12 Breathtaking Waterfalls You’ll Find in Alabama

It is no secret that we love chasing the best waterfalls in Alabama. If you're an avid Only In Your State reader, you've probably seen many of our nature articles over the years. But this list is unlike any other... and chances are, you'll agree. Whether you prefer tall cascades, the best waterfall trails, or some easy-access waterfalls for folks who prefer no hiking, you'll absolutely fall in love with the following 12 incredible cascades in Alabama.

Ready to explore more waterfalls beyond the state border? From jaw-dropping cascades to swimmable emerald ponds, there are countless magnificent waterfalls found across the United States to explore.

Tallest Waterfalls in Alabama

Alabama might not have the tallest waterfalls in America or the South, but it's home to several towering cascades that are quite impressive. It’s not every day that you get to witness 100+ foot waterfalls, so you’ll want to see these natural wonders for yourself. Check out three of Alabama's biggest waterfalls that will take your breath away.

1. Grace's High Falls, Fort Payne

• Location: Fort Payne, Alabama
• Popularity: Very popular overlook
• Need to Know: Easy, accessible waterfall that can be viewed from an overlook near Highway 35.

Our list begins with Grace's High Falls, tucked inside the Little River Canyon National Preserve. At 133 feet, it’s the tallest waterfall in Alabama, and it’s as impressive as it sounds. Visiting this beautiful gem requires preparation, as the water flow is dependent on rainfall. The best time to witness this stunning cascade is after a good rain or during the spring or winter months. You'll be left speechless at this awe-inspiring overlook.

2. DeSoto Falls, Mentone

• Location: Mentone, Alabama
• Popularity: Extremely popular state park with multiple waterfalls
• Need to Know: Parts of the waterfall can be viewed by folks requiring wheelchair accessibility. Also, the water flow is better during the spring and winter months.

Desoto State Park on Lookout Mountain is an enchanting gem brimming with some of Alabama's best treasures. One of which is DeSoto Falls at 105 feet tall. Only a few yards from the parking lot, the upper portion of the waterfall at the A.A. Miller Dam can be viewed by folks of all abilities. While you’re there, don’t miss your chance to see Laurel Falls, Lost Falls, and Indian Falls. These trailheads are dotted with wildflowers, making them among the prettiest hikes in Alabama, especially during the spring.

3. Noccalula Falls, Gadsden

• Location: Gadsden, Alabama
• Popularity: Very popular tourist attraction
• Need to Know: Accessible waterfall. You'll need to pay an admission fee for this attraction in northeast Alabama. Kids under the age of 3 are free.

No need to go to New York to see Niagara, not when there is a mini version in Alabama. Just head to Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden. Yes, I know that Noccalula Falls (formerly known as Black Creek Falls) is nowhere as impressive as Niagara Falls, but it’s one of the prettiest waterfalls in the state. You can understand why this 90-foot natural beauty is one of the most popular waterfalls in Alabama. No hiking is required, but for a different perspective, you can trek the 3-mile Black Creek Trail to the bottom of the falls and walk behind it. Now, that is the best kind of bucket list-worthy waterfall adventure.

Best Waterfall Hikes in Alabama

There is nothing better than an exhilarating hike through the woods to discover Alabama’s hidden gems. The journey is usually just as thrilling as the reward. If you agree with me, then you’ll absolutely love these waterfall hikes in Alabama. Hikers and nature enthusiasts, grab your hiking gear, and let’s trek to see three of the most impressive Alabama waterfalls.

4. Chinnabee Silent Trail: Cheaha State Park, Delta

• Location: Delta, Alabama
• Popularity: Cheaha State Park is extremely popular during the summer.
• Need to Know: This is a popular spot for locals to swim, so to avoid the crowds, hike this trail during the weekdays. Leashed dogs are welcome.

Tucked inside Talladega National Forest, Chinnabee Silent Trail is an exhilarating 6-mile hike boasting some of Alabama's natural beauty. While you trek through the forest, you’ll encounter scenic waterways, wildflowers, footbridges, mountain vistas, and of course, waterfalls. Cheaha Falls is a pretty little cascading waterfall complete with a swimming hole. Not only is it a great spot for swimming, but it’s great for picnics, too. You won’t regret spending the day or perhaps tent camping surrounded by the beautiful scenery.

5. Pisgah Gorge Falls Trail, Pisgah

• Location: Pisgah, Alabama
• Popularity: Hidden gem that is somewhat popular
• Need to Know: The trail can be rocky and steep in certain places. Be warned, there are high cliffs with no rails.

There are not one but two waterfalls at Pisgah Civitan Park: Upper and Lower Pisgah Gorge Falls. With multiple waterfalls measuring over 600 feet, overlooks, towering cliffs, a canyon, and a roaring river, stretched over this 1.5-mile out-and-back trail, you’re in for a real treat. If you love chasing waterfalls in Alabama, this hidden gem is one you must add to your list.

6. Kinlock Falls Trail: Bankhead National Forest, Double Springs

• Location: Double Springs, Alabama
• Popularity: Not very popular, as it's not easy to find.
• Need to Know: Tucked inside the Sipsey Wilderness Area, this parking area and trailhead are not well marked. The short 0.2-mile trail can also be slippery, so proper footwear is essential.

Two rewards are waiting at the end of the short trek to Kinlock Falls. Not only will you see one of Alabama’s prettiest waterfalls, but you’ll also be treated to one of the best swimming holes in the state. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, bring your swimming gear because you’ll want to cool off inside the gorgeous emerald pool.

