Little River Canyon National Preserve

Little River flows for most of its length across the top of Lookout Mountain in northeastern Alabama. Rather than beginning in a valley, the river travels across the Appalachian Plateau before cutting deeply into layers of sandstone and forming the dramatic landscape of Little River Canyon.

The canyon contains forested cliffs, rocky overlooks, pools, rapids and waterfalls. Little River Falls marks the beginning of the canyon with a 45-foot drop over a broad sandstone ledge. Farther downstream, the river continues carving through the plateau, creating steep canyon walls that rise above the water.

Visitors can explore the preserve by hiking, fishing, paddling, wildlife watching and traveling along the Little River Canyon Rim Parkway. A series of overlooks provides views into the canyon, while trails lead through forests and toward the river. Experienced kayakers are drawn to the river’s powerful rapids when water levels are high.

Little River Canyon National Preserve was established on October 21, 1992, during the administration of President George H. W. Bush. The preserve protects the river, canyon and surrounding forest while allowing visitors to experience one of the most distinctive Appalachian Plateau landscapes in Alabama.