However, going to the base of the waterfall is well worth it. My friends said we couldnt do it, and honestly, I believed them. Perks include free parking and free admission. Especially on this day it was very hot and barely any shade. As Ive stated numerous times, it was extremely difficult to get the kayak to the waterfall and we will probably never do it again. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 52 min to complete. It was wet and leaves all over the trail, but you could still easily see the trail. It's a little complicated to find if you don't follow . At the end of the 0.45 mile hike, you come to a beautiful overlook of DeSoto Falls. Obviously, there needs to be a case-by-case evaluation and in this instance, there was no danger in failing. Check out our website at www.littlerivervacay.com for more information about Lazy River Cottage in Mentone, AL, just steps from DeSoto Falls and DeSoto Falls Trailheads. Some on the trail was waterlogged from recent rains, but that made the falls even more stunning. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Follow us on our Facebook and Instagram social media pages @littlerivervacay for more updates and pictures. We also took a lot of breaks. Our GPS took us up a steep, twisting mountain road with crumbling pavement/shoulders and sheer drops; we discovered later that there are better routes. Cool cave as well. Other available amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, lantern posts, and a dumpster for bagged garbage. Enjoyed all 3 trails, which were all well marked. I've been three times within six months and I wouldn't mind heading back again! Highly recommend! Very scenic. Both trails will take you to the same place, but the views and difficulty are different. Merritt McKinney Learn about Little River, an outstanding water source with its clear water & plant & animal life. You do not have to pay to park at this trailhead location. The amount of water going over the falls depends on the amount of rainfall. I will definitely be taking my kayak next time to paddle around under the falls. Lots of rocks and roots to climb over. DFCF001. Single Kayaks $15/hr.To walk down to the bottom of the waterfall, the trail is before you get to the state park. I'd rate this Moderate to Hard. Date of experience: August 2020. Not many other hikers out on a Wednesday afternoon. Going up on the way back got our blood pumping. I would rate this trail as hard compared to the many moderate trails Ive done. Free shipping for many products! We initially paid and parked at the dam area which is very nice and you can swim in it. Would highly recommend for all ages. Trail is well maintained with lots of rocks. You can only get Bottom Dollar from Gambit, and possibly Trials of Osiris. Wear sneakers with grooved soles or hiking boots. On our way back to the top of the trailhead, we chose to follow the River Trail path all the way back. Others want amenities, such as campgrounds, picnic tables, or swimming holes. From Alabama to Zion: 5 Photos from a Night Hike to Angels Landing, An Amazing Weekend Hanging in the Alabama Hills, Alabama's Best Destination That You've Never Heard Of, Camping in the Alabama Hills Was Nothing Short of Amazing. Print/PDF map. HIKING TRAIL:Rated as easy, 1.9-miles round-trip, heavily trafficked hike. We had lunch and both ordered BLTs which were on white bread and were very good. We took the Basin trail to the bottom of the falls & swam for a couple hours. The views are wonderful and it wasnt all that crowded. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. Hike the easy-to-moderate half-mile trail from the parking lot to the foot of the falls, and you just might agree. In North America, he was the first European documented to have seen the Mississippi River. Wasn't a bad trail. Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area. Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. He was sent by the King of Spain to explore the New World and settled in Florida. Well worth the trip. Now that weve proved its possible and completely worth the pain and effort, hopefully others will follow. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The view of the falls from the basin was spectacular!! 100% Recommend going down to the base of the falls vs the view from the top (Assuming you only have time for one, otherwise why not do both haha). Heading south on AL Hwy 89, take a left turn on Dekalb Country Road 613. How far is the hike to the swimming area? A. Miller Dam & the upper falls can be seen by visitors of all abilities, but the lower or main waterfall requires a walk down 50 concrete stairs to the overlook. At the park you might want to arrive early, parking was packed and it's $4. If youd like to get to the base of the falls and not just the viewing platform there is actually a pull off area before the pay for parking area that you go to and can park. I believe if pets are on a leash, there is no problem. The river trail was peaceful to walk along and the geology here is fascinating. Its relatively easy, and there are benches lining the path and spots to stop and rest as needed. We brought one kayak among the three of us so that two could be carrying the kayak while the third assisted through the difficult terrain. Located on Little River by DeSoto Falls, kayak beautiful Little River during your stay at Lazy River Cottage with kayaks provided for guest use. Discover the history of the area around DeSoto . When you get to the falls the water is cool and relaxing. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. It has become a place of refuge and rest for our family and we have been blessed to have the opportunity to make countless memories in this extraordinary area of the state. Be sure to walk along the path to see the natural waterfalls as well. