Get ready to be captivated by the beauty of Desoto Falls in Alabama! This waterfall is one you don’t want to miss. One thing that makes this waterfall so special- you can see it from three different angles! Whether you don’t feel like hiking, want just a short hike, or are up for a more challenging route- this waterfall has an option for you. Up for more of an adventure? See the waterfall from all three views! Read on for everything you need to know before visiting Desoto Falls.
Getting to the Trail Head
To get to the trailhead of Desoto Falls, you’re going to drive through Desoto Falls State Park, straight past the visitors center. I do recommend stopping in the visitors center before leaving the park. They have great maps of the park and other trails and state parks in Alabama. You’ll follow signs to the waterfalls, about a 5-10 minute drive from the visitors center. The trailhead to the overlook and base of the falls is located off the road, before you reach the picnic area. You’ll find a gravel parking lot on the right hand side of the road, this is where you’ll park.
From here you have three trail options, you can either hike to the base of the falls, follow the bluffs trail, or hike to an overlook of the falls. If you have time I recommend hiking both to the base of the falls and to the overlook.
Hiking to the base of Desoto Falls
The journey to the base of the falls is going to be the most challenging of the three. For this reason (and because we were excited to see the waterfall up close), we chose to hike to the base first. This trail is 1.4 miles round trip. Start on the trail to the right, quickly descending to the base canyon. At the start of the trail you walk around a few boulders and rock formations. At one point you’ll see two trails, follow signs to the base of the falls to the right. If you happen to lose the trail or aren’t sure which way to go, just look for the pink paint on the trees. As you approach the falls, expect to scramble over some rocks. Exercise caution, take your time, and watch your footing.
Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll find a spacious rock right beside the water, providing an ideal spot to enjoy your lunch or a snack. While you have the option to continue alongside the river for a closer view of the falls, be aware that this route involves navigating over rocks throughout the entire journey.
During our winter visit, we explored the area before noon and practically had it all to ourselves. As we began our ascent around 1:30-2:00 pm, we noticed an increasing number of hikers heading towards the base. I can envision that in the summer, this waterfall becomes much busier, likely due to its appeal as a fantastic spot for swimming.
Once you are ready to head back, just retrace your steps to the top.
Hiking to Desoto Falls Overlook
If you have the time, I definitely recommend hiking to the overlook too. The trailhead is conveniently located at the same spot, but this time, instead of heading to the right and downhill, proceed straight. It is only 0.45miles to the overlook. You’ll follow the pink marking again at the top. The elevation gain of this trail is minimal, making it easier than the other trail. While it’s not as rocky, there are quite a few tree roots along the trails so be sure to watch your step. You’ll come to the overlook pretty quickly, reaching a large rocky face and a clearing in the trees. Be careful not to get too close to the edge because there is a drop off at the edge of the rock.
Same as the base, once you’re finished enjoying the view, just retrace your steps back to the car.
View of the Falls from the Picnic Area
For a different perspective of Desoto Falls, make a right turn out of the parking lot and head towards the picnic area. During the summer, this spot offers kayak rentals and a chance to swim in the lake. A brief walk from the parking lot will lead you to the dam at the falls. Exercise caution in this area, as you can get remarkably close to the water, and there’s no railing near the dam. A short stroll will bring you directly above the waterfall, where a railing is present. Often unnoticed, you can follow the railing around to the right side for an enhanced view of the waterfall. From this vantage point, you can observe the river below and spot any hikers near the base.
Desoto Falls is the perfect waterfall for the whole family, no matter what kind of adventure you are looking for, you are sure to find it here!
Looking to for some other waterfalls to explore? Consider crossing the border into Georgia and checkout one of these great waterfalls!
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