One of the deepest canyon systems east of the Mississippi, cut by the Little River — a river that runs almost its entire length on top of Lookout Mountain. Managed by the National Park Service, the preserve pairs a dramatic 11-mile rim drive with waterfalls, swimming holes, and some genuinely rugged backcountry. Little River Falls at the north end is the easy showpiece; the canyon floor is for people who mean it.
Congress established the preserve in 1992 to protect the canyon and the free-flowing river above it. The river is unusual — it forms and flows on the mountaintop before dropping into the gorge, which is why the water stays clean and cold. The NPS rim drive (Highway 176) strings together overlooks named Eberhart Point, Grace's High Falls, and Wolf Creek.
Highlights
- → Little River Falls: 45-foot falls, minutes from the parking area
- → 11-mile scenic rim drive (Highway 176) with stacked overlooks
- → Grace's High Falls — Alabama's tallest, best after rain
- → Swimming holes and kayaking above the falls in season
- → NPS-managed — the national-park experience without the national-park crowds
When to Go
Spring
Highest water; Grace's High Falls only really runs after spring rain.
Summer
Swimming season above the falls; canyon floor gets hot, start early.
Fall
The canyon walls turn — one of the best foliage drives in the Southeast.
Winter
Bare trees open up the long canyon views the summer leaves hide.
Things to Do
Plan the Trip
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