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Little River Canyon National Preserve

National Preserve · AL

Little River is unique because it flows for most of its length atop Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama. Forested uplands, waterfalls, canyon rims and bluffs, pools, boulders, and sandstone cliffs offer settings for a variety of recreational activities. Natural resources and cultural heritage come together to tell the story of the Preserve, a special place in the Southern Appalachians.

Official NPS page →

Current Alerts (1)

Danger

SEASONAL SAFETY MESSAGE

Be careful and safe while out in the canyon! Be cautious of your surroundings, don't cliff jump, don't stray off of the main trails, and don't get too close to Little River Falls or the canyon rim. These activities could result in injury or death.

Entrance Fees

Entrance passes are only required for Canyon Mouth Park. No checks accepted, only cash and card (no bills larger than a $20). Passes are available to purchase from the automatic machine located outside of the fee booth or from the fee booth itself, if it is staffed. The fee booth is only staffed during peak seasons.

Annual passes purchased at the fee machine must be picked up and redeemed at the Little River Canyon Center. Call to schedule time to pick up your annual pass. You can purchase this pass in person at the Canyon Center front desk or the gift shop. The passes are sold across the street from Little River Canyon Center at The Rim of the Canyon Cafe. Little River Cayon Center is CLOSED on MONDAYS. If you need a pass that day go to the Rim of the Canyon Cafe to buy a pass.

Upcoming Events

Run the Canyon: Run With a Ranger

Sep 2, 2026 · Little River Canyon Center 4322 Little River Trail NE Suite 100 Fort Payne, AL 35967

Wildlife Wonders: National Wildlife Day

Sep 4, 2026

Sun Print Art - Cyanotypes

Sep 5, 2026 · Little River Canyon Center

Run With a Ranger: Little River WMA

Sep 9, 2026

Fall Impressions: Leaf Pounding & Pressing Craft Station

Sep 10, 2026

Paint the Park: Field Journaling at Little River Canyon

Sep 12, 2026

Paint the Park: Plein Air at Crow Point - Drop-In event

Sep 12, 2026 · HWY 176 Crow Point Overlook

Bike With a Ranger

Sep 14, 2026

Run the Backcountry: Run With a Ranger

Sep 16, 2026

Colored Pencil Wildflower Walk

Sep 17, 2026 · Canyon Mouth Park

After Dark, A Little River Canyon Night Hike

Sep 23, 2026

Run With a Ranger - Eberhart Overlook

Sep 23, 2026

Junior Angler Fishing Day at Canyon Mouth Park

Sep 26, 2026 · Canyon Mouth Park

Run the Canyon: Run With a Ranger

Sep 30, 2026

The Art of the Wildflower: Botanical Illustration

Sep 30, 2026

Visitor Centers

  • Jacksonville State University Little River Canyon Center

Source: National Park Service.

Little River Canyon National Preserve: Alerts, Camping & Things to Do | ExploreParksUSA