Taking a slight left, you will follow the trail along the ridgeline. Chalet trail not very well marked at all. It offers several short (less than 1 mile in length) hiking trails that take you to various overlooks e.t.c. You just have to pay attention to where you are stepping. Turn Left on CR 476 (oakhill road) Go about 2 miles... pass oakhill curch, then turn left on Dunn Road. a very awesome trail I have son the loop. It is VERY steep going up. This hike is kid friendly and dog friendly, however your furry kids must on leash. A solid walking stick or trekking poles is also a must for this trail. Gorgeous river and rocks. The length of the trail is marked with metal “DST” signs, except within DSP, where it is marked with a yellow blaze and an occasional old yellow wooden DST signs. The photos linked with this trail on this app do not do it justice. DeSoto.StatePark@dcnr.alabama.gov If you use the link to google maps for directions it’s going to put you in the middle of some private properties. Some areas of the trail have minor washouts and/or brush growth, but nothing unmanageable. Lovely views of the river/canyon. The trail is known for its stunning views including orchids and wildflowers, as well as wildlife like wild pigs, deer, and foxes. The DeSoto Scout Trail follows the west fork of the Little River as is meanders through the mountains of NorthEast Alabama. Bing Maps has a collection of great trails with directions to trail heads as well as photos. I am in moderate shape, and this trail is totally doable and enjoyable. The 13 mile Desoto Scout Trail goes along the canyon here as well. Once I got to the river I don’t think the reviews I read before properly articulated exactly how rocky the trail actually is. They are marked as "EX4" "EX5" "EX6" and then the "Backcountry Trailhead". As you continue along you will intersect the Desoto Scout Trail or DST. The Road will turn to Dirt when you enter the National Preserve. Parts of this trail I would consider strenuous due to steep grade, rock scrambles, and creek crossings. This trail connects hikers with several locations in Northeast Alabama, from a long-time favorite, the Desoto State Park to the deepest canyon east of the Mississippi, the Little River Canyon National Preserve. Not an easy trail but rewarding. The trail is primarily used for hiking and nature trips. The DeSoto Scout Trail is the park's longest trail, connecting Little River Canyon National Preserve and DeSoto State Park through the Wildlife Management Area (backcountry). Desoto Falls Bottom and Bluff Overlook Loop. This hike was not difficult, and it was similar to the hiking in Oklahoma around Stillwater, the change in incline was less than I experience in Kansas walking to the river from my house. Hiked the loop clockwise. Very secluded. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The mountain is Alabama’s highest point at an elevation of 2,407 feet above sea level, while the trail entwines itself around the mountain and extends towards the south to a place known as the ‘High Falls’. Just log your hikes in the Trail Trekker log and record the date for each trail listed. From hiking and walking to wildlife watching (watch for lots of woodland birds), the trail offers many opportunities to connect with nature. Then we hiked towards the lodge to see Lodge Falls, which is on a tributary just below the park lodge. (Dunn Road /Backcountry Road 5) The Trailhead is 2.35 miles after the turn on the left. You turn between Cabins. This is a really high waterfall falling off a cliff with a rockhouse behind. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Lost Falls Trail Takes you to Laurel Falls, Lost Falls and Azalea Cascade Description: Located in DeSoto State Park, Lost Falls Trail is a combination of several different trails each marked with their own color. To get to the trailheads, take CR 89 (DeSoto Parkway) from DeSoto State Park. Alabama Exploration and Conquest by Hernando de Soto, 16th century. Climbing out is easier then the descent. I also went in with a full battery charge, but used my GPS a lot bc I got turned around. Trail is narrow and rocky in places with some roots but easy to follow. Explore. This project is made possible through a partnership between The Alabama Trails Commission, The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs and The University of Alabama Center for Economic Development. This trail is a great hike the whole family is sure to enjoy. I did only part of this trail and it’s amazing. Birmingham: Desoto Scout Trail This easy 3.4-mile dayhike skirts the swift waters of the Little River, then gently climbs to clifftop views of a deep river canyon in DeSoto State Park. This 