Dismals Canyon, Alabama: Explore A Lush Oasis By Day And A Glowing Fairytale By Night
By Jessica Wick|Published March 16, 2021
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Jessica Wick
Author
Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
When it comes to Bucket List-worthy destinations, a few obvious destinations stand out – the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, the Florida Keys, among others – but here’s one location that may have escaped your attention if you live outside of its immediate region.
Tucked away in Alabama’s northwest corner lies a lush sandstone gorge known as Dismals Canyon. This 85-acre oasis is not exactly a hidden gem, but there are plenty of unspoiled groves and grottos to enjoy some peace and quiet. This tranquil treasure was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1975 by the National Natural Landmarks Program, and it’s a desired destination for both locals and visitors from across the country.
Dismals Canyon is located about 12 miles south of Russellville, just off US-43 between Russellville and Hamilton on Highway 8.
Rainbow Falls was once the source of power for a great mill and water wheel that a flood took out in the 1950s. There are 27 species of native trees around Secret Falls, which flows from an underground mountain stream.
A 1.5-mile hiking trail on the canyon floor will take you past both waterfalls and give you an up-close-and-personal look at all the native plant life.
There's even a spot known as Witches Cavern, a labyrinth of moss and fern-covered boulders.
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Speaking of fairytales and enchantment, Witches Cavern happens to be where you'll find the largest colony of Dismalites, which are only found in a few areas around the world.
Dismalites are tiny glow worms that light up the dark caverns of the canyon. They're related to the rare glow worms found in Australia and New Zealand.
Curious? You can book a Dismalite Night Tour beginning each March, and they're available for most of the year.
Made of Western Red Cedar, they feature vaulted ceilings, stone fireplaces, and hardwood floors. You can even book a massage during your stay (which you can also do if you're camping). And if you forgot something you need, just stop by the Country Store.
This place is a botanist's paradise -- 350 different species of Exotic Flora have been identified while exploring the canyon.
There's a lot to see in Alabama, but if you only have time for one major outing, you won't regret making it this one.
Until you can see it for yourself, enjoy this virtual tour on YouTube by Scott Neverdusky:
You’ll find the latest schedule and seasonal updates on the official Dismals Canyon website.
General Information:
Accessibility: Unfortunately, the canyon floor is not wheelchair accessible. There are stairs to use in order to get down onto the canyon floor, and the trail is on very uneven terrain.
Pet Friendly: Dogs are allowed, but they must remain leashed at all times.
Parking: Park in designated parking spaces and parking lots only. Please do not park on the grass.
Seasonal Access: Dismals Canyon opens for the season in March, and closing dates vary. Cabins and group tours are available by reservation year-round except for February. The schedule is subject to change, so check the Dismals Canyon website.
Cost: There is an admission fee to enter the canyon floor. Self-guided tours are $12 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $8.75 for youth. Two-day passes that include one night tour are $30 for adults, $27 for seniors, and $21.25 for youth.
