Alabama’s Scenic Waterfall Loop Takes You to 6 Incredible Falls

Spring and summer are the best times to go chasing waterfalls, but sometimes mapping out the best route can feel too daunting. We’ve come up with the perfect Alabama waterfall loop that will take you to some of Alabama’s best waterfalls, so you can just load up the car and take off.

All in all, this waterfall road trip in Alabama covers 195 miles and takes about five hours to complete. Of course, you’ll want to stay at each cascade for a while and really explore the area, so go ahead and give yourself the entire day—better yet, make a weekend out of it!

If you’d prefer a shorter adventure, we have another Alabama waterfall road trip that clocks in at two hours.

1. DeSoto Falls: One Of Alabama’s Most Famous Waterfalls

Your first stop is DeSoto Falls. DeSoto Falls is located atop Lookout Mountain near Mentone, Alabama. It plunges 104 feet into a pool of water and is considered one of the state's most beautiful waterfalls. DeSoto Falls is also one of the most easily accessible waterfalls in Alabama, which makes it all the more sweet.

2. Indian Falls: A Quick And Easy Stop Inside DeSoto State Park

Following a short drive, you'll arrive at Indian Falls. Indian Falls is located at DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne, Alabama. It only takes a short walk from the parking lot to reach it. Since most folks visit the popular DeSoto Falls, Indian Falls is a bit of a hidden gem! While you're in the area, consider taking some time to explore the hidden gems in DeSoto Falls State Park. There's another hidden waterfall within this state park worthy of a side quest!

3. Little River Falls: The Crown Jewel of the Route

Next, you'll arrive at Little River Falls. Little River Falls is one of the main attractions at Little River Canyon National Preserve in Fort Payne, Alabama. In addition to being one of Alabama's top swimming holes, it's also one of the Southeast's most recognizable waterfalls. As you can see, you can explore the falls from above and, depending on water levels, enjoy some sunbathing just feet from the top of the falls!

4. High Falls: Especially Impressive After Heavy Rain

Your next stop will be High Falls. High Falls is the main attraction at High Falls Park in Grove Oak, Alabama. This 35-foot-tall waterfall is a popular swimming hole that can stretch as wide as 300+ feet after a heavy rainfall. The trail to High Falls is less than a mile and has some truly beautiful water views as you get closer to the waterfall.

5. Noccalula Falls: Delivers One of Alabama’s Most Dramatic Views

Next, you'll arrive at Noccalula Falls, the main attraction at Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden, Alabama. This beautiful waterfall plunges 90 feet into a lush ravine and is oftentimes called "Alabama's Niagara Falls." It may not be one of the most hidden waterfalls in Alabama, but this one is worth any crowds you encounter.

6. Pisgah Gorge Falls: Ends the Trip With a Hidden-Gem Feel

Your last stop will be Pisgah Gorge Falls. Tucked away in a secluded park at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the Pisgah Gorge is one of the most beautiful places in Alabama. Pisgah Gorge Falls is actually two different waterfalls that measure approximately 600 feet, and they’re spread out over 1.5 miles. Each fall is about 100 feet tall, and seeing it in person is mesmerizing.

Other Alabama Waterfall Road Trips:

There are so many Alabama waterfalls to enjoy; it really just depends on your schedule! Here are some of our favorite waterfall road trips in Alabama so you can mix and match to fit your needs.

• The Ultimate 1-Day Waterfall Road Trip from Birmingham
• 2-Hour Waterfall Loop in Northeast AL
• Cave & Waterfalls Road Trip near Huntsville, AL
• Tallest Waterfalls Road Trip in Alabama

There really isn’t a bad time to take this Alabama waterfall loop. Spring brings fresh blooms, summer is the perfect time for swimming, and who could resist these Alabama waterfalls surrounded by fall foliage? Even winter brings a quiet beauty that’s often overlooked. No matter when you decide to take this waterfall road trip in Alabama, you’re sure to enjoy yourself.