Fall is a magical time of year in the South– it’s not too hot, it’s not too cold, and it’s simply gorgeous! Here’s a list of the best places to visit if you want to catch a glimpse of stunning fall foliage in Alabama.
P.S. Use the handy Fall Foliage Prediction Map to plan your trip during peak season!
Cheaha State Park- Delta
Located within Cheaha State Park, Cheaha Mountain is the highest point in Alabama at 2,407 feet above sea level and overlooks 392,567 acres of the Talladega National Forest. That makes it the perfect vantage point for checking out fall leaves! This state park also features convenient lodging, camping, and miles of gorgeous hiking and mountain biking trails, so you can stick around and enjoy the changing of the seasons as long as you like.
Oak Mountain State Park- Pelham
Oak Mountain State Park is located just outside of Birmingham and covers 11,632 acres. It is currently Alabama’s largest state park and features over 50 miles of trails where you can bike, hike, or simply take a walk and take in the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of fall. If you want to stay in the park, you can either make yourself at home at the campground or stay in one of ten cabins positioned next to Lake Tranquility.
Little River Canyon National Preserve- Fort Payne
Little River Canyon features multiple vantage points to check out fall foliage, along with tree-lined trails where you can soak up all of the natural beauty Alabama has to offer. If you’re in the mood for a drive, try out the 11-mile Little River Canyon Rim Parkway. It features eight overlooks with stunning views of waterfalls and trees, along with several places where you can stop and enjoy a nice picnic lunch outdoors.
DeSoto State Park- Fort Payne
This park covers 3,502 gorgeous acres and is home to DeSoto Falls, a 107-foot waterfall that’s considered one of the most visited waterfalls in the whole state. There’s truly nothing like taking in views of this majestic waterfall surrounded by the bright colors of the changing leaves, and late fall is one of the best times to do it since the water flow tends to be higher. Take advantage of the 15 miles of trails this park offers if you want to get the most of your visit! Cabins, lodging, and campsites are available.
Rickwood Caverns State Park- Warrior
This unique park contains a massive cave that features 260-million-year-old formations that you can tour year round, and it’s also one of the most amazing places in Alabama to see a variety of vibrant fall foliage. Make some time to explore the Fossil Mountain Hiking Trail and you’re sure to experience the best a Southern fall has to offer, along with sightings of impressive fossils imprinted in limestone rocks. Plus, there’s plenty of space for camping if you want to make a weekend out of it.
Monte Sano State Park- Huntsville
If you’re looking to fully experience the majestic mountains of Alabama in a striking fall setting, Monte Sano is the place for you. There are 20 miles of hiking trails, each featuring unique views of stunning fall foliage. Don’t miss out on checking out the changing colors of the Japanese maples in this park’s very own Japanese Garden! Like many other Alabama parks, Monte Sano features both campsites and convenient cabin lodging.