The beginning of the Azalea Cascades

The Azalea Cascades might be the most unassuming of the waterfalls in DeSoto State Park in Alabama. They are not as tall or as wide as the other falls in the park, but they have a gentle beauty nonetheless. The Azalea Cascades are also very easy to access, and the hike along the boardwalk is very enjoyable, even in late December. The cascades continue for a distance down the creek, though they are difficult to photograph, as rocks block the view along the way.

Directions:

1. 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 go through Fort Payne.
2. Follow the signs to DeSoto State Park, as they’re pretty clearly placed along major intersections.
3. You’re heading toward DeKalb County Road 89. You’ll drive for a ways on this road until you enter the state park.
4. 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.
5. Locate the parking are for the Azalea Cascades Boardwalk (Blue Trail) and park here.
6. Head down the boardwalk to the Azalea Cascades.

Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Height: 6′
Length of Hike: 0.5 miles round-trip

Where in the World is Azalea Cascades?