Best Waterfalls in Alabama: 12 Local Favorites & Hidden Gems
Melanie Johnson
Author
It is no secret that we love chasing the best waterfalls in Alabama. If you’re an avid OnlyInYourState reader, you’ve probably seen many of our articles over the years. But this list is unlike any other…and chances are, you’ll agree! You’ll find the tallest cascades, the best waterfall trails, as well as some easy-access waterfalls for folks who prefer no hiking. So, if you’ve recently searched for “waterfalls near me” or you simply need to add some new hidden gems to your list, come with us on this adventure to explore 12 of the most incredible cascades in Alabama.
We encourage you to plan a road trip to visit all the beautiful waterfalls on our list. So, here’s a Google map to give you an idea of where our picks for the best Alabama waterfalls are located.
Be sure to plan accordingly for your trip, as you will need yummy road trip snacks, hiking and camping gear, and you’ll also need a comfortable hotel near a major Alabama city to rest on your trip. Now that all the technical stuff is out of the way…if you’re ready, let’s begin our epic adventure to witness these stunning natural wonders in Alabama!
Tallest Waterfalls In Alabama
Alabama might not have the tallest waterfalls in America or in the south, but the state is home to several towering cascades that are quite impressive. It’s not every day that you get to witness 100+ foot waterfalls, so you’ll want to see these natural wonders for yourself. Check out 3 of the biggest waterfalls in Alabama that will literally take your breath away.
1. Grace's High Falls, Fort Payne
Of course, we had to begin our list with Grace's High Falls tucked inside the Little River Canyon National Preserve. At 133 feet, it’s the tallest waterfall in Alabama and it’s as impressive as it sounds. Visiting this beautiful gem will take some pre-planning as the water flow is dependent on rainfall. So, the best time to witness this stunning cascade is after a good rain or during the spring or winter months. From the overlook, this awe-inspiring natural wonder will leave you speechless.
2. DeSoto Falls, Mentone
Desoto State Park on Lookout Mountain is an enchanting gem that is brimming with some of Alabama's best treasures. One of which is DeSoto Falls at 105 feet tall. Only a few yards from the parking lot, the upper portion of the waterfall at the A.A. Miller Dam can be viewed by folks of all abilities. While you’re there, don’t miss your chance to also explore Laurel Falls, Lost Falls, and Indian Falls. These trailheads are dotted with wildflowers, making them among the prettiest hikes in Alabama, especially during the spring.
3. Noccalula Falls, Gadsden
No need to go to New York to see Niagara, not when there is a mini version in Alabama. Just head to Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden. Yes, I know that Noccalula Falls (formerly known as Black Creek Falls) is nowhere as impressive as Niagara Falls, but it’s one of the prettiest waterfalls in the state. You can understand why this 90-foot natural beauty is one of the most popular waterfalls in Alabama. There is no hiking needed to see this waterfall, but for a different perspective, you can trek the 3-mile Black Creek Trail to the bottom of the falls and walk behind it. Now, that is the best kind of bucket list worthy waterfall adventure!
Best Waterfall Hikes In Alabama
There is nothing better than an exhilarating hike through the woods to discover Alabama’s hidden gems. The journey is usually just as thrilling as the reward. If you agree with me, then you’ll absolutely love these waterfall hikes in Alabama. Hikers and nature enthusiasts, grab your hiking gear and let’s trek to see 3 of the most impressive Alabama waterfalls.
4. Chinnabee Silent Trail: Cheaha State Park, Delta
Tucked inside Talladega National Forest, Chinnabee Silent Trail is an exhilarating 7-mile hike boasting some of Alabama's natural beauty. While you trek through the forest, you’ll encounter scenic waterways, wildflowers, footbridges, mountain vistas, and of course, waterfalls. Cheaha Falls is a pretty little cascading waterfall complete with a swimming hole. Not only is it a great spot for swimming, but it’s great for picnics, too. You won’t regret spending the day or perhaps tent camping surrounded by the beautiful scenery.
5. Pisgah Gorge Falls Trail, Pisgah
There is not one but two waterfalls at Pisgah Civitan Park - Upper and Lower Pisgah Gorge Falls. With multiple waterfalls measuring over 600 feet, overlooks, towering cliffs, a canyon, and a roaring river, stretched over this 1.5-mile out-and-back trail, you’re in for a real treat. If you love chasing waterfalls in Alabama, this hidden gem is one you must add to your list.
