Quick Facts
Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Height: 6′ / 2 m
Length of Hike: 0.5 miles / 0.8 km round-trip
The Record
The Azalea Cascades might be the most unassuming of the waterfalls in Alabama’s DeSoto State Park. They lack the vertical drama of DeSoto Falls (or most of the other waterfalls nearby), but they possess a gentle beauty that those larger landmarks can miss.
Accessible via a very well-maintained boardwalk, the trail is easy for hikers even in winter. In late December, the absence of foliage opens up the view of the creek, though the cascades are difficult to photograph. The water flows through a labyrinth of massive rocks and fallen debris, often obscuring the larger view of the creek’s descent. In spring, the falls are surrounded by blooming azaleas, which must be stunning.
Directions
- From I-59, head toward DeSoto State Park. There are multiple ways to get there, and the way I took did not pass through Fort Payne. Other directions I’ve seen go through Fort Payne.
- Follow the signs to DeSoto State Park, as they’re pretty clearly placed along major intersections.
- You’re heading toward DeKalb County Road 89. You’ll drive for a while on this road until you enter the state park.
- From the direction I entered, I saw the gift shop first. I kept heading down County Road 89, and if I had kept going, I would have gone to Fort Payne.
- Locate the parking area for the Azalea Cascades Boardwalk (Blue Trail) and park here.
- Head down the boardwalk to the Azalea Cascades.
Waterfall Record 
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