One Of Alabama's Most Beautiful Waterfalls Flows Into A Perfect Swimming Hole Paradise

When it comes to providing natural wonder in the American South, Alabama remains a hidden gem. While it's known for its terrific barbecue and legendary college football team, the "Cotton State" also boasts white sand beaches, deep forests, and the southernmost point of the Appalachian Mountains, as seen from the lofty Cheaha State Park. For some reason, travelers seem to ignore this beautiful state in pursuit of more popular destinations –– which also come with droves of other travelers to deal with.

Alabama is also a great destination for people drawn to freshwater pursuits, as the state has a wealth of lakes, rivers, and jaw-dropping cascades such as Little River Falls. One of three named falls in the Little River Canyon National Reserve, this 45-foot waterfall draws visitors not just for its natural beauty, but also for the amazing swimming found just downstream. In addition to Little River Falls, the surrounding reserve also offers an array of activities for nature lovers, including hiking, kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, birdwatching, rock climbing, and more. This rugged region of Alabama flies well underneath the national radar, which may be why it has managed to remain so unspoiled and wild.

Situated just over two hours northeast of the city of Birmingham by car, Little River Falls was an important place for the local Native American tribes who called the region home for centuries. During the American Civil War, the area saw several engagements between Union and Confederate forces, which left their mark on the state's history as well as the land. These days, the sound of rifles and cannon fire is just a distant memory swallowed up by the rush of the river and the roar of the falls.

Little River Falls is accessible via a parking lot off Highway 35, though on spring and summer weekends the lot can fill up by 11 a.m., so plan accordingly. An ADA-accessible boardwalk leads to a good viewpoint, and visitors wishing to access the falls directly and take a swim in its massive pool can do so from the parking area. Nearby Little Falls (also called Martha's Falls or Hippie Hole) is also worth checking out and is very popular in the summer. The water flow at Little River Falls varies depending on the time of year. The river is at its swiftest in the winter and spring when heavier rainfall brings the falls to their full power. In summer and autumn, the falls are at their lowest (and safest).

Established in 1992, the Little River Canyon National Preserve is a 15,288-acre park dedicated to protecting the unique Little River ecosystem, which includes several threatened plant and animal species. Carved into the top of Lookout Mountain, the canyon reaches depths of 600 feet in certain spots, making it one of the deepest gorges east of the Mississippi.

While there are numerous ways to explore Little River Canyon, one of the most popular methods is by kayak or canoe. Since it's almost an entirely rain-fed river, it's only navigable from November through April. Just be sure to expect to experience some thrilling Class III to Class VI rapids. While the area above the falls is appropriate for beginners, only highly experienced kayakers should attempt the whitewater below the falls. Make sure to check the water flow rate online before you set out. 

Hiking is also a great way to experience the Little River Canyon National Preserve. There are many paths that match any level, including the Little River Canyon Trail –– an easy 2.2-mile out-and-back path. There is also the 3-mile Laurel Falls Trail Loop, and for those looking for something more challenging, the 10.5-mile Desoto State Park Scout Trail is a great choice. This trail also features terrific opportunities for birdwatching. For more awesome waterfalls in the Southeast, check out the region's largest cascading waterfall in Georgia.