by James Richardson

When you think of the South, and particularly the State of Alabama, the last thing to come to mind would probably be mountains. However, in the northern section of Alabama a big surprise awaits visitors who enter the state's borders. That surprise is the presence of mountains. Granted, the mountains of Northern Alabama are not huge by most anyone's scale, but nevertheless, they are mountains. And along with its mountains, there are waterfalls and other natural features that make encouraging and exciting outdoor adventures for the visitor.

Northern Alabama does not cover a lot of territory. The entire state of Alabama at its widest point is close to two hundred miles east to west and about three hundred fifteen miles north to south. Its northern-most point is only about one hundred forty miles across and broadens to around one hundred fifty-five miles. This section is also only seventy miles from north to south. All this means that in this small area there are many attractions that visitors would enjoy and it does not require extensive travel time.

A Natural State

The mountains of Northern Alabama are actually part of the foothills of the Appalachian Plateau. The terrain of the western part of this region is gently rolling hills. Farther eastward, the hills make a transition into small mountains. The highest point in Alabama is Cheaha Mountain at 2407 feet. It is located near Anniston just south of Interstate 20 in Cheaha State Park. In the more scenic and rugged eastern part of Alabama's Mountain Lakes Region, the mountains have names like Gunter, Sand, Blount, and Lookout Mountain. Along their crests hiking trails abound. In their valleys, rivers create playgrounds for water enthusiasts. Along their paths downward many beautiful waterfalls are produced.

Majestic DeSoto Falls Photo Credit: DeSoto State Park

Paralleling Interstate 59, the Lookout Mountain Parkway follows the crest of Lookout Mountain for about one hundred miles. This scenic drive passes through DeSoto State Park. There are fifteen waterfalls within the park -- some large, some small. The largest is DeSoto Falls, a one hundred-foot waterfall, in the western section of the park along the West Fork of the Little River. The falls is easily accessible and is just below a dam and its resulting lake. From the entrance to DeSoto Park, go east on County Road 89 to CR 513. Follow signs to DeSoto Falls. (CONTINUE...)