Little River Canyon - A Hidden Gem in Alabama

Little River Canyon National Preserve in Alabama is one of the deepest canyons east of the Mississippi and a beautiful place with countless things to do.

Pro Tip: If you put your Google Maps directions to the park, make sure you set it to the Canyon Center (opens at 10AM). We set it to the nature preserve and we ended up driving 20 minutes in the wrong direction, but it was cool because we saw some amazing views on the drive!

Once you get to the canyon center you can get a map, which shows a description of all 10 hiking trails along State Road 176. At the end of road is the Canyon Mouth Park which is the only fee area ($15 per car).

Here is a full list of all the trails:

Official trail map showing all hiking options at Little River Canyon

Things We Did

• Little River Falls: A 45-foot waterfall that serves as the gateway to the canyon. Honestly, really beautiful. If you go a little off-trail you can walk above the waterfall and just explore the vast area. If you are into climbing, theres a rock in the back left corner near the bridge which is pretty good for bouldering.
• Canyon Rim Drive: An 11-mile scenic drive with multiple overlooks (a must-see in the fall)
• Eberhart Trail: One of the deepest parts of the canyon where you can walk along the river. FYI the trail down is steep — like really steep. However, it is not too long and worth it to check out. You could probably spend a whole day down here or host a picnic.
• Little Falls (also called Martha's Falls/Hippie Hole): I lied.... we didn't go here, but we saw the entrance! The trail to it begins at Little River Falls, and is marked with a sign that says Little Falls. The ranger told us this is popular swimming hole. Next time I come here I am most definitely swimming (the water on a hot summer day is the perfect temperature to cool off)
• Beaver Pond Trail: 100% would not recommend...there are no views and a lot of overgrowth. There is no pond, but rather a puddle.
• Lower Two Mile Trail: A 0.4 mile roundtrip rock scramble with a small beach at the bottom. I love rock scrambles so this was perfect and really fun.

Tips for Visitors

• The water can be dangerous after heavy rains, so always check conditions before swimming
• If you come during the summer months, most definitely swim — the water is sooo nice
• Pack a picnic lunch and most definitely spend some time at one of the many overlooks (there are A LOT)
• The visitor center near Little River Falls offers helpful information and clean restrooms
• Parking can be limited during peak times, especially at the falls area
• Bring plenty of water and sun protection, especially in summer months
• There is A LOT to do here...your day can vary depending on your group and your interests; I would recommend going to the visitor center and asking to help plan your itinerary.