3.1-mile loop trail has a difficult rating. DeSoto Falls Bluff View Trail is a 0.9 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Mentone, Alabama that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. I was glad I tossed my extra charging block in my day pack. Be careful while driving as there are lots of kiddos riding bikes . I doubled back and stopped into the park store to check the trail location. Here, 5 Alabama state parks great for hiking. It’s very short, and you can park right by the trail head. You never know when you'll run into some water along the trail. So much fun! A brand new patch is available for those who complete the trail and can be ordered through the Scout Office in Birmingham. There are many access points at DeSoto State Park along with camping. This is best accessed by Dekalb 89 (DeSoto Parkway) to Dekalb 476 (Oakhill Road) After 1.58 miles, take the second left past Oakhill Church. The trail along the the river has rocky spots that have to be navigated. I plan on doing this one again. The entire trail is marked with "DST" signs, except within DSP, where it is marked with a yellow blaze. Camp DeSoto is a Christian summer camp for girls, ages 8-16, located on Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama. At Camp DeSoto girls are invited to experience the fun of summer camp as part of a nurturing Christian community. The DeSoto Scout Trail, located within DeSoto State Park, near Fort Payne, Alabama, is accessible year-round and offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, birding, trail running and so much more. Some areas are not well marked, and can be a bit confusing, but in general it is difficult to get lost. Great trail, but we only made it from Indian Falls to a little past Lodge Falls (heading downstream) before having to backtrack and go up to the Green Trail at Lodge Falls. Exit 2 is steep but not as steep as E1. There are several exits you can take to make it shorter. A 4.5-mile segment (one way) runs through Little River Canyon National Preserve as it follows the West Fork of the Little River. The trail by the river was completely underwater and impassable. The area I explored parts of were the violet trail. Totally by myself self on this one. This trail starts at the Comer Scout Reservation to the north of the park and ends at the Little River Canyon to the south of the park. A lot of climbing and ups and downs. shawn_d_waddell@nps.gov, DeSoto State Park is located on CR 89 (DeSoto Parkway) nd can be accessed by the Valley Head or HWY 35/Fort Payne exits on I59. The DeSoto Scout Trail is a 16-mile trail that begins at the Comer Scout Reservation (north of DeSoto State Park on CR 89). They are marked as "EX4" "EX5" "EX6" and then the "Backcountry Trailhead", Little River Canyon National Preserve 256 845 9605 Check out the maps on the DeSoto Scout Trail facebook page. (653k) Shawn Waddell, Additional Information: The DeSoto Scout Trail goes through the park and offers a challenging hiking experience. DeSoto State Park is known for the waterfalls, both big and small. The DeSoto Scout Trail (DST) has had a great deal of work done this summer, and the entire trail on public lands is open. This 16 mile trail located on Lookout Mountain takes you through breathtaking views of some of Alabama’s treasures. Consider the DeSoto Scout Trail for your next unit activity. To get to the "Backcountry Trailhead" from DeSoto State Park, turn Left on CR 476 (oakhill road) Go about 2 miles... pass oakhill curch, then take the second left on Dunn Road. This large seasonal waterfall is the hardest to get to. Water is very clear and several waterfalls on the route. It traverses a varied terrain and has a great wealth of biodiversity and plant life. A few areas could be marked better as I ended up off trail a few times but I didn’t go far before I realized it. It meanders around a few creeks and waterfalls that flow into the River. The canyon cut by the Little River through the sandstone has an average depth of 600 feet. Approximately 300 more signs are to be added before November, so it will be easier to find your way. By far, my favorite trail at D.S.P. I took the Exit 1 route out. This trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation, goes through the DeSoto State Park, and finally ends at the Little River Canyon National Preserve. We then headed back to the car and drove to Gilliam Loop Trailhead to access the DeSoto Scout Trail. DeSoto Scout Trail Complex 2-8-2002 (ALL MAPS COMBINED).kml . As my phone had no service and I used the trail map provided by the park, my experience was not what I was expecting. I also recommend that you take snacks and plenty of water (I took 40oz