Accessible Waterfalls in Alabama (No Hiking Required)

On our quest to find some of the best cascades in Alabama, I am so happy to know that there are beautiful waterfalls that are accessible to folks with all abilities. Similar to DeSoto Falls and Noccalula Falls, no hiking is required for these natural wonders. A leisurely stroll from the parking area is all that’s needed. And trust me, these no-hiking waterfalls in Alabama are truly out of this world. Here are two of the ones we like the best.

7. Little River Falls, Fort Payne

• Location: Fort Payne, Alabama
• Popularity: Extremely popular waterfall and swimming hole
• Need to Know: There is a small parking area off Highway 35 that usually fills up by 11 a.m., so we recommend you arrive early.

As the crown jewel of Little River Canyon National Preserve in Lookout Mountain, Little River Falls is a sight to behold. This breathtaking 45-foot waterfall can be viewed from an easy-to-navigate ADA accessible boardwalk, or you can venture to the bottom of the falls to marvel at the picture-perfect emerald swimming hole. Chances are, you'll fall in love with this awe-inspiring waterfall located in the southern region of the Appalachian Mountains.

8. Cold Water Falls: Spring Park, Tuscumbia

• Location: Tuscumbia, Alabama
• Popularity: Extremely popular park with a lighted waterfall
• Need to Know: Located inside Tuscumbia Spring Park, admission is free, but there are nearby kiddie rides that require a small fee.

One of the most incredible man-made waterfalls in the world, Cold Water Falls stands at 80 feet wide and 48 feet tall. Made from over 2,000 pounds of sandstone and with over 4 million gallons of water flowing over the tiered waterfall each day, you can easily see why this is one of the most visited attractions in Alabama. Not to mention that the waterfall is accessible via a short stroll along paved surfaces. Plus, there’s even a light show that the entire family can enjoy. You’ll want to add this waterfall to your list.

Best Waterfalls Near Birmingham

You might know Birmingham for its role in the Civil Rights Movement, but did you know that it’s also surrounded by some of the most picturesque waterfalls in Alabama? It’s true! In fact, the pretty Moss Rock Preserve Falls in Hoover is less than 15 miles from the city. Read on to discover four more incredible waterfalls near Birmingham, Alabama, that are great for a day trip.

9. Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, Pinson

• Location: Pinson, Alabama
• Popularity: Popular for educational programs and birdwatching
• Need to Know: Admission is free, but the preserve is always closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and on major holidays, so plan accordingly.

Just 15 miles outside of Birmingham is Turkey Creek Nature Preserve in Pinson. Here, you’ll find two pretty waterfalls and swimming holes. At 500 acres, the preserve is great for spending the day hiking and mountain biking, and it’s also a sanctuary for birdwatching. Moreover, the preserve hosts lots of educational programs throughout the year.

10. Peavine Falls: Oak Mountain State Park, Pelham

• Location: Pelham, Alabama
• Popularity: Extremely popular state park
• Need to Know: There is an admission fee to enter this park. The trail is an easy, kid-friendly hike. Be sure to visit after a good rainfall.

If you’ve never been to Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, what are you waiting for? You’re missing out on Alabama's largest state park and seeing Peavine Falls. From Birmingham, it's a short 20-minute drive, and a 2-mile hike will lead you to the greatest reward—the 65-foot-tall Alabama waterfall. The park also has fishing lakes, equestrian trails, and biking and hiking trails. You can rent a kayak or spend the day on the sandy beach. It’s a great park for the entire family to enjoy.

11. High Falls: High Falls State Park, Grove Oak

• Location: Grove Oak, Alabama
• Popularity: Extremely popular waterfall and swimming hole.
• Need to Know: The park is free. It is also kid-friendly and dog-friendly. If you don't want to get wet, enjoy the views from the footbridge and pack a picnic lunch.

Would you like to take a day trip from Birmingham to see a waterfall? If so, we recommend High Falls in Grove Oak. It’s located inside High Falls State Park, approximately 90 miles away from Birmingham. The 35-foot-tall natural wonder is worth the drive, as after a good rain, it could span over 300 feet wide. The roaring falls flow into a pretty turquoise pool—a popular spot for locals to go swimming. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day marveling at this jaw-dropping waterfall in Alabama.

12. Devil's Den Falls, Lineville

• Location: Lineville, Alabama
• Popularity: Extremely popular spot for locals
• Need to Know: There is an admission fee to enter the park, and it varies by age. To avoid the crowds, do not plan your trip during the summer months.

Take a quick 70-mile trip from Birmingham to see Devil's Den Falls, nestled inside Cheaha State Park in Delta. Enjoy another pretty 10-foot waterfall with a swimming hole. You’ll be engulfed by beautiful woodland scenes and high rocks that are perfect for jumping into the pool. It's easy to see why it's become one of Alabama’s most popular swimming holes. The park also offers lots of outdoor activities, and it’s home to the highest point in Alabama—Cheaha Mountain. There will be plenty to do on your trip to Alabama’s oldest state park.

By no means did we cover all the best waterfalls in Alabama. If you're looking to discover even more of our state's natural wonders, check out this waterfall road trip itinerary and break the trip up by spending the night in several charming towns along the way. For even more lodging, dining, and sightseeing recommendations, Only In Your State's itinerary planner can help you out.