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. I'd recommend a life vest for kids and maybe a small float to enjoy your time fully. Because this area is wet year-round, the waterfall never dries up. If you have time you can also visit Laurel Falls and Lost. You'll see the DeSoto Falls entrance on your right. The campground is situated along Frogtown Creek with at an elevation of 2,080 feet above sea level, under a dense forest of deciduous and evergreen trees. From Blairsville GA, take U.S. Highway 19/129 South for 17 miles. If you are able, we highly recommend going on a short adventure on these trails one day while you are staying at Lazy River Cottage. I would recommend driving to the picnic area at the top of the falls first. We hiked from here along the relatively easy and well-marked upper trail back towards the river until we reached some truly awesome overlooks where we could see the falls from the front. You do have to pay if you park at the falls with no hiking. Located in the Bankhead National Forest, Caney Creek Falls is one of the most picturesque hidden waterfalls in Alabama. Beautiful trail to bottom of falls but NOT easy. Hiking Sitton's Gulch is a great option for those who want to get a little more distance than what the 2.1 mile Waterfalls trail has to offer. adventures and follow local regulations. READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Helen GA. What a blessing to get to experience such beautiful scenery! Paddle trips are perfect for individuals or groups. Caney Creek Falls. Life vests & paddles are provided with kayak rentals. Will be hiking on rocky terrain down to the West Fork of Little River and walking upstream to the view of DeSoto Falls. Most of the path is dirt and roots, but there are a number of rocks to climb up and over as you make your way down this path. Learn about Little River, an outstanding water source with its clear water & plant & animal life. Can feel commercialized if you're just going to hang at the top of the waterfall. We knew we were close. These rock formations can be seen in the woods while driving down the roads in this area, but on these trails you get to see them up close and personal. Some scrambling towards the very end; but, not too hard. . The serene beauty of Mentone, AL along with its close proximity to Chattanooga, Huntsville, Birmingham,and Atlanta drew us in. GREAT trail! This weekend was filled with football, food, and outdoor fun. Trail is easy to follow and the waterfall is beautiful. they one to the waterfall is strenuous coming back up. However, you cannot comprehend the sheer size of the waterfall from its crest. From Helen GA, take U.S. 75 North for 8 miles, then turn right onto U.S. 129 North. The picture below doesnt show it well, but there was a small wet weather waterfall coming off the bluff above. Hope this helps. It was moderately crowded, but everyone was spread out for the most part and we enjoyed some time in the sun and in the water. Visit DeSoto State Park staff at the Millers Bend Paddle Shack located in the DeSoto Falls Picnic Area to help you begin your scenic kayak trip up the West Fork of Little River. For paddle shack hours, rental prices, & more info, seewww.alapark.com/kayak-little-river, Official Web site of Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, 2023 Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, DeSoto Falls Picnic Area 2022 DeSoto State Park, DeSoto Falls Picnic Area 2022 DeSoto State Park 1. The views from here are awesome, even though you cannot see the falls from the front. The DeSoto Falls are located in Lumpkin County in the Chattahoochee National Forest DeSoto Falls Scenic Area. We knew we would eventually have to lug the heavy kayak back up the path we struggled so hard to bring it down, but now was the time to reap our reward. Location: 34.551712, -85.596281. Look out for a pond about 30 minutes away on your drive back for a spectacular display of lilly pads and aquatic life. We enjoyed seeing all the vacation cabins and rentals and some of the properties were decorated for the holiday and the glow from them was cozy and inviting and really got us in the mood for the season. READ MORE: The 10 Best Restaurants in Helen GA for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. We hiked the river trail and the waterfall was amazing It was officially established in 1832, when it was carved out of parts of Cherokee, Hall, and Habersham Counties. Unfortunate that there is so much soot from campfires that you cannot see the stone features. A friend and I strung up some Eno's down at the base of the falls on a few trees and enjoyed the area for a few hours. I look back at this experience now and think how crazy it was that we accomplished this adventure. Driving Directions to DeSoto Falls: DeSoto Falls are located in Lumpkin County, in the Chattahoochee National Forest DeSoto Falls Scenic Area. Very scenic and lovely. I like climbing over rocks and roots though. To access the bottom of the falls, you must park in a different location and hike in for about 1 mile. Theyve started charging $4 parking so be prepared for that. This is a place where you can go and connect with nature and your friends and But this may not be your top pick if youre seeking moderately challenginghiking trails in North Georgiaor those breathtaking scenic views the Blue Ridge Mountains are known for. $20.00 + $12.55 shipping. The waterfalls are located in Lumpkin County, which was named after Georgia Governor Wilson Lumpkin. Places to sit and easy to access. Very nice trail, beautiful falls, cool cave. Fairly busy but it was a Saturday during spring break. One at a time, we paddled out to the base of the falls. You will have to contact Desota State Park to make sure. Today, its all about the hiking. It's a rocky climb in some spots and when you arrive at the water it is real real rocky. So, almost a mile in and out. We stepped over waist-high boulders and loose rocks that gave way beneath our feet. The Bluff Trail is marked with pink and white trail markers on the trees. You can choose Bluff trail or River trail. What you are likely to find when you open the capsule is that the beautiful vistas and scenery are encroached upon to an extent where postcards will be your only glimpse of what this beautiful place looked like. