High Falls Park

This park is fairly small and definitely off the beaten path on Alabama's back roads, so be sure to pay attention to which streets you're on.

From Birmingham or Chattanooga, take Interstate 59 to Exit 218 in Fort Payne. Take Highway 35 West to Rainsville, then turn left onto Highway 75. Follow Highway 75 South to Geraldine. At the town's only traffic light, turn onto Highway 227 North and follow the signs to High Falls Park.

Continue down the road until you reach a few small buildings and a small parking lot where you can park. There are bathrooms where you can change into a swim suit and fill up your water bottle. Once you're ready to go, follow the road down the hill for about 600 ft and turn left toward the bridge. You can cross the bridge and take a look over the edge, but to reach the falls you'll take a right before the bridge through the bushes and onto the large rock platform. At this point you'll be able to see the huge waterfall, so keep walking straight.

To reach the best spots to cliff jump from, walk past the waterfall where you'll find a large cliff with a deep pool of water beneath. There is a large rope attached to the cliff, so you'll want to jump off nearby so its easier to climb out. Please note that in order to climb the rope, it will require some strength and athletic ability.

If you want to get closer to the waterfall, swim toward it but note that there is a strong current at the base of it and the rocks are very slippery. Only experienced and strong swimmers should attempt to get close to the waterfall.

For the daring, there are even higher cliffs across from the waterfall, but there are also plenty of places to explore and watch your friends if heights aren't your thing.

When you're exhausted and ready for a break, there are picnic tables and a playground to enjoy an afternoon lunch!

Take in the view, test your limits, be safe, and HAVE FUN!