The Little River is one of the few rivers in the world that remains on top of a mountain for its entire length.
The canyon was carved through the thick Pottsville sandstone cap of Lookout Mountain.
The preserve is home to the federally endangered green pitcher plant, which is endemic to the region.
The river system is considered one of the cleanest in the southern United States.
The park contains the remains of historic homesteads and remnants of the Civilian Conservation Corps work from the 1930s.
Little River Falls is technically a 'hinge fault' waterfall where the water drops over a fault line.
Little River Canyon National Preserve protects one of the longest mountaintop rivers in the United States, which flows for most of its length atop Lookout Mountain. The preserve features a deep canyon carved by the Little River, reaching depths of up to 700 feet. The landscape consists of sandstone cliffs, forested uplands, and multiple waterfalls, including the 45-foot Little River Falls. It encompasses over 15,000 acres of diverse ecosystems, including rare plant species like the Kral's watercress. Visitors can access the canyon via the 11-mile Little River Canyon Rim Parkway, which offers numerous overlooks. The area supports recreational activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking on trails ranging from easy walks to rugged treks. The river itself is notable for its unusually high water quality, classified as an Outstanding National Resource Water.
The main overlook at Little River Falls provides the most iconic vantage point of the water cascading into the gorge.
Download offline maps before arrival, as cellular service is highly unreliable within the canyon.
Check the Little River Falls water levels online before planning water-based activities.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain is predominantly uneven sandstone and rock.
Attempting to swim or wade above the main falls, where currents are deceptively strong and dangerous.
Park roads and facilities may occasionally close during severe weather or hazardous winter conditions; check alerts before departing.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive bluff flora and prevent erosion; pack out all trash.
