby attractions include Dismals Canyon Natural Preserve – home to eight species of rare ferns – as well as Bear Branch Nature Trail which offers stunning views from atop Lookout Mountain’s bluffs. Visitors can also explore numerous caves in this area or take part in fishing activities on nearby lakes such as Smith Lake or Lewis Smith Lake.
Talladega National Forest, Near Hopeful Falls, AL 35581
8. Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls located near Double Springs in Winston County AL boasts one long 40 foot drop followed by three shorter tiers making it quite unique compared other waterfalls found throughout Alabama! Although access isn’t always easy due its remote location (the closest road is roughly 2 miles away), it’s definitely worth seeing if you ever happen upon it while exploring nearby trails or driving through back roads – just don’t forget your camera because this picturesque sight mustn’t go undocumented either!
Other notable spots include Cheaha State Park near Anniston (home to High Falls) and Dismals Canyon Nature Preserve near Phil Campbell (which offers seven separate waterfalls). Overall there are countless amazing waterfalls scattered across Alabama each offering its own special beauty and experience worth discovering firsthand so why not plan your next outdoor adventure today?!
Dismals Canyon: 901 County Rd 8, Phil Campbell, AL 35581
9. Cheaha Falls
Cheaha Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Talladega National Forest near Heflin, Alabama. It is one of the most visited waterfalls in the state and offers an impressive view from its 60-foot drop. The falls are accessible via a short hike on the Cheaha Trail, which is part of the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail system.
The trail to Cheaha Falls begins at Bald Rock parking area and winds along a ridge before descending to reach the base of the falls. Along this route, hikers will have views of nearby mountains as well as glimpses of wildlife such as deer, hawks and wild turkeys that inhabit this region. Once at the base of Cheaha Falls, visitors can capture breathtaking photos or simply enjoy watching nature’s beauty unfold around them while they take in all its glory.
Due to its location within national forest land, there are no amenities available here. Whether you come here with family or friends for a day trip or just want to escape into peacefulness alone with your thoughts – Cheaha Falls provides something special for everyone!
2141 Bunker Loop, Delta 36258, AL 35553
10. Thompson Falls
Thompson Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Bankhead National Forest near Double Springs, Alabama. The falls are situated at the end of a short trail and can be easily accessed by most visitors. Thompson Falls is made up of two tiers with a total height of approximately 20 feet.
The lower tier cascades down about 10 feet over large boulders into a small plunge pool below. The upper tier drops another 10 feet from an impressive rock ledge that frames the scene perfectly. Visitors can admire both tiers from several vantage points on either side of the creek bed. During times when rainfall is plentiful, Thompson Falls creates an impressive sight as it thunders down its steep incline into its shallow plunge pool below. At these times, visitors should take caution around slippery rocks and fast-moving currents created by the heavy flow of water over them as they approach or traverse downstream along this picturesque cascade.
In addition to viewing this majestic waterfall, hikers may also spot various wildlife species such as white-tailed deer and wild turkey while exploring nearby trails within Bankhead National Forest’s boundaries. This area boasts some beautiful scenery including scenic overlooks that provide breathtaking views out across heavily wooded hillsides and valleys filled with lush vegetation year round—a perfect backdrop for any outdoor adventure!
Huntsville Meridian, Marshall County, AL 35976
11. Highfalls Creek Waterfall
Another popular spot for waterfall lovers is Cheaha State Park located near Heflin, AL. Here visitors will find Highfalls Creek Waterfall which tumbles through a rocky gorge before spilling into Lake Chinnabee below. The surrounding terrain offers plenty of hiking opportunities with spectacular views along the way including Bald Rock Vista Point where one can get an up close look at this magnificent cascade! There is also nearby Devil’s Den Nature Trail where hikers can traverse through unique rock formations that have been carved out over centuries by wind and rainwater runoff from Highfalls Creek above them!
12. Neversink Falls
Neversink Falls is a beautiful natural waterfall located in the Bankhead National Forest, Alabama. The falls plummet 30 feet into a large pool surrounded by rocks and lush vegetation. This stunning area is accessible via the Neversink Trail which can be found off of AL-33 near Double Springs. The hike to Neversink Falls is an easy one mile loop that takes you through some of the most scenic areas of Bankhead National Forest.