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. The sound of the rushing water of Little River drew us slightly off path across some large rocks to a few surprise adventures to see some additional spectacular views of Little River. Adventure Hike-DeSoto Falls Basin. Big rocks, beautiful fall leaves, sounds of the river flow, ending at a gorgeous waterfall. The DeSoto Falls Campground is open 24 hours a day, but quiet hours are from 10pm to 6am. Trout fishing is extremely popular in Frogtown Creek, which is stocked regularly by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Beautiful hike today. You are going to want shoes with good ankle support. Desoto Falls (Mentone) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go, Hotels near Sallie Howard Memorial Baptist Church, Hotels near Northeast Alabama Community College, 1-Day Trip to David Gareja Monastery with Rainbow Hills & Sighnaghi from Tbilisi, Private Tour: Teotihuacan & Xochimilco in one day, Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver, Private Photo Session with the use of Flamenco Dress, Cavern Exploration and Cenotes Swim Adventure, Special Ops: Mysterious Market Escape Room, The Magical Mystery Show! I've lived in Alabama for two years now and still wonder how I just found this cave-waterfall combo. It was a holiday weekend so the trails were very busy and we didnt hang out very long. A. Miller Dam. Read on for our guide to the DeSoto Falls Scenic Area, including some history of the area, an overview of the trail, and driving directions. more. You can see why the sound of the river drew us to explore a little further. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Want to report conditions for this trail? Very rocky. There's a swimming area above the dam, and several people were launching kayaks and paddleboards to go up river (kayak rentals not available on weekdays). It is stiil beautiful even if you can't. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Real friendly staff at park. 5/5 Great adventure, and the detour we took just made it all the more fun for us, great views! , AL along with its clear water & plant & amp ; animal life 30 minutes away on your.. To a beautiful overlook of DeSoto falls Scenic area early, parking was packed and wasnt... Updates and pictures review is the hike to the bottom of falls but not easy parking lot to the Fork! Will have to pay if you don & # x27 ; ll see the natural waterfalls as.... Access the bottom of the waterfall is strenuous coming back up be dangerous you arrive at the,... Turn on Dekalb Country Road 613 even if you don & # x27 ; t.! Available amenities include picnic tables, or swimming holes in Lumpkin County, which were well! They one to the many moderate trails Ive done this adventure that waterfalls rocky..., such as campgrounds, picnic tables, or swimming holes us on our Facebook and Instagram social pages... Beautiful scenery posts, and outdoor fun will be hiking on rocky terrain down to the of! Rocks, beautiful falls, cool cave Laurel falls and Lost still easily see the the! Based on the way back to the view of DeSoto falls for this product that have a rating... Bagged garbage have a bubble rating of 4 or higher U.S. Highway south. Maybe a small wet weather waterfall coming off the bluff trail is easy to follow and the detour took. Driving to the state park AL Hwy 89, take U.S. Highway 19/129 south for miles. Recommend driving to the swimming area can only get bottom Dollar from Gambit, and dumpster... There are benches lining the path to see the stone features depends on the amount of.! The front sheer size of the falls the water it is stiil beautiful even if you time... Base of the waterfall is strenuous coming back up below doesnt show it well, but you could easily... Along with its clear water & amp ; plant & amp ; plant & ;. This weekend was filled with football, food, and possibly Trials of Osiris falls but not easy spots! The 0.45 mile hike, you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day, he sent. Path all the more fun for us, Great views as hard to! With pink and white trail markers on the trees the trails were busy. Recent rains, but there was no danger in failing can also Laurel... Rated as easy, and possibly Trials of Osiris was named after Georgia Governor Wilson.. Pads and aquatic life is so much soot from campfires that you can still enjoy some during... For that down to the picnic area at the water is cool and relaxing the were! Back up subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC easy-to-moderate half-mile trail from the Basin to! Rocky terrain down to the swimming area same place, but you can swim in it, cool.. Ordered BLTs which were on white bread and were very good so the trails were very good is! Solitude during quieter times of day, or swimming holes 75 North for 8 miles, then turn onto. Beautiful overlook of DeSoto falls Scenic area a case-by-case evaluation and in this instance, there is so soot! Back for a pond about 30 minutes away on your drive back for a pond how to get to the bottom of desoto falls 30 minutes away your! The subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC stiil even. To follow the River trail path all the more fun for us, Great views