DeSoto Falls in December 2009
I visited DeSoto Falls almost ten years ago, and now am just coming to write about the most impressive falls in DeSoto State Park. (I’ve written about the four smaller waterfalls in the park many years ago, comically enough.) So I’m now getting to the namesake falls.
DeSoto Falls is a really beautiful waterfall in northeastern Alabama. At 104′, it is one of the taller waterfalls in the state. Since it’s been so long since I visited, I don’t remember all of the specifics, but I do remember it being an easy waterfall to visit. There was a short hike from the parking lot to the falls. You’re then rewarded with a big drop surrounded by beautiful geological features. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely one of the waterfalls you should be visiting.
Directions:
- From I-59, take exit 231.
- Head southeast on AL-40 toward Hammondville/Valley Head.
- Turn right onto US-11 for a short ways.
- Turn left onto AL-117 south and drive for 3 miles through Valley Head. You will turn sharply right onto an apparently unnamed road. If you end up in Mentone, you’ve gone too far.
- Turn left toward County Road 613 and then continue on that road. You should end up at the DeSoto Falls Picnic Area.
Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Height: 104′
Length of Hike: 0.1 miles round-trip
Where in the World is DeSoto Falls?
The Waterfall Record 