Along your journey, you’ll pass several smaller cascades before reaching the main attraction: Neversink Falls itself! As you approach it, its thundering sound will fill your ears and its majestic beauty will take your breath away. Once at the base of Neversink Falls, there are plenty of opportunities for swimming or just wading around in the cool waters below; however, if you’re feeling adventurous enough why not take a dip from one of the nearby cliffs? It’s an experience like no other!
There are also plenty of spots to have lunch or just relax and enjoy nature’s wonders all around you. If visiting this amazing place has inspired you to explore more natural wonders in Alabama then head over to Little River Canyon National Preserve where there are several waterfalls as well.
Unnamed Road, Fackler, AL 35746
13. Tallassee Falls
For those who prefer something a bit more accessible without having to hike too far off trail then Tallassee Falls might be right up their alley! Located within Talladega National Forest not far outside Sylacauga, Tallassee Falls features two separate drops totaling about 20 feet each with great swimming holes below perfect for cooling off during hot summer days! Additionally, if you keep following upstream past these main falls there are several smaller cascades all worth checking out too so make sure not to miss them when visiting here!
14. Chewacla Falls
Chewacla Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Chewacla State Park in Auburn, Alabama. The falls are created by the 30-foot drop of Chewacla Creek into Lake Martin. The park itself features 696 acres of forests and rolling hills that offer plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
The main attraction at Chewacla Falls is the impressive 30-foot waterfall cascading down from the top of a limestone cliff into Lake Martin below. Visitors can get an up close view by accessing one of several trails that lead to different vantage points overlooking the falls. There are also two observation decks with handrails so visitors can safely admire this natural wonder without having to venture too far off the beaten path.
Aside from admiring the beauty of Chewacla Falls, there’s plenty more to do in and around the park as well! Swimming, fishing, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are all popular activities onsite while nearby attractions such as Tuskegee National Forest provide even more recreational opportunities for those looking for some adventure away from home.
Chewacla State Park: 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, AL 36830
15. Kinlock Falls
Kinlock Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the state of Alabama. The falls are situated on the Little River, which flows through northern Alabama and into Mississippi. The falls have a total height of approximately 25 feet, with two tiers cascading down to create an impressive sight. The area around Kinlock Falls has been enjoyed by locals for centuries due to its natural beauty and secluded location. Despite being relatively unknown outside of local circles, it remains popular amongst hikers, campers, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
There are several trails that lead visitors up close to the falls for breathtaking views from both sides of the riverbank. The surrounding forest is home to abundant wildlife as well as various species of fish. Visitors should also be sure to look out for bald eagles which often soar above this part of Alabama during winter months.
Kinlock Falls is one of many stunning waterfalls throughout Alabama’s great outdoors.
1070 Highway 33, Double Springs, AL 35553, Phone: 205-489-5111
16. DeSoto Falls
DeSoto Waterfall, located in the heart of Alabama’s Little River Canyon National Preserve, is a spectacular natural wonder that visitors from all over the country come to marvel at. The falls are named for Hernando de Soto, who explored this area in 1540 and likely stopped here to admire the beauty. DeSoto Waterfall is one of only two waterfalls in Alabama that cascade over sandstone rock bedding; it has an impressive 75-foot drop into a large pool below. The waterfall can be seen from several different vantage points along Highway 176 near Mentone.
Visitors may choose to view the falls from atop Lookout Mountain or take a short hike down into the canyon where they can get up
close and personal with nature’s handiwork. There is also an observation deck next to the falls which provides excellent views of both its upper and lower sections as well as some incredible photo opportunities!
On sunny days, DeSoto Falls sparkles like diamonds cascading down its rocky face while providing a unique backdrop for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, camping or simply relaxing by its shores. Swimming is allowed but not recommended due to dangerous currents under certain conditions; however there are plenty of spots around for picnicking or just taking in all this stunning scenery has to offer!
DeSoto State Park: 7104 Desoto Pkwy. NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967, Phone: 256-845-0051
17. Secret Falls
Secret Falls is a hidden waterfall located in Alabama’s Bankhead National Forest, near the town of Double Springs. The falls are situated on a tributary of the Sipsey River and can be accessed by taking County Road 222 from Double Springs. It is said to be one of Alabama’s most beautiful waterfalls, as it cascades down an embankment into a large pool below that is perfect for swimming or simply admiring its beauty.