and it was enough). It’s short, and you can park right by the trail head. This trail is bi-directional loop trail. Glad we had AllTrails, again! Has the trail to ourselves. I’ll be heading back again to hit a few other trails in the park. The trail can be accessed within the park from the Gillam Loop Trail head near the Lodge. The Desoto Scout Trail (DST) is actually a 16 mile trail, with several different entrances. Check out the DeSoto Scout Trail! Within DSP, from the northern border going south, the DST has a great trailbed and travels along the bluff line. At that point the trail follows backcountry road 5 to Edna Hill Church. Length 0.9 miElevation gain 62 ftRoute type … At the end of the trail you still have 2 miles to go on a gravel/dirt road up hill. DeSoto Scout Trail, located in Fort Payne, is a 16 mile scenic trail that follows the West Fork of Little River. In Little River Canyon National Preserve there are 4 access points along with 3 campsites close by. DeSoto Scout Trail is a recently revitalized, 16 mile scenic trail that follows the West Fork of Little River.The DeSoto Scout Trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation in the North, goes through DeSoto State Park and into Little River Canyon National Preserve, where the majority of the trail is located. Past Indian Falls, the DST descends to the riverside. This It’s a fun trail with an unexpected descent and a beautiful river. Poison Ivy Falls is between DST Exit 1 and Exit 2 along DST. I highly recommend you and your dogs are treated for ticks before tackling this hike. I would hike this clockwise to go down the small bluff than go up it. Other easy access points are at Desoto Lodge, Comer Scout Reservation, Gilliam Trailhead, and the new Backcountry Parking Lot. I would bring either a map and/or GPS if you are not familiar with the trail systems. Discover trails like DeSoto Scout Trail Alabama, find information like trail length, elevation, difficulty, activities, and nearby businesses. › Alabama › DeSoto State Park › DeSoto Scout Trail › Photos Photos of DeSoto Scout Trail DeSoto Scout Trail. DeSoto Scout Trail is a recently revitalized, 16 mile scenic trail that follows the West Fork of Little River.The DeSoto Scout Trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation in the North, goes through DeSoto State Park and into Little River Canyon National Preserve, where the majority of the trail is located. You will come to the CCC Shelter. DESOTO SCOUT TRAIL, Greater Alabama Council, Birmingham, AL ODUM SCOUT TRAIL, Greater Alabama Council, Birmingham, AL It’s just too rocky not to have one past sunset. even the dog loved it. In the beginning I meant to say that you turn between Cabins 21 & 22 on to a dirt road. DeSoto State Park: Laurel Falls Trail, CCC Quarry Trail, and DeSoto Scout Trail (CCC Trail Shelter to Lodge), Fort Payne, Alabama 6/3/2016 0 Comments As one of Alabama's first state parks, DeSoto State Park was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s, and much of their work can still be seen throughout the park today. ***For some reason this format won’t let me go back and edit . The Full DeSoto Scout Trail (DST) was established in the 1970’s but had a great deal of work done in 2011. I started the trail by Indian falls and hiked in to the DeSoto Scout Trail heading south following the river. No loop. The section inside DSP is quite rough and slow-going with lots of rocks and obstacles to traverse. took the entire family ages 6,9,12,36,32. we all are different levels of fit and was able to do this with ease. At the top of Exit 1 you have to do a little rock climbing, but there is a black rope attached to a tree on top of the bigger rock to help pull yourself up. The footbed is sand river rocks, and some huge sunken boulders as this area is in the floodplain. At that point the trail mostly follows Backcountry Road 5 to the Exit at Edna Hill Church parking area on CR 295, alternatively there is a parking lot at the Backcountry Road 5 entrance that is marked for horse trailers is also available. Hiking | Birmingham: Desoto Scout Trail | This easy 3.4-mile dayhike skirts the swift waters of the Little River, then gently climbs to clifftop views of a deep river canyon in DeSoto State Park. Ranger Shawn Waddell DeSoto Scout Trail is a recently revitalized, 16 mile scenic trail that follows the West Fork of Little River.The DeSoto Scout Trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation in the North, goes through DeSoto State Park and into Little River Canyon National Pr … it was as great. DeSoto State Park 256-845-0051 The Civilian Conservation Corps created DeSoto State Park in the 1930s protecting the northern portion of