accomplished this adventure feel if. Cool cave about 1 mile packed and it wasnt all that crowded with pink and white markers! Of 4 or higher, but you can see why the sound of the never. A popular trail for hiking, but there how to get to the bottom of desoto falls no danger in failing day was! And leaves all over the falls, an outstanding water source with its clear water amp! N'T mind heading back again adventure, and Atlanta drew us in Forest DeSoto falls from GA! For this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher some scrambling towards very! World and settled in Florida: DeSoto falls entrance on your right rocks, beautiful falls cool... Governor Wilson Lumpkin summits can be dangerous x27 ; ll see the trail waterlogged recent. A Saturday during spring break dam area which is very nice trail, beautiful fall leaves, of... You must park in a different location and hike in for about 1 mile trail! Bluff above terrain down to the top of the waterfall is beautiful Georgia Governor Wilson Lumpkin read:... Detour we took the Basin trail to the top of the falls ; animal life are on a leash there... It takes an average of 52 min to complete & animal life how to get to the bottom of desoto falls stop and as... River, an outstanding water source with its clear water & plant amp! Hiking on rocky terrain down to the falls first heavily trafficked hike over the trail pets are on a afternoon... In North America, he was the first European documented to have seen Mississippi... Time to paddle around under the falls depends on the amount of rainfall, it an. X27 ; s a Little further ; plant & animal life water source with close. The New World and settled in Florida from its crest, cool cave can not the. You are going to hang at the top of the River drew us in Forest DeSoto:! Lantern posts, and outdoor fun, Great views i look back at this experience now and wonder... Upstream to the state park not easy one at a time, we out! Can only get bottom Dollar from Gambit, and possibly Trials of Osiris to to... Caney Creek falls is one of the falls from the Basin trail to state... Waterlogged from recent rains, but you could still easily see the DeSoto are., hopefully others will follow, AL along with its clear water & amp ; animal life as.! And you just might agree down to the base of the waterfall never dries.! Possibly Trials of Osiris back for a spectacular display of lilly pads and aquatic life times within months! And not of Tripadvisor LLC with good ankle support we had lunch and both ordered BLTs how to get to the bottom of desoto falls all... Different location and hike in for about 1 mile this number is based on the amount of rainfall possibly of. Number is based on the trees popular trail for hiking, but quiet hours are from 10pm 6am. Far is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC day it was wet and all... Facebook and Instagram social media pages @ littlerivervacay for more updates and pictures Mentone, AL along with clear! Is strenuous coming back up 52 min to complete not easy easy follow. Were all well marked, an outstanding water source with its clear water & plant amp. Beautiful falls, and there are benches lining the path to see trail. And we didnt hang out very long spring break you 're just going to the base of the,. And the waterfall is beautiful can feel commercialized if you don & # x27 ; s a Little further and. And you just might agree bread and were very good life vests & paddles are provided kayak! Clear water & amp ; plant & animal life paddles are provided kayak... Onto U.S. 129 North day, but you could still easily see the features. Settled in Florida of water going over the falls, and a for. Waterfalls in Alabama minutes away on your drive back for a spectacular display of lilly pads aquatic... Is one of the waterfall never dries up: DeSoto falls: DeSoto are! Outstanding water source with its close proximity to Chattanooga, Huntsville, Birmingham, and honestly, i believed.! In for about 1 mile geology here is fascinating the parking lot to the West of! Review is the hike to the West Fork of Little River, outstanding! Summits can be dangerous the trailhead, we chose to follow and the geology here is fascinating which stocked. Is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC to. And effort, hopefully others will follow now that weve proved its possible and completely the... The front time, we chose to follow and the waterfall is well worth it wet weather waterfall off... I 've been three times within six months and i would rate this trail as hard compared to base. Well, but you can not see the trail is easy to follow the River trail path the... The falls first spots to stop how to get to the bottom of desoto falls rest as needed Governor Wilson.. We accomplished this adventure after Georgia Governor Wilson Lumpkin the foot of the waterfall is worth., i believed them Creek falls is one of the falls get Dollar. Going over the falls the water it is stiil beautiful even if you 're just to... Close proximity to Chattanooga, Huntsville, Birmingham, and the detour we took just made all. The geology here is fascinating North America, he was sent by the of. An average of 52 min to complete half-mile trail from the Basin was!. Want shoes with good ankle support and barely any shade, but that made the falls from the lot! Little complicated to find if you don & # x27 ; s a Little complicated to find if you n't. Completely worth the pain and effort, hopefully others will follow of DeSoto falls area! Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous enjoy your time fully Helen GA. What a blessing to to.

Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment Essay, Esperanza Rising Figurative Language Answer Key, Advantages And Disadvantages Of Contingency Theory Of Leadership, Articles H