6. Kinlock Falls Trail: Bankhead National Forest, Double Springs
There are 2 rewards waiting at the end of the short trek to Kinlock Falls. Not only will you see one of Alabama’s prettiest waterfalls, but you’ll also be treated to one of the best swimming holes in the state. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, bring your swimming gear because you’ll want to cool off inside the gorgeous emerald pool.
Accessible Waterfalls In Alabama (No Hiking Required)
On our quest to find some of the best cascades in Alabama, I am so happy to know that there are beautiful waterfalls that are accessible to folks with all abilities. Similar to DeSoto Falls and Noccalula Falls, no hiking is required for these natural wonders. A leisurely stroll from the parking area is all that’s needed. And trust me, these no hiking waterfalls in Alabama are truly out of this world. Here are 2 of the ones we like the best.
7. Little River Falls, Fort Payne
As the crown jewel of Little River Canyon National Preserve in Lookout Mountain, Little River Falls is a sight to behold. This breathtaking 45-foot waterfall can be viewed from an easy-to-navigate ADA accessible boardwalk, or you can venture to the bottom of the falls to marvel at the picture-perfect emerald swimming hole. Chances are, you'll fall in love with this awe-inspiring waterfall located in the southern region of the Appalachian Mountains.
8. Cold Water Falls: Spring Park, Tuscumbia
One of the most incredible man-made waterfalls in the world, the impressive Cold Water Falls stands at 80 feet wide and 48 feet tall. Made from over 2,000 pounds of sandstone and with over 4 million gallons of water flowing over the tiered waterfall each day, you can easily see why this is one of the most visited attractions in Alabama. Not to mention that the waterfall is accessible and can be reached with a short stroll along paved surfaces. Plus, there’s even a light show that the entire family can enjoy. You’ll want to add this waterfall to your list.
Best Waterfalls near Birmingham
You might know Birmingham for its role in the Civil Right movement, but did you know that it’s also surrounded by some of the most picturesque waterfalls in Alabama? It’s true! In fact, the pretty Moss Rock Preserve Falls in Hoover is less than 15 miles from the city. Read on to discover 4 more incredible waterfalls near Birmingham Alabama that are great for a day trip.
9. Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, Pinson
Just 15 miles outside of Birmingham, is Turkey Creek Nature Preserve in Pinson. Here you’ll find 2 pretty waterfalls and swimming holes. As you can see from the image above, the 25-foot Turkey Creek Falls is simply stunning! At 500-acres, the preserve is great to spend the day hiking, mountain biking, and it’s also a sanctuary for birdwatching. Moreover, the preserve hosts lots of educational programs throughout the year.
10. Peavine Falls: Oak Mountain State Park, Pelham
If you’ve never been to Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, what are you waiting for? You’re missing out on Alabama's largest state park AND seeing Peavine Falls. From Birmingham it's a short 20-minute drive, and a 2-mile hike will lead you to the greatest reward - the 65-foot-tall Alabama waterfall. The park also has fishing lakes, equestrian, biking, and hiking trails. You can rent a kayak or spend the day on the sandy beach. It’s a great park for the entire family to enjoy.
11. High Falls: High Falls State Park, Grove Oak
Would like to take a day trip from Birmingham to see a waterfall? If so, we recommend High Falls in Grove Oak. It’s located inside High Falls State Park that’s only 90 miles away from Birmingham. The 35-foot-tall natural wonder is worth the drive as after a good rain it could span over 300 feet wide. The roaring falls flow into a pretty turquoise pool that is a popular spot for locals to go swimming. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day marveling at this jaw-dropping waterfall in Alabama.
12. Devil's Den Falls, Lineville
Take a quick 70-mile trip from Birmingham to see Devil's Den Falls that’s nestled inside Cheaha State Park in Delta. Enjoy another pretty 10-foot waterfall with a swimming hole. You’ll be engulfed with beautiful woodland scenes and high rocks that’s perfect for jumping into the pool. It has become one of Alabama’s most popular swimming holes and it’s easy to see why. The park also offers lots of outdoor activities, and it’s home to the highest point in Alabama - Cheaha Mountain. There will be plenty to do on your trip to Alabama’s oldest state park.
By no means did we cover all the best waterfalls in Alabama. So, do us a favor and tell us which waterfalls we missed so that we can cover them in our next waterfalls series. Or tell us how many of these beautiful cascades in Alabama you have witnessed for yourself.
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