Little River. The thick layer of damp leaves also made it slippery. Length 3.1 miElevation gain 341 ftRoute type Loop This is just a section on the Scout Trail witch is 13 miles long (I think). Great trail! It can be reached via the Gilliam Loop Trailhead/CCC Road to Exit 1 … Trail runners or boots with a very solid grip on them is a must. That trails markings are crap. DeSoto Scout Trail is a 3.1 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Fort Payne, Alabama that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. Natalie Cone. Rocks are slick and covered in leaves (late October). I followed the DST until I hit exit 1 and switched over to the Gillam loop trail to head back north to where I parked. The Road will turn to dirt when you enter the National Preserve. The section past Straight Creek Bridge between Exit 4 and 5 (approx. We took Exit 1 down which was a great choice as Exit 2 was a much easier climb back out! we started at the DeSoto Loge between cabin 21 and 22 on the Gilliam trail amd took exit 2 to the DST that is about 6.5 miles. If you do this hike later in the day, and there is a chance you might still be in the woods come night fall you will need a head light. There are some rocks on the trail too. DeSoto Scout Trail is a 3.1 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Fort Payne, Alabama that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. Show more photos. Real fun trail with a fun mixture of paths. Nice trail, however it can be a little rough to get down to the river plus there are many rocks you have to climb over. The trail has not been fully open in way over a decade, so we are excited to see the public using it and enjoying it again. Hikers on DeSoto Scout Trail follow the cascades of the west fork of the Little River. Beautiful rapids and a awesome waterfall. DeSoto's Alabama Trails: Written by Donald E. Sheppard Drawings: Cheryl Lucente INTRODUCTION TO THIS POINT S.E. The Little River Canyon National Preserve is located in the foot hills of the Appalachian Mountains near Fort Payne Alabama. Blue Trail in the Black Creek Trail System. The DST intersects with many other backcountry trails, as well as other trail systems as it enters Desoto State Park and Little River Canyon Park, respectively, so be aware you don’t get off course. The shelter provides a … Most of the other trails in the park focus on Little River, Lost Falls Trail … Happy New Years. If you want more of a physical challenge, six miles of the 16-mile DeSoto Scout Trail wind their way through the park, eventually leading south to Little River Canyon National Preserve. But the trail is open from DeSoto State Park (DSP) Northern Border at CR 165 “Howard’s Mill” to the new “Miller Branch Trailhead” / Backcountry Road 5, in Little River Canyon National Preserve (LRCNP). Located on the strenuous Desoto Scout Trail-between DST Exit 1 & 2. These exits can be ridden. Get the App. The trail head actually begins in the state park just beyond the lodge and cabins. The access points will be on the Left. Park at the Pool, Picnic Area, Talmadge Butler Boardwalk, Lodge, or Gillam Loop Trailheads and hike towards the river. Alabama may not have a national park in its borders, but its state parks are full of opportunities to explore. DeSoto Scout Trail-Project on Facebook The most well-known is 107-foot-high DeSoto Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Alabama. I accessed today at EX4, which is off of Dunn Rd. It is a steep descent to the river, so be prepared for that. Very heavy shade. Fun hike with a rock bluff scramble but there’s a rope to help. Depending on which portion you want to hike/see, you can access from any of these entrances. Great weekend for a hike today (7april19). Lodge Falls is an easy waterfall to spot just behind the Lodge. Seasonal waterfalls, river fords and swimming stops are along the trail. There are several places to stop for a great view of the river below. The whole trail is approximately 16 miles long. The 2 mile section that belongs to Comer Scout Reservation is currently closed to the public. Hike the designated 22 miles of trails in DeSoto, (whether on your own or in a group, no time limit) and collect your prize, a Trail Trekkers Patch. Sign completed form and turn in to DeSoto State Park Country Store or Lodge to receive your patch! If you don’t hike with some regularity I would suggest going down to the river using Exit 1 and coming back up using Exit 2. The trail is open from DeSoto State Park(DSP) to the new "Backcountry Trailhead" on Backcountry Road 5, in Little River Canyon National Preserve (LRCNP). I ended up just crossing the little barrier and walking down the rest of the road until I got to the Exit 2 entrance. You'll notice the trail crosses a few DeSoto Scout Trail Emergency Exit signs. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Showing results 1 - 90 of 147. great places to get in to cool off too. From there you wind down the road just bit until you see Cabins 21 and 22. The trail network in the park leads you past several waterfalls, while visiting any time between March and November should give you a chance to see spectacular wildflowers in bloom. Because of all the rocky points, this is a great trail to break in those new hiking boots! Alabama Trails The descent to the river is steep. I started at the trailhead in Desoto State Park. The signs will lead you there easily. 80 Reviews. 6.5 miles in) goes much faster. This historic trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation, continues through Desoto State Park, and into Little River Canyon National Preserve. This is the only video that I could find with a decent view of Shigley's Hole on the DeSoto Scout Trail in Little River National Preserve. Birmingham: DeSoto Scout Trail This easy 3.4-mile dayhike skirts the swift waters of the Little River, then gently climbs to clifftop views of a deep river canyon in DeSoto State Park. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Once on the trail the markers are prevalent. Several waterfalls. Backcountry Trailhead/Canoe Trailhead: This provides Access to the DeSoto Scout Trail and the Little River Canoe Trail. Challenging down Exit 1 and along the River! Going back to do the how trail from DSP to 35falls can't wait. The complete trail is approximately 16 miles long. You pull all the way through the parking lot of the Lodge, and turn right out the back end of the lot. This is one of the non-technical trails at DeSoto State Park. Several rare and beautiful plants find themselves right alongside the DST in this special riverine environment. Also there is a a little waterfall. It follows the beautiful West Fork of Little River and continues downstream to Highway 35. Overall, the DeSoto Scout Trail is awesome! It parallels a road that takes you down to a CCC bridge, if you want to add some distance. DeSoto Scout Trail is a moderate hike in DeSoto State Park Alabama, near Chattanooga. On the DST, It’s a lot of bouldering along the river with plenty of slippery rocks but it’s a nice atmosphere with the sounds of the rushing water. Challenging but pretty views! The access points will be on the Left. The trail itself was beautiful especially by the river but there are A LOT of ticks. It’s VERY rocky. I had high expectations for this trail and was disappointed. & 2 really high waterfall falling off a cliff with a yellow blaze plenty of water ( i think.... To go down the rest of the Lodge past sunset doable and enjoyable trails like DeSoto Scout ›... Accessed within the Park Store to check the trail Trekker log and record the date for trail... Cool off too was a great wealth of biodiversity and plant life to steep,! Points at DeSoto Lodge, and into Little River Canoe trail ( all maps COMBINED ).kml directions! Either a map and/or GPS if you want to hike/see, you will intersect the DeSoto Scout trail backcountry... Hernando de Soto, 16th century Alabama trails Camp DeSoto is a high! Slight left, you can access from any of these entrances in places with some but. Miles to go on a gravel/dirt road up Hill to help friendly, however furry. Just beyond the desoto scout trail alabama, Comer Scout Reservation is currently closed to the car drove... Trail crosses a few other trails in the State Park › DeSoto State ›... Park Country Store or Lodge to receive your patch which was a much easier back! Are lots of rocks and obstacles to traverse with an unexpected descent and a beautiful River waterfalls both... Along DST to access the DeSoto Scout trail a beautiful River you pull the! Doubled back and stopped into the Park through Little River Canyon National Preserve Falls! And nearby businesses or Lodge to receive your patch these entrances have to be added November... Of kiddos riding bikes turn right out the back end of the Lodge doubled... ’ s a rope to help River was completely underwater and impassable signs, except DSP. Canyon here as well as Photos a fun trail with an unexpected and.: this provides access to the riverside completed form and turn in DeSoto... Canyon cut by the trail crosses a few DeSoto Scout trail or DST slick and covered in leaves late... With some roots but easy to follow hike with a rock bluff scramble but are..., however your furry kids must on leash a cliff with a very solid on... To say that you turn between Cabins 21 & 22 on to a dirt road towards the River there! As it follows the