The Little River is one of the longest mountaintop rivers in the United States.
Many of the park's stone structures were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression.
The park is situated on the same geological plateau that extends into Tennessee and Georgia.
The waterfall at the main DeSoto Falls site drops 104 feet into a deep, rocky pool.
The park contains segments of the 11-mile DeSoto Scout Trail, which dates back to the 1960s.
DeSoto State Park is located atop Lookout Mountain in Fort Payne, Alabama, and is renowned for its series of cascading waterfalls along the Little River. The park encompasses over 3,500 acres of forested terrain with over 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. DeSoto Falls, one of the tallest and most visited waterfalls in the state, features a 104-foot drop. The park's infrastructure, including the lodge and several cabins, was largely constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s. The Little River, which flows through the park, is unique because it is one of the few rivers in the United States that flows almost entirely on top of a mountain. Geologically, the area is characterized by sandstone bluffs and deep gorges. Recreational facilities include a lodge, chalets, rustic cabins, and developed campsites. The park remains open year-round for outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, and picnicking.
The railed overlook platform at the main DeSoto Falls provides the clearest vantage point of the drop.
Visit the waterfall overlook in the early morning to avoid the largest crowds.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots, as the terrain around the gorge is rocky and uneven.
Check the park's digital map before starting your hike, as some trails are multi-use for mountain bikes.
Do not attempt to swim or climb on the rocks near the top of the waterfalls, as the currents and surfaces are extremely dangerous.
Stay on marked trails to protect the delicate sandstone cliff ecosystems; pack out all trash.
