DeSoto Falls — 104ft Cascade in Alabama

DeSoto Falls is a 104-foot cascade waterfall in DeKalb County, Alabama, reached by an easy walk over 0.8 miles.

DeSoto Falls is the iconic 104-foot cascade inside DeSoto State Park atop Lookout Mountain in northeastern Alabama — a wide, two-stage cascade where the Little River drops over a sandstone ledge into a deep plunge pool used by locals for summer swimming. The state park was developed by the CCC in the 1930s and still preserves much of that-era stonework around the overlooks. The 0.8-mile loop trail accesses both upper and lower viewpoints; spring runoff (March-May) is the dramatic season, summer drought reduces the flow significantly.

What to expect

Drive into DeSoto State Park (north of Fort Payne, AL) and pay the day-use fee at the gate. Park near the falls overlook lot. Walk the short paved path to the upper overlook. The 0.8-mile trail loops down to the swimming hole at the base — moderate stairs. Swim at your own risk; rocks under the surface are unmarked. Pair with the longer Talmadge Butler hiking trails or the historic CCC pavilion area.