Base of DeSoto Falls Trail

Desoto Falls Hike Pull-Off
4.8
6 Reviews
Base of DeSoto Falls Trail
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Details

Distance
1.15 miles
Elevation Gain
259 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back

Features

Scenic
Forest
Wildflowers
Wildlife
Waterfall
Swimming Hole
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Directions
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Track

About this place

Added by Mark Friedman

The Base of DeSoto Falls Trail is the trail less traveled to this waterfall. You'll scramble your way over rocks, fallen trees and thick brush to the base of DeSoto Falls.

The main visitor entrance to DeSoto Falls in Mentone, AL provides easy, paved trails along the upper rim of the falls. For a more private an intimate view, there is a pull off on the side of the road and trail access. Heading south on AL Hwy 89, take a left turn on Dekalb Country Road 613. After a half mile there is a small pull off that fits a couple cars. If you see a large boulder and power lines you are in the right place. This difficult to follow trail is seldom traveled on, so keep your bearings and if you get stuck/lost, head down to the river and just follow it upstream to the falls.

Making the less than 1 mile trek at sunrise and in the rain didn't help, but the view and sandwich (bring your own) at the base of the falls is worth it. Look out for a pond about 30 minutes away on your drive back for a spectacular display of lilly pads and aquatic life.

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
Community
Reviews
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Check-ins
Nihar G
3/2/2026
Well Maintained
Not Crowded
Amazing Views
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Jonathan Sisk
12/18/2024
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Brett Bouldin
4/22/2020
Amazing
This is one of my favorite spots in northeast Alabama. Hiking down to the base of the falls is well worth it and pretty ...
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Gabriel Bland
5/5/2017
Takes it to a whole different level! Even if you don't go the right way...
100% Recommend going down to the base of the falls vs the view from the top (Assuming you only have time for one, otherwise ...
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Merritt McKinney
5/1/2017
Bring a kayak!
If you are up for the challenge, lug a kayak to the base of DeSoto Falls. Its tough so be prepared and bring friends ...
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Edward Day
4/5/2016
Great Views from the Bottom
The waterfall itself is fantastic. Can feel commercialized if you're just going to hang at the top of the waterfall. However, going to the ...
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