Little Falls
Tourist attraction
7.7 mi
4.8 (209)
AL-35, Fort Payne, AL 35967
RiverAL
Little River Canyon Swimming Holes
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background photo from a past visit, not current conditions. View photos and source links
Plan Little Falls access in Little River Canyon. Compare the overlook with the stair descent, avoid closed gravel routes and check NPS water-safety guidance.
Swimming restriction
Obey posted closures. At the main Little River Falls, being within 50 feet of the edge is prohibited except on designated walkways, with a specified paddling exception. Glass and alcohol are prohibited. Do not install rope swings or interpret historical jumping advice as permission.
Official sources checked:
Water type
River
Access
Informal
Fee
NPS page reviewed October 8, 2026 requires entrance passes only at Canyon Mouth Park: standard private-vehicle admission is $15 for one day. Main-falls access is a different destination; confirm current fees and payment arrangements before travel.
Best season
Allow daylight for both the descent and return. If the main lot is full, follow current NPS parking instructions without using Blue Hole as a Little Falls overflow lot
Nearby towns
Chattanooga (Tn), Ft. Payne (Al) (Tn)
Water body
Little River; Little Falls Swimming Context Distinct From The Main Waterfall Overlook
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
Chattanooga (Tn), Ft. Payne (Al) (Tn)
Access location not verified
34.28814, -85.68161
Recorded coordinates have not been source-checked. Confirm the entrance and legal access before using directions.
A closer look
Photos of Little River Canyon Swimming Holes
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Faces are blurred in selected photos for visitor privacy.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Access location not verified
- The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Choose the overlook or the Little Falls descent
The main Little River Falls viewpoint and the Little Falls swimming destination are different outings. The NPS waterfall guide describes an accessible overlook boardwalk, but the approach to Little Falls involves a trail and stone stairs. Plan for your group's ability to climb back out.
Replace the old gravel shortcut
Use the signed route from the paved main-falls lot. The current access rules permanently close the former gravel lot and emergency road, including pedestrian use. Do not follow archived instructions to that entrance or park at Blue Hole for a Little Falls visit.
Use water information without treating it as permission
Review NPS water-safety guidance. Upstream storms can change this rain-fed river unexpectedly. A downstream gauge and a calm historical photo do not establish suitable conditions at your intended pool. Leave jumping and rope-swing suggestions out of the plan.
Budget for the destination you choose
The entrance-pass page identifies Canyon Mouth Park as the fee area. It is not the Highway 35 main-falls lot. This regional listing preserves its established route, but its map pin is not a verified water entrance and its gallery does not validate every pool named in old descriptions.
Getting There
For Little Falls, use the paved Little River Falls parking lot on Highway 35 and the signed Little Falls Trail. NPS lists a 0.75-mile trail followed by 137 stone stairs. The old Little Falls gravel parking lot and gravel emergency road are permanently closed to vehicles and foot traffic. Blue Hole parking is for Blue Hole visitors only, not overflow for Little Falls. The retained regional map point is not a verified trailhead or water entrance.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
Main Little River Falls parking opens at 7 a.m. and closes at dark. Canyon Mouth Park opens at 8 a.m. with its closing time posted at the gate. Check the current destination-specific notices before departure.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
Obey posted closures. At the main Little River Falls, being within 50 feet of the edge is prohibited except on designated walkways, with a specified paddling exception. Glass and alcohol are prohibited. Do not install rope swings or interpret historical jumping advice as permission. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Little River Canyon Center
Visitor center
8.1 mi
4.8 (178)
4322 Little River Canyon Rim Pkwy, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Restroom
Little River Campground
Campground
8.4 mi
4.4 (291)
1357 Co Rd 261, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Little River Canyon National Preserve
Nature preserve
10 mi
4.8 (2450)
4322 Little River Trail #100, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Forested nature preserve around Little River which runs along the top of Lookout Mountain.
Picnic tablesPublic restroom
Little River Canyon Falls Park
Park
10.1 mi
4.9 (2070)
4322 Little River Trail Ste 100, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Barbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroom
Public restroom
Public bathroom
11 mi
4.8 (4)
503 Gault Ave N, Fort Payne, AL 35967
DeSoto State Park
State park
14.9 mi
4.8 (2800)
7104 Desoto Pkwy NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Mountaintop 3,502-acre state park with waterfalls, a nature center, pool & 25 mi. of trails.
Barbecue grillCycling lanesPicnic tablesPublic restroom
Restroom and Showers
Public bathroom
15.1 mi
5 (1)
Desoto Pkwy, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Live Conditions Nearby
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Frequently Asked Questions About Little River Canyon Swimming Holes
Are Little Falls and Little River Falls the same waterfall?
No. NPS distinguishes the main Little River Falls from Little Falls, formerly called Martha's Falls. Their access experiences differ.
Can I use the old gravel lot for Little Falls?
No. The current NPS compendium permanently closes that lot and gravel emergency road to vehicles and pedestrians. Use the main paved parking lot and signed trail.
Can I use Blue Hole parking as overflow for Little Falls?
No. NPS restricts that lot to visitors staying in the Blue Hole area.
Does the accessible overlook provide accessible swimming entry?
No. The main-falls overlook is separate from Little Falls access, for which NPS lists a 0.75-mile trail and 137 stone stairs.
Highlights
Main-falls overlook versus Little Falls descent
Updated access avoiding the closed gravel route
Canyon-specific water and parking guidance
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Wear a lifejacket, do not swim alone, supervise children and leave the river during severe weather
- Expect slippery rock, drop-offs and strong currents
- Mobile reception may be poor
- The Canyon Mouth gauge may not reflect conditions upstream and is not a safe-entry threshold
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
The gallery includes NPS interpretation of the Trail of Tears. Read the on-site history respectfully; it is not presented as a swimming amenity.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Gallery shows main Little River Falls, bridge, rocky-river and boardwalk context, a Trail of Tears interpretive panel and a broad sandstone-bank pool with visitor regions blurred. The exact pool is unverified. These historical views do not document all named swimming places, current water conditions or a permitted entry.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Stay out of closed areas, leave rocks unstacked and pack out litter. Use designated paths rather than creating creek-bank shortcuts.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Allow daylight for both the descent and return. If the main lot is full, follow current NPS parking instructions without using Blue Hole as a Little Falls overflow lot.
Difficulty Level
Little Falls requires a trail and steep stair descent with a climb back out. The accessible main-falls overlook is a separate option, not a step-free route to swim.
Fee
NPS page reviewed October 8, 2026 requires entrance passes only at Canyon Mouth Park: standard private-vehicle admission is $15 for one day. Main-falls access is a different destination; confirm current fees and payment arrangements before travel.
Facilities
An accessible overlook is not accessible river entry. Confirm current restroom availability and any mobility needs with NPS.
Activities
Waterfall viewing, marked-trail hiking and swimming where NPS permits and conditions allow
Phone
256-845-9605
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Do not use day-use waterfall parking as an overnight campsite. Ask NPS about current overnight restrictions and arrange lawful accommodation separately.
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Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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