The Secret Falls trail begins at the parking lot off CR222 and follows along an old logging road until you reach the creek bed where you will find several small pools before reaching the main event – Secret Falls! The trail continues past this point but becomes much
more difficult as it ascends up steep slopes and passes through dense foliage.
The area around Secret Falls has been designated by The Nature Conservancy as part of their “Last Great Places” Program, meaning that it must remain largely undisturbed in order to preserve its natural beauty. As such, camping and fires are not allowed near the falls so visitors should plan accordingly if they want to spend time exploring this unique location.
Dismals Canyon: 901 County Rd 8, Phil Campbell, AL 35581
18. Cold Water Falls
Cold Water Falls is a popular waterfall located in the Bankhead National Forest of Alabama. It is situated near Double Springs, and it cascades down into a crystal-clear pool at the base of its 30-foot drop. This beautiful natural attraction offers visitors an opportunity to marvel at its majestic beauty while also taking part in some activities such as swimming and fishing.
The falls are accessible by car on County Road 28 off Highway 33, approximately four miles north of Double Springs. There is a parking lot available for those wishing to visit Cold Water Falls, but due to its popularity it can fill up quickly during peak times. Once parked, there is a short walk uphill until you reach the entrance point where you will find several trails that lead to different viewing points around the falls. Swimming and wading are allowed in certain areas below Cold Water Falls. However, safety should always be taken into consideration when engaging in water activities here as there are hidden rocks and strong currents beneath the surface.
Spring Park: 1 Spring Park Road, Tuscumbia, AL 35674, Phone: 256-383-0783
19. Mardis Mill Falls
Mardis Mill Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Bankhead National Forest near Double Springs, Alabama. The falls are formed by Mardis Mill Creek which cascades over a sandstone cliff into a deep pool below. This picturesque waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in this area of Alabama and draws visitors from all around to enjoy its beauty. The creek that feeds Mardis Mill Falls has been dammed up at various points throughout history, resulting in different levels of water flow depending on when you visit.
During periods of high rainfall or snowmelt, the volume can increase significantly and create an impressive spectacle as it rushes through the rock formations. On days with lower water flow, visitors can still admire the dramatic view from atop the cliff where they can look down onto the pool below and take advantage of photo opportunities framed by surrounding foliage.
In addition to admiring its scenic beauty, many people come here for activities such as swimming or fishing in the crystal-clear waters beneath Mardis Mill Falls. Hiking trails also run along both sides of Mardis Mills Creek allowing visitors to explore further upstream before reaching another breathtaking view point at Little River Canyon National Preserve nearby.
Overall there’s no doubt that visiting Mardis Mill Falls will provide an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to explore nature’s wonders within Alabama!
546 Mardis Mill Rd, Blountsville, AL 35031
20. Peavine Falls
Peavine Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in the Bankhead National Forest of northern Alabama. The falls are about 30 feet high and have an impressive cascade, dropping into a deep pool below. Peavine Falls can be accessed via a short hiking trail from the nearby parking lot, making it an easy destination for hikers of all skill levels.
The area around Peavine Falls offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Hikers can explore miles of trails through the surrounding forest or take a dip in one of the many small swimming holes scattered throughout the area. Wildlife such as deer, turkey, and even black bears can often be seen near the falls.
A visit to Peavine Falls is sure to provide visitors with some amazing scenery and unforgettable memories! Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an adventurous trek, this beautiful spot has something special to offer everyone who visits its stunning cascades!
200 Terrace Drive, Pelham, AL 35124
History of Waterfalls in Alabama
The history of waterfalls dates back to ancient times. Ancient civilizations used waterfalls as a source of power and energy, with some using the cascading motion of falling water to drive mills or other machinery. Waterfalls were also seen as symbols of beauty and mystery, inspiring stories and myths throughout many cultures around the world. The use of waterfalls for hydroelectricity began in 1880 when James B. Francis built the first large-scale electricity generating plant at Niagara Falls.
This ushered in an era where hydropower was widely used across North America and Europe, powering cities and providing energy for industry. In modern times, many countries have turned away from large scale hydroelectric projects due to environmental concerns but continue to utilize smaller scale facilities which generate clean renewable energy from rivers or streams with no adverse impacts on local ecosystems.
Location and Map of Waterfalls in Alabama
Check out our Alabama Waterfalls Map for even more locations and directions on some of the states best falls to visit.
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