20 Attractions to Explore Near Little River Canyon National Preserve

Little River Canyon National Preserve, located in DeKalb County, Alabama, is a breathtaking and ecologically significant protected area that showcases the natural beauty of northeastern Alabama. As one of the deepest canyons in the southeastern United States, Little River Canyon offers visitors a chance to explore rugged landscapes, cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and unique geological formations.

The Little River Canyon Rim Parkway, located in DeKalb County, Alabama, is a scenic byway that offers travelers a breathtaking journey through the natural beauty of the Little River Canyon National Preserve and the surrounding area. This picturesque roadway provides access to some of the most stunning overlooks, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures in northeastern Alabama.

Little River Falls, located in Cherokee County, Alabama, is a breathtaking natural wonder and one of the highlights of the Little River Canyon National Preserve. This picturesque waterfall is a stunning example of the beauty that can be found in Alabama's rugged landscapes, drawing nature enthusiasts, photographers, and outdoor adventurers alike.

Little River Canyon National Preserve, located in Cherokee County, Alabama, is a natural gem and a testament to the rugged beauty of the Southern United States. Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," this preserve offers visitors a unique and awe-inspiring opportunity to explore deep canyons, pristine waterfalls, lush forests, and diverse ecosystems.

Little River Canyon National Preserve, is a breathtaking natural wonder that showcases the power of water and the beauty of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East," this preserve offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore deep canyons, pristine waterfalls, lush forests, and diverse ecosystems, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers.

The Fort Payne Depot Museum, located in Fort Payne, DeKalb County, Alabama, is a charming and educational destination that provides insight into the history and cultural heritage of the region. Housed in a beautifully restored historic train depot, this museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through time, showcasing the area's railroad history, Native American heritage, and local traditions.

DeSoto State Park, located in DeKalb County, Alabama, is a captivating natural oasis that offers visitors a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities, stunning landscapes, and a tranquil escape into the heart of the Appalachian foothills. This park is known for its natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

Cornwall Furnace Memorial Park, located in Cherokee County, Alabama, is a historical site that preserves the remnants of an iron furnace and offers visitors a glimpse into the region's industrial past. This park stands as a testament to the once-thriving iron industry in Alabama and serves as an educational and recreational destination.

DeSoto Falls, located in DeKalb County, Alabama, is a magnificent natural wonder that stands as one of the state's most iconic and picturesque waterfalls. Nestled within the Appalachian foothills, DeSoto Falls captivates visitors with its stunning beauty, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Yellow Creek Falls, located in Cherokee County, Alabama, is a serene and picturesque waterfall nestled in the heart of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This natural wonder is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers seeking a tranquil escape into the beauty of Alabama's wilderness.

James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park,is a wonderful place to enjoy the beauty and culture of the North Georgia Mountains. With twelve miles of hiking and biking trails, two ponds stocked with fish, and a wildlife viewing platform, there are plenty of ways to explore and observe the natural world. There are also five pavilions with picnic tables, grills and areas for playing sports or throwing horseshoes. For those looking to stay awhile, camping sites are available.

This is one of the few remaining examples of the architecture buit in 1871, it is a one-story brick building that reflects Italianate and Victorian-style train depots found throughout America at the time. It features brick pilasters on its façade that supports a curved metal roof with octagon-shaped dormers over half-round windows. The original ticket booth and freight platform remain intact, giving visitors an opportunity to imagine how travelers experienced the depot over 150 years ago.

Rocky Mountain Recreation & Public Fishing area is a great destination for outdoor lovers. With over 70 campsites perfect for both RV's and tent camping, visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of this mountainous area. Anglers can test their skills on the stocked trout ponds as well as some of the larger lakes. Furthermore, there are numerous trails extending across the area where hikers can explore and take in the spectacular views.

The Paradise Garden Foundation is renowned for its beautiful and peaceful gardens. It was founded in 2011 by artist and gardener Howard Finster and consists of 4 main acres that span both sides of a narrow road. Each garden provides its own unique experience with multiple outdoor pathways that are lined with colorful sculptures, fountains, a koi pond, prayer stations, walls covered with artwork made by Finster's students and friends, and lush vegetation.

Pigeon Mountain, is a stunning outdoor paradise. Breathtaking landscapes of rolling hills and open fields await visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of this picturesque region. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy on Pigeon Mountain—hiking trails that offer stellar views of its jagged cliffs, creeks full of smallmouth bass, and prime camping sites near its riverside bluffs make it an ideal park for a family getaway.

Pettyjohn's Cave has a fascinating history. Used as a hideaway spot by Native Americans and Civil War soldiers, the cave is named after an early settler of the area, Bob Pettyjohn. In 1907 it became home to the American Exploration Company which had plans to mine for gold there. Despite some results from their efforts, the mine was never profitable and eventually fell into disuse. People still explore its depths today and have found archaeological items.

Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area is an excellent spot for nature-lovers. Home to a variety of flora and fauna, the area is immensely popular among hikers and bird watchers. Spanning approximately 5,000 acres of lush mountainside vicinity and riverside meadows, the area boasts dozens of species including warblers, pileated woodpeckers, wild turkeys and white-tailed deer. It also has more than 130 species of vascular plants that attribute to its vibrant beauty.

Buck's Pocket State Park, situated in DeKalb County, Alabama, is a scenic and tranquil natural retreat that offers visitors a serene escape into the heart of the Appalachian foothills. Known for its rugged terrain, deep pocket-like canyons, and stunning vistas, Buck's Pocket State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here's an introduction to Buck's Pocket State Park:

The Corpsewood Manor is an interesting story of horror and tragedy. In 1982, Dr. Charles Martin Scudder along with his life-partner Joseph Odom bought the 220 acre Preservationist Estate with plans to restore it into a beautiful dream home. They named it Corpsewood but instead of hard work and dreams they were met with violence and tragedy when they were brutally murdered on Christmas Eve 1983. The murders are still unsolved today, as no one knows who committed them or why.

Weathington Park, located in Jackson County, Alabama, is a scenic recreational area that offers visitors a tranquil and natural escape in the heart of the Tennessee River Valley. Situated along the shores of Lake Guntersville, this park provides a serene setting for outdoor activities, picnics, and communing with nature.