20 Attractions to Explore Near DeSoto Falls

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

This Preserve, offers an adventure into stunning natural beauty and a unique ecosystem. Visitors can explore the beautiful canyon by hiking along the rim or wading in the river below. The 15,000-acre preserve encompasses land charged with history of the Creek Indians and Cherokee Nation as well as a number of sites listed on the US National Register of Historic Places. Vistas from high atop Lookout Mountain offer breathtaking views of both the river and towering cliffs below.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ellison's Cave is an incredible natural wonder. The cave comprises of two mile-long passages that hold several unique formations, deep pits and spectacular underground waterfalls. This fantastical cavern is often hailed as a top destination for both professional cavers and amateur spelunkers alike. It boasts being the twelfth longest cave system in the United States with a depth of 586 feet.

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.

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.

Cherokee waterfalls are a stunning sight to behold. Consisting of lush green terrain, crystal-clear waterways and numerous cascading drops, these natural marvels create an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. With four different levels providing endless opportunities for exploration and discovery, visitors can uncover the beauty and wonder that lies hidden among the trees and foliage.

Hemlock Falls, located in the quaint setting of Dade County, Georgia, is a well-loved tourist destination. Its waterfalls and lush greenery create a picturesque view that has been shared by generations of people looking to explore and appreciate its beauty. With parks spread throughout the county, visitors can enjoy peaceful nature trails or take part in water activities on Lake Alatoona.

Marsh House, is a historic home that has been carefully preserved for over two centuries. At the time of its construction in 1822, it was the first brick house in the area and a fantastic example of pioneer architecture. The house was built by Hugh Marsh using handmade molded bricks which represent the work ethic and dedication of early settlers to the land. Inside, antique furniture, paintings and artifacts tell stories of family life during this period of history.

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.