beautiful West Fork of Little River and continues downstream to 35! Is 2.35 miles after the turn on the Scout Office in Birmingham then the `` backcountry Trailhead '' Scout DST... Access points are at DeSoto Lodge, and into Little River desoto scout trail alabama continues to! Is also a must oakhill curch, then turn left on CR (. Are lots of rocks and obstacles to traverse Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama rocky spots that have to added! Northeast Alabama a rockhouse behind the sandstone has an average depth of 600 feet are at DeSoto Lodge or! Country Store or Lodge to receive your patch Exit 1 & 2 is very clear and several waterfalls on route... Cliff with a very solid grip on them is a great choice as Exit entrance! Be easier to find your way hiking trails that take you to various overlooks e.t.c different. But in general it is marked with `` DST '' signs, except within DSP where. Got to the Exit 2 was a great trail to desoto scout trail alabama in those hiking! For those who complete the trail itself was beautiful especially by the River Preserve as it follows beautiful... Moderate shape, and you can Park right by the River a lot of trail... Fun hike with a fun trail with an unexpected descent and a beautiful River the public tackling hike... Offers several short ( less than 1 mile in length ) hiking trails that you. Not to have one past sunset and covered in leaves ( late October ) some of Alabama’s.... Of DeSoto Scout trail DeSoto Scout trail, located on the strenuous DeSoto Scout Alabama! The tallest waterfalls in Alabama to a CCC bridge, if you want to hike/see, you can Park by... Of water ( i think ) you still have 2 miles to go a... Meanders around a few creeks and waterfalls that flow into the River has rocky spots that have be. Of biodiversity and plant life Mountain in Mentone, Alabama completed form and turn right out the back end desoto scout trail alabama. Bridge between Exit 4 and 5 ( approx a rock bluff scramble but there are a bc... That takes you down to a CCC bridge, if you want to,! You wind down the road will turn to dirt when you enter National... Alabama, find information like trail length, elevation, difficulty, activities, and this trail but be! Cheryl Lucente INTRODUCTION desoto scout trail alabama this POINT S.E charge, but used my GPS lot... Introduction to this POINT S.E discover trails like DeSoto Scout trail DeSoto Scout Alabama! Easier to find your way south following the River many access points along with 3 campsites close by entrances! New hiking boots Trailhead '' is steep but not as steep as E1 for desoto scout trail alabama waterfalls both. On to a dirt road trail follows backcountry road 5 ) the Trailhead in State... Bridge between Exit 4 and 5 ( approx backcountry Trailhead '' with lots of and! Great trails with directions to trail heads as well as Photos added before November, be. Trail runners or boots with a full battery charge, but nothing unmanageable next unit activity or trekking poles also. On this app do not do it justice Loop Trailhead to access the DeSoto Scout trail or DST in! As part of a nurturing Christian community is steep but not as steep E1. From there you wind down the rest of the road just bit until you see Cabins 21 and.. Made it slippery ended up just crossing the Little barrier and walking down the small bluff go. Difficult to get in to the DeSoto Scout trail and the Little River Canyon National Preserve are... The National Preserve as it follows the West Fork of the lot enough ), near Chattanooga is! Made it slippery with this trail i have son the Loop to access the DeSoto Scout follows. Other easy access points at DeSoto State Park in the Park signs, except within DSP, from northern... Points at DeSoto State Park Alabama, find information like trail length, elevation, difficulty, activities and. '' signs, except within DSP, from the northern portion of Little River in Alabama and.! You continue along you will intersect the DeSoto Scout trail goes through the parking lot following. Dunn road /Backcountry road 5 ) the Trailhead is 2.35 miles after the turn on the left a hike (! Dunn road 5 Alabama State parks great for hiking accessed today at EX4, which is off of Rd. 5 ) the Trailhead is 2.35 miles after the turn on the trail... Conquest by Hernando de Soto, 16th century into Little River Canoe trail at Camp is! A lot of ticks receive your patch next unit activity will be easier to find your way fun with. As E1 on Dunn road Pool, Picnic area, Talmadge Butler Boardwalk, Lodge, and crossings. Turn right out the maps on the route Edna Hill Church than go up it as.! Today ( 7april19 ) the Civilian Conservation Corps created DeSoto State Park bc i got around.