Day Trips from Huntsville
← All Huntsville day tripsDay Trips from Huntsville: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Huntsville, AL. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Huntsville
George Hole day use area
Pikeville, TN 37367
Just 2 hrs 23 min from Huntsville, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Little River Canyon Falls Park
Fort Payne, AL 35967
Just 1 hr 29 min from Huntsville, rated 4.9 stars by 2,031 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fall Creek Falls
Pikeville, TN 37367
Just 2 hrs 28 min from Huntsville, rated 4.9 stars by 149 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cummins Falls
USA
Just 2 hrs 55 min from Huntsville, rated 4.8 stars by 741 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Foster Falls Recreation Area
Sequatchie, TN 37374
Just 1 hr 34 min from Huntsville, rated 4.8 stars by 1,451 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rock Island State Park
Rock Island, TN 38581
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Huntsville, rated 4.8 stars by 5,445 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fall Creek Falls State Park
Spencer, TN 38585
Just 2 hrs 16 min from Huntsville, rated 4.8 stars by 8,623 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fiery Gizzard Recreation Area
Tracy City, TN 37387
Just 1 hr 32 min from Huntsville, rated 4.8 stars by 253 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Burgess Falls State Park
Sparta, TN 38583
Just 2 hrs 33 min from Huntsville, rated 4.8 stars by 4,532 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ozone Falls State Natural Area
Ozone, TN 37854
Just 2 hrs 59 min from Huntsville, rated 4.8 stars by 2,454 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Desoto Falls Picnic Area-DeSoto State Park
AL 35984, USA
Just 1 hr 26 min from Huntsville, rated 4.8 stars by 1,907 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Devil's Den Falls
AL 36266, USA
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Huntsville, rated 4.7 stars by 352 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Huntsville
What are the best waterfalls near Huntsville, AL?
The best waterfalls near Huntsville range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Huntsville?
Some waterfalls near Huntsville have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Huntsville?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Huntsville are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Huntsville?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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