In the north of the Deep South state of Alabama is Little River Canyon National Preserve. In having a National Preserve, Alabama almost has a national park. The national preserve protects the spectacular Litter River Canyon and the pristine Little River as well as a number of rare and threatened species in the zone. Alongside the national preserve is also the smaller but more developed state park.
Sweet Home Alabama is a state often overlooked, but it is a state that has a lot to offer and there are a number of reasons why one should visit. Not all of Alabama's attractions and state parks are on the surface either, the Cathedral Cavern State Park is full of subterranean wonders and is wanting to be discovered.
What Makes Little River Canyon So Special
The preserve is located just to the west of the main Appalachian Mountain uplift and is composed of sandstone and other sedimentary rocks. The hands of nature have eroded this area over millions of years to create a landscape of stunning ridges, outcropping, gorges. Little River Canyon has been carved into the top of Lookout Mountain reaching depths of over 600 feet.
- Size: 15,288 Acres (11,042 Acres of Which Are Federally Owned And Managed)
- Wildflower Blooming Season: Usually From March To November
- Fall Colors: Normally From First of October To Middle of November
While nothing like the spectacular canyons in the West, the Little River Canyon is the deepest in Alabama and one of the deepest east of the Mississippi River.
One can enjoy a whole range of recreational activities in the preserve like climbing, fishing, swimming, hiking, as well as whitewater paddling.
- Activities: Climbing, Swimming, Whitewater Paddling, Hiking, Hunting
The river is said to be among the wildest and the cleanest in the South and is the source of some of the state's most spectacular waterfalls. The three major waterfalls along the river are the DeSoto Falls, the Little River Falls, and the seasonal Grace's High Falls.
- Grace's High Falls: Falling 133 Feet or 41 Meters, It Is Alabama's Highest Waterfall
For visitors wanting to hike to the bottom of the canyon, the best spot is Eberhart Point. Here there is a rough and eroded path that is the remnants of a vehicle access way. The access way was part of an abandoned ski life and amusement park project from the 1960s.
Visiting The Little River Canyon
- Camping: Camping Is Not Permitted In The Canyon
The river is popular with whitewater enthusiasts, but one needs to be willing to carry the craft down to Pine Tree Hole in the canyon.
The preserve is a great destination for families and is ideal for picnicking, hiking, and gazing out over lookouts on the scenic drive (the Country Road 176). Other activities for the more adventurous include rappelling/rock climbing, hunting, and kayaking.
- Pets: Pets Must Be On a 6 Foot Least At All Times
Operating Houses & Seasons:
- Jacksonville Uni Little River Canyon Center: Tuesday to Saturday 10.00 am to 4.00 pm
- Scenic Drive, Overlooks, Trails, Backcountry Area: No Fee, Open Daily From Sunrise To Sunset
Canyon Mouth Park Day Use Area:
- Open: Daily From 8.00 am to 5.00-7.00 pm (Season Dependant)
- Fee: $15 Day Use Pass Fee Per Vehicle
The Neighboring DeSoto State Park
Located on the river near the Little River Canyon National Preserve is the DeSoto State Park. One of its most notable attractions is the DeSoto Falls. While the National Park Service doesn't offer many visitor facilities in the national preserve, the adjacent state park has a lodge, restaurant, several campgrounds, and other facilities.
The DeSoto State park offers lodging facilities including Mountain Chalets, Log, and Rustic Cabins, Motel Rooms, and an Improved Campground. There are also primitive camping sites and two backcountry campsites with shelters.
- Size: 3,502 Acres
- Hours: Lodge Front Desk 24-7 Year Around
- Park Trails/Picnic Areas: Open From Dawn to Dusk
At the state park, one can enjoy an Olympic-sized swimming pool (open seasonally), the Benefield Interpretive Center, Civilian Conservation Corps Museum, a restaurant, pavilions, and meeting rooms. The park also has over 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails.
- Trails: Over 30 Miles of Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails
Most of the park's trails are interconnected with each other but others take one into relatively remote areas. One will see interesting rock formations, small seasonal waterfalls, and more on the trails. The terrain runs from easy to strenuous and the maps for the trails can be downloaded from the state park's website.
One notable walk is the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk trail it runs for 360 yards and can be enjoyed by all people of all abilities.